The 4 types of PCOS and how Acupuncture might support your diagnosis
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. PCOS is not a “one-size-fits-all” diagnosis. In fact, there are several different types of PCOS, each with unique symptoms. This is why pursuing a holistic healing modality like acupuncture and Chinese medicine is so important. We treat YOU, the person, not just the diagnosis. Understanding your specific type of PCOS is the first step in implementing a treatment plan that supports YOUR unique body. Read on and see which type most resonates with your own experience with PCOS.
Insulin-Resistant PCOS
This type of PCOS is considered the most common and occurs when the body has trouble using insulin effectively - leading to a rise in blood sugar. This rise may cause the ovaries to produce more androgens such as testosterone, A4 and DHEA
Common signs:
Sugar cravings and energy crashes, feeling sleepy after meals
Weight gain (especially around the middle, often referred to as ‘hormone belly’), difficulty shifting excess weight
Irregular cycles or missed periods, absence of ovulation
Acne and excess hair growth (hirsutism)
Inflammatory PCOS
Chronic inflammation can interfere with ovulation and hormone balance. This type is often linked to gut health, food sensitivities, and environmental triggers. Endometriosis or auto-immune factors may also be present.
Common signs:
Digestive issues (bloating, IBS-type symptoms)
Skin problems such as eczema or psoriasis
Fatigue and “brain fog”
Irregular periods, painful periods
Frequent headaches, migraines or joint pain
Adrenal PCOS
For some women, PCOS symptoms are driven by the adrenal glands, which respond to chronic stress by producing excess stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline as well as androgens such as DHEA.
Common signs:
High stress or anxiety
Fatigue that worsens with stress
Normal insulin and inflammation markers but high DHEA and morning cortisol
Irregular cycles
Puffy face or ‘moon face’
Feeling wired at night, difficulty falling or staying asleep, waking tired.
Post-Pill PCOS
This can occur after stopping hormonal birth control as the ovaries may take some time to re-establish their rhythm.
Common signs:
Irregular or absent cycles after stopping the pill
Acne flare-ups
Oily skin or hair
Changes in mood or energy
Additional factors
Thyroid health also plays a huge role in a PCOS diagnosis so I always advise investigating your thyroid function with a full thyroid panel if you have symptoms like thinning hair, losing hair from the outer eyebrows, dry skin, constipation, and difficulty shifting weight.
Environmental and lifestyle factors like poor sleep hygiene, excessive screen time and blue-light exposure or over exposure to chemical-laden skin and haircare, perfumes and even household products can all impact the endocrine system and disrupt hormone balance exacerbating PCOS symptoms.
Why Identifying Your PCOS Type Matters
Because the root cause differs, so does the approach to care. For example, lifestyle and diet changes that target blood sugar may benefit insulin-resistant PCOS, while stress reduction and adrenal support are key for alleviating the symptoms of adrenal PCOS.
Holistic therapies, including acupuncture and Chinese medicine, may play a role in supporting hormone regulation, stress balance, and cycle health as part of a personalised plan for your unique body.
Next Steps
If you’re navigating PCOS, remember you don’t have to figure it out alone. As an AHPRA-registered acupuncturist on the Gold Coast, I provide personalised women’s health support, combining acupuncture with lifestyle and Chinese medicine strategies to help you achieve better hormone health, naturally.
