Introduction:
PCOS stands for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Polycystic means many cysts.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects women’s health. A hormonal disorder is caused by the multiple cysts formed in the ovaries and affects them in their childbearing stages. In this condition, ovaries produce abnormal amounts of androgens, male sex hormones. Hormonal imbalance causes women’s bodies to skip menstrual periods, making it difficult for them to conceive. They may experience irregular periods or periods that may last for many days.
When the body functions normally, ovulation occurs and a mature egg leaves an ovary. It happens so that a male sperm can fertilise it. If the egg does not fertilise, it goes out from the body during her period.
In some situations, a woman’s body does not function properly and may not produce enough hormones required for ovulation. When ovulation does not occur, the ovaries generate a large number of little cysts. These cysts produce androgens, which are the male sex hormones. PCOS is caused by an androgen imbalance and women with PCOS usually have these high levels of androgens. This process may worsen a woman’s menstrual cycle difficulties and cause many of the symptoms linked with PCOS.
In PCOS, several little sacs of fluid form around the ovary’s outer edge, known as cysts. Immature eggs are present in these little fluid-filled cysts, which are known as follicles. The follicles often stop generating eggs.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common health condition that changes how the ovaries function in women.
PCOS has three characteristics:
1: Polycystic Ovaries:
Female ovaries swell and hold many sacs (follicles) filled with fluid that contains immature eggs (no ovulation). No ovulation alters the normal functioning of ovaries and produces higher-than-normal levels of androgens.
2: Hormonal Imbalance:
In PCOS, abnormal levels of androgens (male sex hormones) are produced in the female body and show physical symptoms such as excess face and thick body hair.
3: Irregular periods:
It implies that ovaries fail to produce eggs at regular intervals.
PCOS vs PCOD
PCOS = Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
PCOD = Polycystic Ovary Disease
PCOS is a metabolic condition that can cause anovulation, which occurs when the ovaries stop producing eggs.
PCOD occurs when the ovaries generate many immature eggs because of a bad lifestyle, obesity, stress, and hormonal imbalance.
What causes Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
The exact cause of polycystic ovary syndrome is still unknown and unclear. However, few factors indicate the presence of PCOS.
- Genes
- Insulin Resistance
- Obesity
- Inflammation
- Androgen levels
1: Genes:
Research indicates that a family history of polycystic ovary syndrome has been related to the condition and is common in most cases.
2: Insulin Resistance:
In a research study, more than 70% of PCOS patients possess insulin resistance. Insulin is a hormone that the pancreas produces in the body. Insulin helps your body cells to utilise sugar as a source of energy, but when these cells become resistant to insulin, sugar levels rise, and your body produces more insulin to maintain blood sugar levels. High insulin levels cause your body to create more androgen-containing male hormones. Hormone imbalances may interfere with your ovulation process, in which eggs are released from the ovary. Weight gain, increased appetite, and dark skin patches on the lower part of the neck are the major signs of insulin resistance in the body.
3: Obesity:
Obesity and abnormal weight gain is the leading cause of insulin resistance, which leads to type 2 diabetes.
4: Inflammation:
Being overweight or obese contributes to low-grade inflammation in the body. This inflammation leads ovaries to produce more androgens ( male sex hormones).
5: Androgen levels:
The ovaries may create abnormal amounts of androgen in PCOS. Too much androgen interferes with ovulation and means that eggs do not develop regularly and do not release from the follicles where they grow. Excess androgen levels may also lead to cystic acne and Hirsutism.
Common symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome:
The common symptoms of PCOS include:
- Acne
- Infertility
- Headaches
- Weight gain
- Mood changes
- Heavy bleeding
- Sleep disturbance
- Darkening of the skin
- Excessive hair growth
- Large ovaries with cysts
- Hair loss or hair thinning
- Irregular menstrual periods
It is crucial to understand that not all women will have these symptoms and that the extent which they appear varies widely. If you have at least half of these symptoms, consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
How does Polycystic Ovary Syndrome affect your body?
Abnormal levels of androgens can affect your fertility and cause other health issues.
Acne:
Acne can develop due to hormonal abnormalities caused by PCOS, particularly on the lower face, chin, and jawline.
Infertility:
PCOS is the most common cause of infertility in women. Hormonal imbalances and irregular ovulation can make infertility challenging.
Headaches:
Headaches are frequent issues in women due to hormonal abnormalities. Hormones can cause pain for some women.
Weight gain:
Weight gain can be challenging to control in PCOS due to insulin resistance, hormone imbalances, and other factors. Approximately eighty per cent (80%) of women with PCOS are overweight or obese.
Mood changes:
In women, hormonal changes contribute to mood swings, anxiety, and sadness.
Heavy bleeding:
When you have periods, they may be heavier than usual in PCOS since the uterine lining builds up for a longer period.
Sleep disturbance:
PCOS has been associated with sleep changes such as sleep apnea and is defined as interrupted breathing during sleep and can contribute to tiredness.
Darkening of the skin:
Women suffering from PCOS may notice darkening of the neck, underarms, and beneath the breast.
Excessive hair growth:
It also refers to Hirsutism. PCOS can induce excessive hair growth on the face, chest, and back areas where males typically have hair.
Large ovaries with cysts:
The occurrence of many tiny cysts on the ovaries is a defining hallmark of PCOS. These cysts are often harmless and do not require treatments.
Hair loss or hair thinning:
PCOS causes hair thinning on the scalp and hair loss in some areas.
Irregular menstrual periods:
It is a common symptom of PCOS. Women with PCOS may experience irregular, complex, or unexpected menstrual cycles.
It is how PCOS may affect the bodies of women. Some women have similar symptoms just before the start of their period. Other women do not realise they have PCOS until they have gained a lot of weight or have difficulty conceiving. However, if you encounter any of these symptoms, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
How is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome diagnosed?
Your history, physical examination, and medical tests are used to diagnose PCOS.
History
During your visit, your healthcare provider will ask questions about your lifestyle, nutrition, exercise, menstrual cycle, and other issues such as acne, hair loss, and weight. Following a thorough examination, tests should be administered to ensure a correct diagnosis.
Physical examination:
Your doctor will examine your acne (type, areas in which acne is prevalent), excessive hair growth, skin colour changes, and other desired examinations such as BMI (body mass index).
Medical tests:
Blood tests such as hormone levels, insulin levels, glucose levels, and lipid profiles will require proper assessment during medical testing.
If you have at least two of the following symptoms, a doctor will diagnose you with PCOS.
- Large ovaries with cysts
- High levels of androgens
- Irregular menstrual periods
It is vital to understand that there is no one test for PCOS, but an extensive assessment is required to address this medical problem.
Complications of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome:
PCOS can cause difficulties and long-term health issues in women. Minor issues that fail to be addressed are more likely to progress for a long time and severe problems.
PCOS can cause the following complications:
- Infertility
- Sleep apnea
- Type-2 Diabetes
- Metabolic syndrome
- Gestational diabetes
- Depression and anxiety
- Pregnancy complications
- Miscarriage/Premature birth
- Endometrial cancer (cancer of the uterine lining)
It is vital to understand that not all women with PCOS may encounter these issues. It is determined primarily by other factors such as lifestyle, nutrition, exercise, the severity of polycystic ovarian syndrome and its management.
Obesity and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome:
The most common symptom of PCOS is obesity, which frequently coexists with it. They are in a reciprocal relationship with one another. Obesity can raise the chances of PCOS development, which causes long-term health problems.
Obesity disrupts insulin and hormone levels, which are the main cause of PCOS. Obesity combined with PCOS raises the risk of long-term problems such as diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Weight management is challenging with PCOS, but if it is not managed effects can be severe and long-term.
Pregnancy and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome:
Normal menstruation is disrupted by PCOS, which makes pregnancy more challenging. Women with PCOS experience fertility issues in between 70 and 80 per cent of cases. However, many women can experience a healthy pregnancy with the right advice and medical assistance.
Here are a few key considerations to keep in mind:
- Monitoring and care
- Gestational diabetes
- Lifestyle modifications
- Difficulty in conception
- Pregnancy complications
Monitoring and Care:
Pregnant women with PCOS have been advised to take extra precautions and undergo weekly monitoring to avoid problems. It includes ultrasounds, blood pressure, sugar levels, fetal growth, and many other pregnancy-related indicators.
Gestational Diabetes:
Gestational diabetes is more likely to occur in women with PCOS during pregnancy. However, appropriate monitoring of blood sugar levels and lifestyle changes are required to overcome these issues.
Lifestyle Modifications:
It is mandatory to adopt a healthier lifestyle before and during pregnancy for women with PCOS. A healthier lifestyle includes a well-balanced diet, regular exercise and sound sleep. The hormonal imbalances, weight, insulin resistance, and general health can all improve by implementing these modifications.
Difficulty in Conception:
Women with PCOS can become pregnant by incorporating fertility medications which induce ovulation. Losing weight and controlling blood sugar levels can increase your chances of having a safe pregnancy.
Pregnancy Complications:
Women with PCOS are more likely to develop complications than women who do not have PCOS. Complications in pregnancy include miscarriage, early birth, gestational diabetes, and high blood pressure. However, with careful monitoring and lifestyle modifications risks can be reduced.
Women with PCOS who are trying to conceive or are pregnant should pay special attention to their healthcare providers to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.
Treatment for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome:
There is no cure for PCOS however, symptoms can be treated. Symptom treatment should begin with lifestyle modifications such as a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and weight management.
If you have PCOS and are overweight, reducing your weight through diet and exercise could help with many symptoms. Losing weight helps lower insulin, regulate hormones, improve cholesterol, and lower blood sugar levels.
The symptoms like hair loss, infertility problems, acne, and irregular periods can all treat with medications. For fertility problems, surgical procedures are often an option.
Consult your healthcare provider before planning a pregnancy if you have PCOS or symptoms that could be considered PCOS. To overcome pregnancy outcomes, proper monitoring and assistance are required.
Diet and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome:
There is no recommended diet for PCOS, but several diets, such as low-carb, DASH and anti-inflammatory diets are beneficial. Diets can help in:
- Weight management
- Blood sugar levels
- Cholesterol levels
- Insulin resistance
Some symptoms can be treated by controlling your weight. Not all PCOS women are overweight, yet 80% are obese. Gaining a lot of weight can have effects on their hormones, which causes additional problems in the body. It is challenging to lose weight, but a nutritionist can help you by advising a low-calorie, low-fat diet and portion sizes.
Here are several diets that may help with PCOS symptoms:
1: Low Glycemic Index (GI) Diet:
Your doctor will prescribe a low-GI diet after proper assessment that may help you lose weight and regulate your insulin levels. Low glycemic index foods are slowly broken down by the body, which prevents insulin levels from rising as much as they would with other highly processed carbohydrates.
Foods low in glycemic index include:
- Nuts
- Fruits
- Seeds
- Whole grains
- Starchy vegetables
- Legumes (lentils, chickpeas and beans)
2: DASH Diet:
Healthcare professionals and Dietitians advise the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet to hypertensive patients but helps PCOS women to manage their symptoms. According to research, the DASH diet might help to improve insulin resistance and glucose levels.
Some foods include in the DASH diet are:
- Fish
- Fruit
- Vegetables
- Whole grains
- Low-fat dairy
- Lean poultry
3: Anti-inflammatory Diet:
An anti-inflammatory diet is recommended for PCOS women by healthcare professionals to help manage some of the symptoms of PCOS such as cardiovascular risk, blood sugar levels, hormonal imbalance, and inflammation in the body.
Foods with anti-inflammatory include:
- Berries
- Cherries
- Tomatoes
- Turmeric
- Fatty fish
- Green tea
- Leafy greens
- Extra virgin olive oil
PCOS – Friendly diet:
Foods included in the PCOS diet include:
- High-fibre foods (fruits, vegetables, grains and legumes)
- Unprocessed foods
- Fatty fish
- Green leafy vegetables (spinach, broccoli, avocado, kale and other dark veggies).
- Fruits (berries, cherries, grapes, red fruits).
- Legumes, lentils, dried beans.
- Healthy fats (avocados and extra virgin olive oil).
- Nuts (almonds, walnuts, and pistachios).
- Dark chocolate
- Spices (turmeric and cinnamon).
Foods to avoid in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome:
Foods that should avoid in PCOS include:
- Highly processed foods.
- Fried food.
- Fast food.
- High sugar diet.
- High salty diet.
- Processed meat
- High fatty foods
- Sugary drinks (energy drinks and sodas)
- High red meat consumption
- Refined carbohydrates (white bread, pastries, cakes)
Lifestyle tips for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome:
As mentioned above, lifestyle changes play an essential role in managing PCOS symptoms. According to research, combining dietary adjustments and physical activities can help you improve your health. The following are some of the advantages:
- Weight loss
- Regular periods
- Reduces hair loss
- Reduces acne lesions
- Improves cholesterol levels
- Lower insulin levels
- Boosts metabolism
- Improves sleep cycle
- Reduces the male hormone levels
- Improves your mood
General tips to manage Polycystic Ovary Syndrome symptoms:
- Plan your meals.
- Ensure a healthy diet.
- Do exercise regularly.
- Have a sound sleep.
- Weight management.
- Notice hydration status.
- Do regular monitoring.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol.
- Find ways to reduce stress.
- Take your nutritional supplements.
Remember that everyones encounter with PCOS is different, so it is essential to speak with a healthcare expert who can provide personalised advice based on your specific requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome:
Q 1: When should I see a doctor?
When you get symptoms 50% more frequent than usual, see a professional doctor.
Q 2: Is PCOS curable?
Although there is no effective treatment for PCOS, symptoms can be treated with therapies, dietary changes, and drugs.
Q 3. Can PCOS raise the chance of developing other chronic diseases?
Women with PCOS are more likely to develop chronic illnesses that include diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, endometrial cancer, etc.
Q 4. Can PCOS be treated solely with medications?
No. You should change your lifestyle in addition to taking medications. Consult your healthcare provider for the best advice and evaluation.
Q 5: Does PCOS have an impact on women’s fertility?
Due to the lack of ovulation, conception is challenging, but issues can be resolved with proper care.
Q 6: Can birth control pills help in the treatment of PCOS?
Birth control pills are used to treat problems such as acne, hair loss, menstrual cycle irregularity, and hormone imbalance. It is essential to consult your doctor to receive the finest treatment.
Q 7: Can I self-medicate for PCOS?
No. Self-medication for these types of health problems is not recommended. Your life will be in threat for the rest of your life. Always consult your doctor if you are experiencing any symptoms.
Q 8: Can the symptoms of PCOS change over time?
The symptoms of PCOS differ from person to person and fluctuate over time.
Q9: Can PCOS have an impact on my mental health?
PCOS can have an impact on your emotional and mental well-being. Gaining weight and hormone imbalances are the two most common causes of low mood, sadness, and anxiety.
Q 10: Can PCOS be treated while pregnant?
PCOS management throughout pregnancy demands close monitoring of your symptoms by your healthcare professional.
Q 11: Can PCOS disappear after menopause?
Even though PCOS is an ongoing illness with no known cure, some symptoms, including hair loss, irregular menstruation, acne, and others, become better with age. Nevertheless, it is essential to keep getting checked out and receiving therapy.
Q 12: Can PCOS be passed down to children if the mother has it?
A family history of PCOS may raise your chances, but it is not a guarantee. It also depends on a variety of circumstances. Also, if you have PCOS, talk to your doctor before getting pregnant.
The bottom line:
Lifestyle modifications are the first treatment that doctors advise you and they work well. Weight loss may reduce approximately 70% of the symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, so engage yourself in regular exercise, get enough sleep and eat a well-balanced, healthy diet.