PCOS Explained

Latest Episodes:

Managing PCOS during the holiday season Nov 21, 2024

It’s the most wonderful time of the year... but also can feel like a tricky one when you’re managing PCOS!

Today, we’re revisiting a previous episode all about how to best manage your PCOS during the holiday season. In this episode, Clare and Emma share practical tips to help you stay on track and make sustainable changes during the festive season.

They dive into managing PCOS during the holidays, covering everything from planning and navigating temptations to making mindful food choices and sticking to your non-negotiables.

The episode highlights how small, realistic changes—guided by the 80/20 rule—can lead to lasting results. Consistency, not perfection, is key. By learning to find balance during this busy season, you'll gain the tools to create balance all year long.

Whether you're managing PCOS or simply aiming to make healthier choices this holiday season, this episode offers actionable advice to help you enjoy the holidays guilt-free.

Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

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Why one size doesn’t fit all: Naomi's PCOS journey Nov 12, 2024

Join Clare in today’s episode as she chats with Ovie community member Naomi about her personal journey with PCOS.

Diagnosed at 27 after years of unexplained symptoms and fertility struggles, Naomi opens up about the rollercoaster of challenges she faced—from irregular periods and weight gain to chronic fatigue.

Throughout our conversation, Naomi offers fantastic tips for managing PCOS, emphasizing the importance of personalized treatment and making lifestyle changes. She also highlights the value of community support and encourages listeners to approach medical advice with a healthy dose of skepticism.

Tune in for a dose of hope and empowerment!
Take theOvie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

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Part 2. Everyone's breastfeeding experience is different (real stories from our community) Nov 05, 2024

Welcome to part two of our breastfeeding experiences podcast — sharing real stories from our community.

After sharing her personal breastfeeding journey, Clare received numerous messages from women concerned about facing similar challenges. Inspired by these conversations, Clare is dedicating this week’s episode to exploring the diverse experiences of breastfeeding.

In this episode, PCOS Explained host and Ovie Founder, Clare, presents a collection of stories from different women, each sharing their unique breastfeeding journeys. Drawing from her own experience of breastfeeding her daughter and navigating a low milk supply, Clare aims to challenge common misconceptions and provide a broad spectrum of perspectives.

We’ll delve into the realities of breastfeeding, discuss various risk factors, and emphasise the importance of being prepared for different outcomes. This episode offers valuable insights and support to women preparing for breastfeeding.

A special thank you to our guests: Samantha, Naomi and Belinda for sharing their stories with us!

Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hormonal birth control and weight gain Oct 29, 2024

In today’s episode, we revisit an important conversation that resonates with many listeners: the connection between hormonal birth control and weight gain.

Join Clare, the host of PCOS Explained, as she dives deep into the nuances of hormonal contraceptives. We’ll explore the historical context of these concerns and break down the various types of contraceptives— from combined pills and progestin-only options to implants and IUDs.

Through a careful examination of current studies, Clare analyses the potential weight changes associated with different contraceptive methods. Clare will discuss how these options can not only regulate menstrual cycles but also influence factors such as ovulation, androgen levels, cortisol, and insulin resistance.

Our goal with this episode is to empower you with knowledge and insights, encouraging you to reflect on your own experiences and make informed choices about your health.

Tune in and join the conversation!
Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

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Demanding a diagnosis: Elizabeth's path to reversing PCOS Oct 22, 2024

In this inspiring episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Elizabeth Nash, an Ovie community member, who shares her remarkable journey of reversing PCOS.

Despite being told by her doctor that she didn’t exhibit typical symptoms of PCOS, Elizabeth trusted her instincts and advocated for herself, ultimately securing a proper diagnosis.

Faced with the option to return to the contraceptive pill, Elizabeth sought a more sustainable approach to managing her symptoms. By immersing herself in learning—through our podcast and following the protocol—she made small, incremental changes that significantly improved her condition.

Join us as Elizabeth reflects on her journey from feeling overwhelmed by dietary restrictions to embracing an 80/20 lifestyle approach.
Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

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There is no "typical" PCOS Oct 08, 2024

One of the most common concerns we hear in our discovery calls is that people are unsure if they have PCOS because their symptoms don’t match what they believe to be typical.

In today’s episode, Clare and Emma dive into the misconception of a “typical” PCOS patient, highlighting that PCOS presents differently in everyone.

They explore the various symptoms of PCOS, such as weight gain, hair growth, and menstrual cycle irregularities, and how these can present in different ways. They emphasise that PCOS symptoms do not follow a predictable pattern. Additionally, they discuss genetic factors, hormonal profiles, and the importance of lifestyle modifications.

This episode stresses that, regardless of the symptoms you experience, effective PCOS management isn’t just about weight loss but involves a holistic approach to overall health and well-being.
Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

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Doing more doesn’t always equal better results… Oct 01, 2024

When it comes to managing our health, we're often told that doing more is better. However, in the realm of PCOS, this isn't always the case. Overdoing it with numerous changes, supplements, and intense exercise might actually be counterproductive. Sometimes, doing less can be the key to better results.

In today’s episode, Clare and Emma explore why more is not always better in managing PCOS. They discuss the pitfalls of overloading on changes, supplements, and exercise, and introduce the bell curve theory of health, which highlights the importance of balance and avoiding extremes.

Through their personal experiences and clinical insights, they emphasise the effectiveness of concentrating on a few core habits and making them sustainable over time. The episode also covers the psychological aspects of behaviour change, the significance of manageable lifestyle adjustments, and the misconception of perfectionism in health.

Join Clare and Emma for practical advice on achieving sustainable PCOS management by focusing on balanced and consistent lifestyle changes.
Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Everyone’s breastfeeding experience is different: real stories from our community Sep 11, 2024

In this episode, PCOS Explained host and Ovie Founder, Clare, presents a collection of stories from different women, each sharing their unique breastfeeding journeys. Drawing from her own experience of breastfeeding her daughter and navigating a low milk supply, Clare aims to challenge common misconceptions and provide a broad spectrum of perspectives.

We’ll delve into the realities of breastfeeding, discuss various risk factors, and emphasize the importance of being prepared for different outcomes. This episode offers valuable insights and support to women preparing for breastfeeding.

A special thank you to our guests: Steph Wrathall, Lucy Duncan, Isabel Moratiel, and Fannie Cai, for sharing their stories with us.
Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

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Fed is best! Breastfeeding insights from Clare's journey Sep 04, 2024

In this episode, Ovie’s Senior Nutritionist, Emma sits down with PCOS Explained Host and Ovie Founder, Clare to discuss the challenges and realities of breastfeeding, especially for those with PCOS.

Societal pressures around breastfeeding can be overwhelming, and starting this journey often comes with a lot of stress and confusion. While breastfeeding is a wonderful option for many, it's not the right fit for everyone. Clare opens up about her personal experiences with low milk supply and how her PCOS influenced her breastfeeding journey.

The conversation dives into the latest research on PCOS and breastfeeding, exploring the impact of hormonal imbalances, and identifying potential red flags during pregnancy. Clare offers valuable insights for mothers facing similar challenges and emphasises the importance of support, regardless of your feeding choices.

Tune in for an honest and supportive discussion that highlights the need for compassion and understanding in the diverse experiences of motherhood.
Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

All about testosterone: a deep dive into PCOS Aug 28, 2024

Welcome to this week’s episode of PCOS Explained! In today’s conversation, Clare and Emma take a deep dive into one of the most commonly misunderstood aspects of PCOS—testosterone. They aim to clarify what testosterone is, how it impacts women with PCOS, and to debunk some of the most persistent myths surrounding this hormone.

In this episode, we explore:

Understanding Testosterone: Explore the role of testosterone in both male and female bodies.
Common Misconceptions: Discover and debunk widespread myths about testosterone and its effects.
Diagnosing PCOS: Learn how testosterone levels are linked to PCOS diagnosis.
Impact of Imbalance: Understand how an imbalance in testosterone can contribute to PCOS symptoms.
Blood Test Accuracy: Find out why blood tests may not always accurately reflect testosterone's activity.
Age and Hormonal Contraception: Examine how age and hormonal contraception affect testosterone levels.
Physiological Differences: Highlight the differences in androgen response between males and females.
Treatment Options: Get insights into various treatment options for managing high testosterone levels.

Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been managing PCOS for years, tune in to gain a clearer understanding of testosterone’s role and its impact on PCOS.

Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.
Linked podcasts:

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Understanding Ovulation: It’s time to be more in tune with your body! Aug 14, 2024

In today's episode, Clare and Emma delve deep into the topic of ovulation, exploring the importance of understanding when you are ovulating, regardless of whether you are trying to conceive, avoid pregnancy, or become more in tune with your body.

Ovulation is something we should’ve been taught at school, but weren’t! And as a result, there are many common misconceptions, such as the assumption that all women ovulate on day 14 of their cycle. In today’s episode, Clare and Emma unpack these common misconceptions and reveal why methods like ovulation predictor kits and certain apps may not be reliable, especially for women with PCOS.

The episode emphasises the significance of being in tune with one’s body and highlights how identifying ovulation accurately can provide valuable insights into your health and fertility.

In this podcast we'll be diving into:

The phases of the menstrual cycle and explaining hormone fluctuations
The importance of ovulation
Challenges with PCOS and ovulation
Common misconceptions and tracking methods

Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Isabel’s real and raw story: from overcoming food obsession and missing periods, to pregnancy and feeling in control! Jul 31, 2024

Do you find yourself thinking about food all day long, believing it's just the norm? Isabel thought so too until she learned more about her PCOS.

Isabel took part in our programme to improve her relationship with food, manage her weight, and understand why all her exercising was pushing her in the wrong direction.

She found inner peace through the programme and felt so free after letting go of many things that had been taking over her life.

*TW (miscarriage): After just a few months of the changes, Isabel started getting her regular periods, and shortly after, she became pregnant. However, it wasn't all that straightforward due to low progesterone levels during her first pregnancy.

This in-depth conversation with Isabel about her pregnancy and breastfeeding experiences delves into the raw and real details that many people go through but don't talk about enough! We thank Isabel for being so open with us during this conversation and simply love her positive attitude and energy. We're taking notes on this one, and we hope you can take something from it too.
*Trigger warning - please be aware this episode contains conversation about miscarriages.
Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

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The power of a good night’s sleep: navigating sleep disruption with PCOS Jul 24, 2024

When it comes to staying healthy, we're often told it's all about diet and exercise. But here's the scoop: sleep plays a huge role too, especially for those dealing with PCOS.

In this week’s episode of PCOS Explained, Clare and Emma sit down to delve into the topic of sleep, particularly focusing on sleep disruption in individuals with PCOS. Their conversation highlights the power of a good night’s sleep.

The discussion stems from an article Clare wrote for Stylist Magazine and explores different manifestations of sleep disturbances including difficulty falling asleep, waking up in the middle of the night, and that frustrating feeling of not being rested even after a full night's sleep.

The episode addresses potential causes such as circadian rhythm disruptions, high stress hormones, low blood sugar levels, and sleep-disordered breathing like sleep apnea. It also delves into the interplay between insulin resistance, hormone imbalances, and their effects on sleep quality.
Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

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Becoming friends with her PCOS: Aimee's story Jul 10, 2024

In this week’s episode of PCOS Explained, host Clare sits down with Aimee, a member of the Ovie community, as she candidly shares her journey with PCOS.

Aimee’s story began in her early 20s and is a testament to resilience, strength, and acceptance. Like many navigating PCOS, Aimee has encountered a spectrum of symptoms—from weight gain to hair growth and reactive hypoglycemia—which she refers to as her different PCOS ‘eras’. Throughout these eras, Aimee has demonstrated remarkable adaptability and resilience, embracing each era with a mindset of befriending her PCOS.

In her conversation, Aimee delves into her experiences with medications such as Metformin, Zoloft, and Ozempic, discussing both their benefits and side effects. She also reflects on the life challenges she’s confronted along the way and their impact on her overall health and wellness.

Today, Aimee focuses on cultivating a balanced lifestyle by focusing on the way her habits and actions make her feel. She emphasises the importance of body neutrality, prioritising mental health, and finding joy in daily activities. Aimee’s approach to her PCOS journey is not only refreshing but also deeply inspiring.
Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

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Are you feeling unsupported on your PCOS journey? May 22, 2024

In this week’s podcast episode, PCOS Explained host and Ovie Founder, Clare Goodwin, sits down to talk with Ovie Senior Nutritionist, Emma Wylie, to unpack how the right kind of support in your PCOS journey can be critical to your long term symptom management.

Too often we meet patients who feel completely unsupported.
Failed by their healthcare providers, misunderstood by dieticians, not heard by their doctors, broken down by diet after diet only to still feel at square one with their symptom management.
In this discussion real life case studies are explored from patients Clare and Emma have worked with, to offer insights and strategies to help and empower you on your PCOS journey.
Topics discussed in this episode:

Understanding your path to successful weight loss
Acne and hirsutism medication guidance
Balancing the goals of fertility and weight loss

Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.

Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Falling pregnant within 3 months by making the lifestyle changes that matter: Cindy's story May 16, 2024

When we are first diagnosed with PCOS we are often lead to believe that 'you will struggle to get pregnant', and we hear this time and time again. But, is this really the case?
We spoke with our patient, Cindy about her experience with getting diagnosed in her late 20's, struggling to conceive then proceeding to fall pregnant naturally (a month before she was due to start fertility treatment!).
Cindy is a doer and knew she had to take charge as soon as she got diagnosed which lead her to find the programme. She started learning immediately what was going on with her body and everything became so much clearer and she started seeing results within the first few days!
In this podcast we cover:

Understanding how to deal with PCOS and fertility struggles
How lifestyle adjustments, and tailored interventions can lead to conception
The value of specialized care and what to look for in a doctor

We understand that too much information at once can be overwhelming which is why we created Ovie, to take you through step-by-step exactly what is right for you and your PCOS. Sign up to Ovie, receive your personalized PCOS management plan, start working on yourself and see results within days.
Ready to start your journey? Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.
Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

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Even this doctor struggled to get her PCOS under control, and what did help May 16, 2024

In this gritty conversation, Clare interviews Dr Stephanie, a physician who shares her personal and professional journey dealing with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

Stephanie shares incredible advice around how we should view our doctors or primary care providers' advice on our own health journey, and how it ultimately is our own decision about the steps we move forward with.
Stephanie also shares with us great tips for how to advocate for ourselves with a diagnosis, or how to feel confident seeking multiple perspectives from different physicians.
Stephanie shares her journey of as she puts it - sciencing the sh*t out of her PCOS - to help her make informed decisions when it came to her health.
Regular bleeds but irregular cycles are discussed (yes, there is a difference!), as well as dealing with unexplained weight gain and difficulties losing weight and POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) are just some of the juicy topics covered in this podcast.
Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.
Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I wish I knew this at the start of my PCOS journey May 16, 2024

In this episode, we're going deep on PCOS. PCOS affects about 1 in 8 women, but there's a lot of confusion out there about it.
We discuss how genetics and lifestyle play a role, and we also touch on the common misconceptions with PCOS, and discuss it’s not just about what's happening in your ovaries; things like insulin resistance, stress, inflammation, and thyroid problems are all key drivers of this syndrome. We also highlight why what works for one person, might not work for another.
But here's the good news: we've got options. We're all about personalized plans here, whether that means changing up your lifestyle or maybe adding in some meds if that's what you need. We're all about empowering you to take control and manage those symptoms.
This is a great episode for anyone new on their PCOS journey, or anyone who wants to learn more about what’s going on in their body, and wants to start to see improvements in their symptoms.
So, join us as we break down PCOS, demystify the whole thing, and show you how you can turn things around with the right approach.
Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you.
Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

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Struggling to stick to your New Year's resolutions? Here's why... Jan 18, 2024

We're diving into why New Year's resolutions are setting you up to fail and how you can actually make lasting changes by building habits that embody the person you want to be.

We've got Sophia Dawson, our resident licensed psychologist here at Ovie, as our special guest. She's sharing her expertise on how to set yourself up for success and build habits that will help you achieve your goals.

She also provides practical tips and strategies for building habits that last and discusses the importance of aligning your actions with your values and goals.
Something things we cover in this episode:

Why do most NY resolutions fail?
What to do instead of setting typical NY resolutions?
Choosing stuff that matters to you (values).
Adopt the identify of the person you want to be.
Making towards moves.

Want to learn more and have a plan in place to help your habits stick? Sign up to Ovie here and receive the tools and resources you need to make positive changes for life.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Overcoming binge eating disorder & reducing stress: Moriah's PCOS experience Jan 11, 2024

Moriah describes herself as a 'stressaholic.' Working in a fast-paced, demanding job, she thought this was just part of her life and who she is. She had a tumultuous year with the writer strikes in 2023 and suddenly found herself with a lot of time to spare.
Instead of worrying, she decided to put her time off to good use and signed up for our PCOS program. In the past, Moriah has struggled with binge eating disorder, making diets and calorie counting extremely triggering for her. However, after listening to one of our previous podcasts, she realized she was not alone, and our PCOS management program had that in mind.
Throughout the program, Moriah made changes that didn't solely focus on weight loss but gave her the tools to manage things she had control over, such as stress management, sleep, joyful movement, and self-awareness. From that, weight loss started to happen.
A huge thank you to Moriah for being so open and sharing your story with us. We hope that listening to Moriah's story shows you that you can overcome your PCOS issues and set goals not only for 2024 but for life.

If you're looking to take control of your PCOS like Moriah did, take the Ovie questionnaire, find your drivers and start your journey today.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Isabel's raw and real PCOS journey: From overcoming food obsession and missing periods to internal peace and pregnancy! Jan 04, 2024

Do you find yourself thinking about food all day long, believing it's just the norm? Isabel thought so too until she learned more about her PCOS.
Isabel took part in our program to improve her relationship with food, manage her weight, and understand why all her exercising was pushing her in the wrong direction.
She found inner peace through the program and felt so free after letting go of many things that had been taking over her life.
*TW (miscarriage): After just a few months of the changes, Isabel started getting her regular periods, and shortly after, she became pregnant. However, it wasn't all that straightforward due to low progesterone levels during her first pregnancy.
This in-depth conversation with Isabel about her pregnancy and breastfeeding experiences delves into the raw and real details that many people go through but don't talk about enough! We thank Isabel for being so open with us during this conversation and simply love her positive attitude and energy. We're taking notes on this one, and we hope you can take something from it too.
*Trigger warning - please be aware this episode contains conversation about miscarriages.

If you're looking to take control of your PCOS like Isabel did, take the Ovie questionnaire, find your drivers and start your journey today.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rachel's Story: 20+ years of trying to lose weight and it all came down to this one thing... Dec 27, 2023

If you've felt your PCOS symptoms spiralling out of control, and no matter what you do, you just can't seem to get a hold of them, or maybe you didn't even realise all of these things were related to PCOS, this is the podcast for you.
Rachel took part in our PCOS management programme after trying multiple diets over 20+ years to control her weight gain and understand her limits with food. On top of that, she experienced extreme fatigue and sleepless nights from her insulin resistance and stress PCOS combination.
Embracing the Ovie 80:20 method changed Rachel's life, and approaching her PCOS in a more holistic way helped her gain self-compassion and see results she had never seen before! Discovering her 'why' and picturing her long-term goal of wanting to be there for her kids, and not solely wanting to lose weight, meant she could stick with these lifestyle changes long-term and keep going up and up.
It was a pleasure to chat with Rachel about her experience and how she now feels like her cheerful self. We can't wait to see how she continues to flourish.
If you listened to Rachel's story and are thinking 'this is me,' try out the Ovie programme today, get the tools that you need specifically for your PCOS, and start your journey to better health and vitality.
Take the Ovie questionnaire to find your PCOS drivers.

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Discover your 'why' and manage your PCOS for life! Oct 26, 2023

Something we have all of our Ovie users do is to start their journey by discovering their 'why,' which we refer to as their North Star. It's the driving force that keeps you going through tough times and provides a vision of where you want to be in life.
While you can't control your symptoms, you can control the steps you take. Within Ovie, we take gradual steps toward helping you become the best version of yourself and manage it for life.
In this podcast, we will cover:

How to discover your 'why'
Some examples of past patients' 'whys'
How to avoid letting life's challenges derail you from your 'why'

This podcast is for you if:

You're feeling a bit lost on your PCOS journey and need some help.
You're struggling to stick to your habits or goals and want to make that long-term change.

Take our FREE questionnaire today to learn more about your body and start your journey to reversing your PCOS.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Instagram Q&A Oct 19, 2023

We went to our Instagram to hear what burning questions you have about everything and anything.

In this episode, we cover:

How to afford PCOS-friendly foods during inflation
Is intermittent fasting good for PCOS?
Favorite protein bars
What to do at the start of your PCOS journey
And much more!

Thank you to everyone who sent in their questions. We managed to get through many questions and love hearing what's going on for you, providing our tips, tricks, advice, and suggestions.
Want to learn more about your PCOS? Take our FREE questionnaire here to discover your drivers. When you sign up, you'll receive your personalised PCOS program tailored specifically for you.

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Heavy periods & PCOS: What you need to know Oct 11, 2023

What defines a heavy period? Do heavy periods have to be long periods? When should I seek medical advice regarding my periods?
Periods with PCOS can manifest in various ways. The great thing about them is that they can provide valuable insights into your hormonal health, which can help explain how you're feeling.
If you're questioning whether your period is normal or if you simply want to educate yourself on how to better manage it, especially if you're experiencing heavy periods, this podcast is for you.
Want to start managing your periods to make them lighter or more regular? Through Ovie, we create a personalised program specifically tailored to your PCOS condition and goals, allowing you to take control today.
Click here to take the questionnaire for FREE.
This podcast is sponsored by The Organic Initiative. The Organic Initiative (Oi) is here to remove plastics, synthetics, toxins, and toxic chemicals from your world, starting with feminine hygiene and adult care products, so you can feel proud and protected.
I've been using Oi's products for several years now, which have saved me so much money and worry. I can rest easy, knowing that I'm doing good for the planet and my body. If you're looking to purchase some of the amazing Oi products, head over to their website (US & NZ) and you can receive 20% off with the code OVIE, which is a significant discount if you're buying a few cups. I just know you're going to love them as much as I do!

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Deep Dive in 5: PCOS experts answer your personal questions Oct 05, 2023

Do you have a burning question about your health or lifestyle in regards to your PCOS? Is it super specific, and you just don't know how or where to look for the information?
We are all so different when it comes to our PCOS, and while navigating life with this condition is already overwhelming, having a personal issue can often leave us feeling unsure about where we stand, what's right, and what's wrong!
That's why we offer our 'Deep Dive in 5' service, so expert advice is accessible for everyone within the Ovie app.
In this podcast, we cover questions on:

Fertility and ovulation with PCOS
Specific dietary requirements
Weight-loss drugs and how to manage weight when coming off them
Supplementation
Coming off the OCP (oral contraceptive pill)

Don't be left guessing about your PCOS; let our team, with 10+ years of experience specialising in PCOS, do the figuring out for you!
Click here to take the Ovie questionnaire today and get control over your PCOS. *Select a 3-month membership, insert the code: ASKAQ and receive a FREE 'Deep Dive in 5' question upon sign up.
*ASKAQ offer expired.

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How can I manage my PCOS acne, hirsutism and hair-loss?: Anti-androgens, lifestyle changes and more... Sep 28, 2023

Anti-androgens for PCOS - What are they? Why might we take them? Are they necessary? What are our options?

If you're experiencing acne, hirsutism, or hair loss as symptoms of your PCOS, listen in for an in-depth analysis and description of your options when it comes to managing these challenging symptoms.

Sometimes, drugs may feel necessary, especially for our mental health when managing these symptoms, and that is perfectly fine. How you manage your PCOS symptoms is your choice. We aim to provide you with the tools and resources you need to make an informed decision so that you feel comfortable discussing and questioning your healthcare professional when seeking help.

In addition to medications, lifestyle changes play a significant role in improving our symptoms, as stated in the 2023 Monash PCOS Guidelines. This is where Ovie comes into play. We can assist you in creating a long-term plan so you can effectively manage these symptoms sustainably for life.

Interested in learning more about Ovie and yourself? Take our FREE questionnaire here to discover your drivers. When you sign up, you'll receive your personalised PCOS program tailored specifically for you.
In this episode, we cover:

What are anti-androgens and why would we need to take them
The different types of anti-androgens and their effects
Your other options if you don't want to take medication

This episode is for you if:

Your experiencing acne, hirsutism or hair loss as a PCOS symptom
You want to feel comfortable discussing solutions with your health and medical practitioner about anti-androgens and other options
You want to know how Ovie could help you in this journey

Podcast episode: Hormonal Birth Control & Weight Gain, we finally have the proof!

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Dr. Samina on navigating postpartum with PCOS Sep 21, 2023

We caught up with Dr. Samina to discuss postpartum experiences and how to navigate life with PCOS after having a baby. It's a life changing experience which can also be a nerve-wracking time for many reasons, on top of that you may wonder what your PCOS symptoms will be like in this new phase of life.
During our conversation, we address realistic expectations and the steps you can take to manage your PCOS, such as ensuring you provide your body with the right nutrients in case you experience a resurgence of symptoms.
In this episode, we cover:

Clare's & Dr. Samina's postpartum experiences and what they've learnt
How we can get close to that 80:20 lifestyle to get you feeling your best

This episode is for you if:

You're struggling with managing your PCOS postpartum
You feel alone in your postpartum journey and can't navigate your way through

Exclusive Ovie member content: How and when to use progesterone postpartum - Sign up to Ovie to get access to more professional advice and tips.
Take the Ovie questionnaire to find out your drivers.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Overcoming the fear of eating more and gaining weight: The key to sustainable weight loss Sep 13, 2023

"You need to eat more in order to lose weight" – it goes against everything you've been told about weight loss, right?
Well, we're here to tell you that it's TRUE! If you've been living on an extremely restrictive diet for way too long, there are adaptations your body will make to ensure that you survive, including slowing down your metabolism. Therefore, you won't burn fat because your body is holding onto it for dear life, literally!
We totally get that this can be daunting and scary. We've heard it from many of our clients, and we've been through it ourselves. But once you give it a try, you'll understand that nourishing your body with the nutrients it needs equals a happier, better-functioning body.
So, if you want to hear the reason behind why eating more means you can start losing weight, then listen in!
In this episode, we cover:

The mindset shift you need in order to trust the process
What happens to your body's metabolism when you don't eat enough
How to eat freely and enjoy food
How to know if you're overdoing it with exercise and why that might not work

This episode is for you if:

You feel like it is impossible to lose weight no matter how little you eat
You feel mentally exhausted with restrictive diets
You want to change your relationship with food

Listen to Jaimee's Story on how she lost 30kg after joining our programme here.
Want to sign up to the Ovie programme to find out how you can do this too? Take the questionnaire today, find your drivers and get control over of your PCOS here.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The PCOS Guidelines 2023: How to advocate for yourself with health and medical professionals Sep 07, 2023

Ever felt like you couldn't discuss something with a health or medical professional regarding your PCOS? Maybe you didn't have the tools or information to back yourself up. Well, the newly released PCOS guidelines can help you with that.
In this podcast, we touch on some of the main points from the evidence-backed research and hope we can provide you with the knowledge and confidence to advocate for yourself while navigating your way through PCOS.
So, if you don't feel like you're getting the support you need, this one's for you.
And if you're interested in reading the guidelines for yourself, click here to have a read.
In this episode, we cover:

Several crucial points from the newly released PCOS guidelines
How to make the healthcare system work for you

This episode is for you if:

You need confidence to discuss PCOS management or concerns with your healthcare provider
You want to learn more about PCOS research as a whole

Want to find out your PCOS drivers and take control of your PCOS? Take the Ovie questionnaire for FREE.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Training with your cycle: Can my PCOS enhance my training? Aug 31, 2023

Ever been to the gym or out for a run and just felt totally bleugh, but you don't know why, especially when you hit a personal best last week and felt amazing? That could be because of the different phases of our cycle that affect our energy levels due to changes in our hormones.
Technically, we have two phases of our cycle, however when it comes to training, we can break this down into five phases to train appropriately for each one.
If you have PCOS, you might be wondering, 'How can I figure out what's right for me with my cycle?' We hear you. Once you have a regular cycle that you can track, you can start tuning into how you feel throughout that period. And rest assured, those of us with longer periods actually experience our mid-follicular phase (a.k.a our 'SEND IT' phase) for even longer, allowing us to give it our all. Pretty cool, huh?
In this episode, we cover:

The different phases of your cycle and how to work with them
How to adapt this for PCOS and understand how long you will be in certain stages
Training-specific program ideas, such as weight training, running, and exercises for enjoyment

This episode is for you if:

You want to know what's right for you in your training
You want to learn more about your body and cycles

If you're struggling to have regular cycles, we can help with that at Ovie. Take the Ovie questionnaire here and set your goals. You'll receive your personalised programme to help you take control of your PCOS and regulate your periods.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trending Now: Debunking The Latest Online Trends Aug 10, 2023

Trends, you can't avoid them nowadays. They're often started via social media and can go viral within hours. This week, we are discussing current popular trends such as "Girl Plate Dinner" and "What I Eat in a Day" through a critical lens. We will uncover the positives, such as displaying creativity and forming good habits. However, we also emphasize that they can have adverse effects, setting unrealistic expectations that lead to comparison anxiety, and even promote dangerous habits.
We encourage listeners to approach these trends with a balanced perspective and remind you that what you see on social media is merely a snapshot of someone's life, often cherry-picked to present an idealized version.
In this episode we cover:

The latest trends we've seen on social media
The positives and negatives of such trends and how some can be great for inspiration whilst others lead to comparison anxiety
The psychology of creating long-lasting, sustainable habits over quick fixes

This episode is for you if:

You've experienced being sucked into a trend and felt guilty about your lifestyle
You want to listen to a balanced debate about the latest trends and how you can positively interpret some and what not to follow

Want to find out what is driving your PCOS? Click here to take the Ovie questionnaire.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discovering your PCOS drivers: Introducing Ovie Aug 03, 2023

It’s an exciting week at The PCOS Nutritionist as we launch our new PCOS management app, Ovie!
Ovie helps people with PCOS improve their symptoms and prevent the long-term complications of PCOS by providing them with hyper-personalized health advice based on their specific symptoms.
Today, we chat about how Ovie can help you discover those main drivers and have a better understanding about your PCOS. Everyone is different, what works for you might not work for someone else, and that is probably down to your drivers.
In this episode, we cover:

What could be driving your PCOS
How the Ovie questionnaire can help you understand your PCOS
How the Ovie app works in creating long-lasting results
Setting your specific goals for what you want to achieve from Ovie
...and so much more!

This episode is for you if:

You know you have PCOS but need support in managing it
You want to learn more about what could be driving your PCOS
You feel overwhelmed with all the different messages online and want to know what changes you can make specifically for you.

Click here to take the Ovie questionnaire.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

116: Let’s debunk “breast is best” and talk about how PCOS affects breastfeeding (because it feels like nobody does!) Apr 19, 2022

Since the birth of my sweet baby girl Flossie last month, I’ve been pretty vocal about my low milk supply and struggles with breastfeeding — not only because of my PCOS but also due to the fact that I had two failed inductions and a c-section.

You’re told by your doctor, midwife and antenatal teachers that “breast is best”. I know I had this absolutely drilled into me!

But is it really?

Well, the short answer is yes — we know that “breast is best”.

But what do you do when breastfeeding is not an option?

Will your PCOS affect your chances of being able to breastfeed? Can your lifestyle affect your breastfeeding abilities? How can you improve your chances of being able to breastfeed with PCOS and what should you look out for? What are some practical changes and additions you can make to help you if you have low supply?

For all of you who are currently pregnant or are planning to get pregnant, these may be questions you’re asking yourself. Unfortunately, your midwife, antenatal teacher or GP may not have the answers.

If you don’t know where to turn to for answers or even what to look out for that may affect your chances of being able to breastfeed - this week’s episode of The PCOS Nutritionist Podcast is one you’re going to want to tune in to.

In this week’s episode of The PCOS Nutritionist, I talk about all things breastfeeding and PCOS - what you need to look out for before and during pregnancy that may affect your ability, what you should do to get an idea of whether you’ll be able to breastfeed or not, how to tell if your baby is getting the adequate nutrients they need from your breastmilk, and lifestyle factors all women should think about that may affect milk production.

I know this podcast isn’t relevant for everyone, but if this sounds like you, you’re planning to get pregnant in the future or you’re thinking back about your breastfeeding experience(s) after hearing about mine — it’s for you!

This episode is for you if:

You’re trying to conceive, currently pregnant or recently postpartum
My breastfeeding experience so far with Flossie has made you curious to understand more about PCOS and breastfeeding
You want to know if PCOS will stop you from being able to breastfeed
GPs / midwifes / antenatal educators / Obstetricians have told you that ‘breast is best’ and you shouldn’t be using formula
You can’t / weren’t able to breastfeed and you want to hear more about the science behind why that might be
Preparation for breastfeeding or not being able to breastfeed is something that you want to sort before baby arrives
You have insulin resistance
You had issues with ovulation during puberty
Your GP / midwife / antenatal educator doesn’t seem to be able to answer your questions

Some things we cover in this episode:

The top three things that are likely to impair your chances of being able to breastfeed
What insulin resistance has to do with breast growth, milk production and breastfeeding in general
Drugs to help breastmilk production
Things outside of PCOS that may be affecting your ability to breastfeed
What breastpump I use and how much I’m pumping vs. what I’m trying to do breastfeeding wise
How to know if your baby isn’t getting the nutrients they need from your breastmilk
The best way to eat for breastfeeding
Are lactation cookies actually all they’re cracked up to be?
Getting back to your pre-baby weight – is it possible to do it and breastfeed at the same time?
Herbs to help breastmilk production
What I’m doing to help my low supply

Resources and References:

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58: Changing your diet for your PCOS + dealing with judgement from others about your lifestyle changes Oct 13, 2020

What happens if you have gone plant based for lots of different reasons - a lot of it being ethical reasons - and then you find out that it's not really working for your health and maintaining that way of eating along with making sure your health is in check is making your diet feel very restrictive? So you’re having this internal dilemma because you feel so strongly about the reasons why you chose to remove animal products.

Nutrition has become a hugely controversial topic now. Everyone eats, so everyone has an opinion on what diet is ‘best’, even if they have no tertiary level nutrition education whatsoever. Because there’s a lot of misinformation floating around now - especially around what way of eating is best for PCOS - it can become a bit of a minefield to navigate.

Everything I’ve described above is what today’s podcast guest, the lovely Francesca who I got to know in The PCOS Protocol, was dealing with. She was a devout vegan - for ethical, environmental and health reasons. Since she had become so much a part of the vegan community, being plant based really became a part of who she was. When she joined the Protocol, her main issue was infertility. During the time I was working with her, we found that her insulin wasn't functioning properly - her root cause. Her diet became very restrictive.

The only answer was to expand her diet and she started reintroducing some free range eggs. Now eating eggs again may seem like nothing to you but this is such a hard thing when it's not just about ‘eating eggs’ again. When you identify yourself with a way of eating, it often becomes your whole way of looking at the world, ethics and morals - it essentially becomes an extension of your identity. So when that has to shift, it becomes a very hard thing to manage. And that’s not just with moving away from a plant based diet, for you it may be that your a devout follower of keto but you actually need some carbohydrates in order to get your period back.

Everyone talks about going keto, vegan, vegetarian, paleo and so on but no one is really talking about becoming un-vegan, un-keto etc. If you do have to change your diet away from something you’ve been doing for so long, how would you go about that process?

This is why I really wanted to share Francesca’s story with you all on the podcast - so you can hear someone who’s done the hard yards and can give you some advice on how she approached this process.

This episode is for you if:

You are a devout follower of a specific way of eating (whether that’s plant based, keto, paleo - whatever it is!)
You’re struggling to choose between your ethics/morals and your health when it comes to food
You don’t seem to be making any progress with symptoms even though you’re eating “healthy”
Talking about your diet with anyone seems very stressful or causes lots of opinions and unsolicited advice

Some things we cover in this episode:

Dealing with people’s opinions on how you choose to eat or changing the way your eating
How diet can affect our PCOS, our cycles and ultimately our fertility
Getting pregnant with PCOS
How to figure out the best way to find balance between eating in a way that you believe in as well as eating in a way that’s physiologically best for YOU
Changing your eating habits
The stigma around being vegan or not being vegan
How to approach conversations full of unsolicited diet advice (ugh)
When a way of eating becomes your identity
How to figure out what diet is best for you and your PCOS

Links to our programs:

The PCOS Protocol

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MINI PODCAST: What’s the best way to remove unwanted hair growth in PCOS? Mar 26, 2020

We’re starting something new here at The PCOS Nutritionist Podcast - we’re now doing a mini podcast each week!

We’ll be asking questions via a question box on The PCOS Nutritionist Instagram story and answering a few of the top ones in a short but sweet 10-15 minute podcast.

This week, keeping on the topic of hirsutism (unwanted hair growth), we’re talking all about removing unwanted hair growth for women with PCOS - and what’s most effective.

It’s something that 70-80% of women deal with, and many spend hundreds if not thousands on removing it, so this week we’ll be sharing the different ways of removing the hair that’s already there and which is most effective.

This episode is for you if:

Have noticeable hair growth on your face, stomach, back and/or chest
You want to know how to get rid of unwanted hair
You have insulin resistant PCOS
Haven't had any luck removing this hair via treatments like topical creams and laser

Some things we cover in this episode:

Different ways of removing the hair that’s already there
Which treatment is the most effective for women with PCOS

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

26: What supplements do I take to help my PCOS symptoms? Jan 15, 2020

To a lot of you, I’m sure your PCOS diagnosis left you thinking ‘okay, now what’?

Visiting the doctor, specialists, the OBGYN - everyone just tells you to either go on the Pill or that there’s nothing they can really do about it, so you just have to deal with the hand you’ve been dealt.

If you’ve been listening to the podcast or following me for a while, you’ll know that the above simply isn’t true - the Pill doesn’t fix PCOS it just puts a band-aid on some of the symptoms and while there isn’t a clear cure for PCOS, targeted lifestyle changes have been found to make a huge difference for so many women!

Where things get a little confusing - for both people dealing with PCOS and even those without it - is supplements. They’re sold pretty much everywhere and everyone is talking about them. So with hundreds of different superfoods, vitamins, mineral supplements and powders on the market, how do you know which ones are worth investing in?

I’ve had a crazy amount of questions about supplements and which ones to take if you have PCOS.

In this week’s episode, I’m talking you through everything to do with supplements. What supplements even are, what types there are, what they do in our bodies, my go-to’s, the supplements I stay away from and I’ll answer the age old question…

“What supplements do I take to help my PCOS symptoms?”

If you’ve been wondering what and whether supplements will help your PCOS symptoms and you want a bit more direction, then definitely listen in to this week’s episode. It might save you from wasting your time and buying a couple hundred dollars worth of supplements that may not actually do anything!

This episode is for you if:

You’re already taking supplements but aren’t sure if you have the right ones
You’re often fatigued and/or sick
You want to know a little bit more about how supplements work in your body
You aren’t clinically deficient in vitamins and minerals but you’re still feeling the symptoms of a deficiency
You’re wondering whether the superfoods and supplements that people are raving about online are actually going to do anything
You’re overwhelmed with all the choices of products

Some things we cover in this episode:

The types of supplements there are and what they mean
What supplements help PCOS
What supplements have a negative effect on PCOS symptoms
Food vs. Supplements - what’s more effective for vitamin and nutrient absorption?
Inflammation
How IBS symptoms affect your how well your supplements work.
My go-to and stay-away-from supplements

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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