See a clinician for evaluation (history, physical exam, and targeted labs)
Use lab tests as advised (e.g., TSH, prolactin, total/free testosterone, DHEA-S, LH/FSH, estradiol, progesterone, HbA1c/fasting glucose, CBC, CMP, vitamin D, ferritin)
Track symptoms and cycle pattern (dates, bleeding changes, acne, hair changes, weight changes, sleep, stress)
Address thyroid imbalance if present (take levothyroxine or other thyroid treatment as prescribed)
Treat elevated prolactin if present (medications such as dopamine agonists as prescribed; MRI if advised)
Manage PCOS with lifestyle and targeted therapy (weight management, regular activity, metformin if prescribed, hormonal contraception or cyclic progesterone if appropriate)
Treat irregular or heavy bleeding with guideline-based options (progestin therapy, hormonal IUD, combined oral contraceptives, or other options as prescribed)
If low estrogen or perimenopause symptoms are significant, discuss options (menopausal hormone therapy or non-hormonal treatments as appropriate)
Correct insulin resistance if present (diet changes, exercise, and medications like metformin or others as prescribed)
Improve diet quality (adequate protein, fiber, healthy fats; limit refined carbs and ultra-processed foods)
Maintain a healthy weight if overweight and avoid restrictive dieting if underweight
Exercise regularly (mix of aerobic and resistance training; avoid overtraining)
Sleep 7–9 hours nightly and keep a consistent schedule
Reduce chronic stress (mindfulness, CBT, therapy, relaxation practices)
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
Review and adjust medications that can affect hormones (as directed by a clinician)
Ensure adequate micronutrients (vitamin D, iron if low, and folate/B12 if deficient)
Consider supplementation only if a deficiency or specific indication is confirmed (do not self-treat broadly)
For acne/hirsutism, discuss targeted treatments (topical therapies, anti-androgens if appropriate, hormonal options)
Use contraception and hormone therapy only under medical guidance
Consider referral to specialists if needed (OB/GYN, endocrinologist, reproductive endocrinology, dermatologist)
Seek urgent care for red flags (very heavy bleeding, bleeding with dizziness/fainting, severe pelvic pain, sudden vision changes, severe headaches with prolactin-related symptoms, signs of blood clots)
