Hormone Health Hub: Expert Insights on Testing, Balance & Better Living — PCOS and insulin resistance

Fertility Mapping: Navigating Fertility with PCOS and Insulin Resistance (Part II)By Dr. Alison McAllister Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex, multifactorial condition influenced by disruptions in hormone receptors, metabolism, neurotransmitter function, and nutrient balance. As a lifelong disorder, PCOS is a leading contributor to infertility, weight gain, and an increased risk for cardiometabolic issues. In this blog post, we dive deeper into laboratory testing, helping healthcare providers understand which tests are critical for women suspected of having PCOS. Lab Testing for PCOS PCOS is most commonly diagnosed through the Rotterdam Criteria, a diagnostic framework that considers various indicators, including...

For many, the journey to parenthood can be difficult, especially for those facing infertility. PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) affects about 10% of women, and around 80% of them will experience infertility. Although some women with PCOS conceive naturally, others require medical assistance. Recent research has deepened our understanding of PCOS, revealing that it’s not just a reproductive disorder but a complex condition involving hormonal imbalances, genetic factors, and metabolic disturbances. Key findings include: Hormonal Imbalances: Women with PCOS often have elevated levels of androgens (like testosterone and DHEA), which affect hormone receptor function. Beyond the Ovaries: PCOS is a lifelong...

By Dr. Alison McAllister, ND Becoming a parent is a dream that can sometimes feel out of reach, especially for those facing infertility. For many, the path to parenthood is fraught with challenges. Infertility affects one in six individuals, with a significant portion stemming from female factors. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one such factor, impacting around 10% of women and making conception a struggle for approximately 80% of them. Recent advancements have deepened our understanding of PCOS, revealing it as more than just an ovarian issue. Here are some key insights: Complex Hormonal Imbalances: PCOS involves elevated androgens like...

Hormonal acne is one of the most common and frustrating skin conditions affecting women across all life stages — from puberty and perimenopause to post-pill breakouts and PCOS. At its root, acne is an inflammatory condition driven by androgen excess, sebum overproduction, skin microbiome disruption, and immune activation. Diet, gut health, and hormonal imbalances all play interconnected roles. This article explains the science behind hormonal acne, the key hormones involved, the role of diet and the microbiome, and how targeted hormone testing can identify the specific drivers of your breakouts.

When a patient with PCOS or weight issues is told “your blood sugar is normal,” the story is far from over. In this clinical article, Dr. Alison McAllister of ZRT Laboratory explains why insulin — not glucose — is the primary driver of PCOS symptoms, weight gain, testosterone and DHEAS excess, and cortisol dysfunction. Understanding the progression from insulin resistance to hyperinsulinemia to type 2 diabetes is essential for identifying and treating PCOS at the earliest possible stage.