September is PCOS Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on a condition that impacts nearly 1 in 10 women of reproductive age in the U.S. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is not only one of the most common hormonal disorders but also a leading cause of infertility. Despite its prevalence, PCOS is often under diagnosed and misunderstood, leaving many women struggling with symptoms such as irregular cycles, weight gain, acne, excess hair growth, and mood changes without clear solutions.
Understanding PCOS Beyond Fertility
While PCOS is frequently discussed in the context of fertility, its impact goes far beyond reproduction. PCOS is associated with:
- Insulin Resistance
- Metabolic Dysfunction
- Inflammation
- Hormonal imbalance.
Left unaddressed, these issues can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mental health concerns.
At Refine by Tulsi, we’ve walked this journey ourselves, and that’s why we know how best to treat you with the compassion and expertise you deserve.
When Traditional Treatments Fall Short
For many women, the standard medical approach to PCOS often involves birth control pills, metformin, or fertility medications. While these treatments may help regulate cycles or manage blood sugar in the short term, they don’t always address the underlying root causes of PCOS.
Patients frequently come to us after years of:
- Frustration with weight gain that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise
- Unwanted side effects from hormonal medications
- Persistent fatigue, acne, or hair growth despite conventional treatment
- Difficulty conceiving, even after trying fertility drugs
Are You Taking Metformin for PCOS?
Metformin is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for PCOS, especially to address insulin resistance. While it can be effective for blood sugar control, many women notice new symptoms like fatigue, low energy, or brain fog once they start taking it.
We often hear patients say, “I thought the exhaustion was just part of PCOS, but it actually started after I began metformin.” This is a common story – and one we take seriously.
One reason is that metformin can impact the mitochondria – the tiny powerhouses of your cells that generate energy. When mitochondrial function slows down, you may feel tired, sluggish, or even notice changes in your metabolism.
This cycle of trial and error leaves many women feeling like their concerns are dismissed or that they must simply “live with it.” At Refine by Tulsi, we believe women deserve more than symptom management – they deserve personalized, root-cause solutions.
How Integrative Medicine Bridges the Gap
Integrative medicine approaches go beyond prescriptions to focus on metabolic health, hormone balance, and whole-body wellness. By combining innovative therapies like GLP-1 microdosing, peptide protocols, nutritional support, and regenerative medicine, we create comprehensive, evidence-based plans tailored to each patient’s needs.
This approach is designed not only to improve symptoms but also to help women:
- Restore hormonal balance naturally
- Improve metabolism and energy
- Support fertility potential
- Enhance long-term health outcomes
That’s why integrative approaches go deeper than symptom management – it addresses the root causes to help patients feel better from the inside out.
Innovative, Integrative Treatments for PCOS
GLP-1 medications (such as Semaglutide and Tirzepatide) are best known for supporting weight loss and improving blood sugar control. For women with PCOS, GLP-1 microdosing protocols may help:
- Improve insulin sensitivity
- Support weight management
- Reduce cravings and appetite swings
- Enhance metabolic health
By using microdoses tailored to each patient, we can minimize side effects while targeting one of the key drivers of PCOS – insulin resistance.
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as signaling molecules in the body. Specific peptides can target inflammation, hormonal regulation, and metabolic health – all areas where PCOS patients often need support. Examples include:
- BPC-157: Known for reducing inflammation and aiding tissue healing.
- CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin: May support growth hormone balance, sleep quality, and body composition.
Peptide Therapies are designed to complement lifestyle and nutrition strategies, giving women additional tools to manage PCOS symptoms naturally.
- Nutritional & Lifestyle Medicine
Food is medicine – especially with PCOS. We emphasize anti-inflammatory and low-glycemic approaches to eating, alongside targeted supplementation (such as inositol, vitamin D, and omega-3s). Lifestyle strategies including stress management, sleep optimization, and movement are equally critical in supporting hormone balance.
- Regenerative & Wellness Therapies
Beyond traditional approaches, we also integrate therapies that support overall vitality and cellular health, including:
- IV Therapy (nutrient replenishment to support energy and metabolic balance)
- NAD+ Support (for mitochondrial function and anti-aging benefits)
- Hormone Optimization (when clinically appropriate, under physician guidance)
Take the Next Step
If you’ve been struggling with symptoms of PCOS – or suspect you may have it – know that you are not alone. September is the perfect time to take the first step in prioritizing your health.
At Refine by Tulsi, every treatment plan is physician-led and personalized. Our team led by Dr. Tulsi Kotecha (Medical Director & Founder) and Dr. Luara Ruof (Head of Longevity & Performance), don’t believe in one-size-fits-all care – especially for complex conditions like PCOS. Our goal is to help women reclaim their energy, restore balance, and feel confident in their skin.
Schedule your consultation today at Refine by Tulsi in Chicago’s Logan Square and Lincoln Park.