This is the primary contact doctor. He or she will help you to coordinate all of your team members. It is important that you choose someone who is willing to be a team player. Internists often have a specialty such as endocrinology. Doctors may also be board-certified in family medicine. Physicians Assistants (PA-C) and Nurse Practitioners (NP, APRN) may also fill this role.
Gynecologist/Obstetrician
A gynecologist is a specialist in the female reproductive system. An obstetrician specializes in pregnancy and labor. An Ob/Gyn is an important team member whether the patient is trying to conceive or not.
Health CoachA health coach is a wellness authority and mentor who motivates individuals to cultivate positive health choices. Health coaches educate and support clients to achieve their health goals through lifestyle and behavior adjustments. As more credence is given to preventative care, health coaching is seen as a vital aspect of creating healthy lifestyle changes. Health coaches are becoming increasingly recognized as essential to a person’s health and well-being.
Dietitian, Licensed Nutritionist, Holistic Nutritionist, CNS, CCN, CNP,RDNutrition professionals are trained to give reliable recommendations on nutrition. Whether or not the PCOS patient is overweight, this element is critical and cannot be overemphasized. A good dietitian will help patients make important changes to their diets as they become mindful eaters. They may also lend support in education and offer accountability.
Psychologist (Ph.D., Psy.D, DBH), Psychiatrist (MD), Licensed Professional CounselorThese professionals can help with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, relationship or work stresses, and body image issues. The mind and body are inextricably connected. Having a healthy mind is important to keeping a healthy body.
Endocrinologist or Reproductive Endocrinologist
An endocrinologist is a specialist in hormonal disorders and the endocrine system, which includes the thyroid, pancreas, pituitary, ovaries, and adrenal glands. Since PCOS is a disorder of this system, this doctor will lend important perspective and suggestions. This person is particularly important if diabetes or thyroid dysfunction is an issue. A reproductive endocrinologist specializes in reproductive hormones and fertility. They may be able to help a PCOS patient become pregnant and see her through the first trimester.
Naturopath (ND)
Naturopathic physicians attend four years of residential naturopathic medical school and are trained as primary care givers. They focus on disease prevention and wellness by combining traditional treatments with modern evidence-based scientific studies. They are able to perform minor surgeries and prescribe prescription drugs in a few states, but these are typically last resorts. Treatment relies primarily on nutrition, acupuncture, detoxification, lifestyle modifications, supplements, and natural medicines.
Chiropractor (DC)Chiropractic physicians focus on the structure and function of the spine and its effects on the musculoskeletal and neurological systems. This is a drug-free approach to health care. These practitioners may also offer guidance in nutrition and lifestyle.
Acupuncturist (LAc, DAc, M.Ac., AP, DOM)
Acupuncture is one of the oldest healing methods in the world. Typically, it involves penetrating the skin with thin needles to ease pain or alleviate various other health conditions. The National Institute of Health notes that use of acupuncture as an alternative or complementary method of healing is on the rise.
Traditional Chinese MedicineAcupuncture and herbal remedies are the primary tools of this professional. The purpose of acupuncture is to balance the body’s natural energy to release endorphins, increase circulation, and stimulate the nervous system. Diet, exercise and lifestyle modifications are typically important elements of this treatment.