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In the recent years, the polycystic ovarian syndrome has become a growing problem not just in the United States but in other developed countries of the world such as Canada, Australia, Germany, and the United Kingdom, including developing countries.
According to the statistics, over 5 million women are suffering from this problem in the United States alone.
Without a doubt, PCOS can wreak havoc on hormones of women afflicted with this problem.
According to researchers, it is the most common endocrine condition among women of reproductive age in the United States.
A lot of people who suffer from this condition have no idea what they need to do. Fortunately, this article will tell you the basics of what you need to know about the polycystic ovarian syndrome and how you can manage this condition.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome?
Polycystic ovarian syndrome, also known as PCOS is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. This problem affects 1 in 10 women of childbearing age. When you have this condition, you are likely to have a hormonal imbalance problem which may affect your overall health and appearance.
Studies have shown that PCOS can affect your ability to have a child. In fact, it is one of the common causes of infertility. It could also make your periods to stop or become hard to predict as well as increases your chances of having other health problems such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
How Dangerous is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome?
Currently, there is no cure for this problem. In fact, doctors and researchers don’t know exactly what causes PCOS. It is a growing problem in most countries and one of the major reasons why women of childbearing age have infertility.
However, some of the symptoms of this disease can be treated. With PCOS, your reproductive hormones are out of balance. This usually can lead to a problem with your ovaries.
Most women who have PCOS are used to inconsistent period. In some cases, they miss their period entirely. When you have PCOS, your body might not react to insulin the way that it should. Moreover, PCOS will increase your chances of suffering from other diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
If you are diagnosed with PCOS, it is vital that you take a step immediately to manage it. Below, you will learn of symptoms and treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome and what you can do when you are diagnosed with PCOS.
Symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
When you have PCOS, you can suffer from any of these symptoms mentioned below:
- Irregular Menstrual Cycle
- Too much hair (on the chin, face, or other parts of the body where men usually have hair)
- Thinning hair (male-pattern baldness)
- AcneDarkening of skin
- Weight gain
- Difficult losing weight
- Skin tags
Causes of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
At the moment, the doctors and researchers don’t know the exact cause of PCOS. However, some of the factors that play a role in getting PCOS include:
High Insulin Levels: Studies have shown that most women with PCOS have insulin resistance. This is common in women who are overweight or obese. If left untreated, insulin resistance can cause Type-2 diabetes.
High Levels of Androgens: Androgens, also known as “male hormones,” are believed to be one of the factors that cause PCOS. Most women have some elements of these hormones in their bodies, albeit in a small quantity. Various studies discovered that most women with PCOS have more androgens than usual.
Treatment of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
Right now, there is no known treatment for PCOS. However, studies have shown that eating wisely, sleeping well, being physically active, and managing your stress can help you reverse the hormone imbalances caused by PCOS. Below, you will find various ways you can manage PCOS.
1. Make Diet Changes
Eating the right diet with the right ingredients can help you manage the symptoms of PCOS. You can regulate your hormones and your menstrual cycle with a nourishing diet. Avoid eating processed food or heavily preserved foods. These foods cause insulin resistance and inflammation.
Make sure you eat a lot of plant-based proteins such as legumes, nuts, and whole grains. You should also aim for anti-inflammatory foods like tomatoes, olive oil, fatty fish, and leafy greens. It is recommended that you consider the Mediterranean diet when you have PCOS.
2. Take the Right Supplements
Right supplements can help you with insulin resistance, hormone regulation, and inflammation, which are associated with PCOS. One of the most popular supplements for managing PCOS symptoms is Inositol.
Inositol is a B vitamin. This supplement can help you improve your fertility level as well as improve insulin resistance. Other supplements you can take include: Chromium, Zinc, Turmeric, Cinnamon, and Evening Primrose Oil.
3. Get Some Exercise
Exercise will help you lose weight and improve circulation in your body. When you are afflicted with PCOS, make sure you get the right amount of exercise daily.
In some cases, too much exercise can disrupt your hormones. Thus, you must talk to your doctor before you embark on any exercise.
4. Lower Your Stress Levels
High levels of stress can cause the body to release a stress hormone called cortisol. If elevated levels of cortisol stick around for a prolonged period, insulin resistance can manifest, causing PCOS symptoms to worsen. Let’s face it, we can not avoid stress, but we can learn to manage it. Learn10 Effective Ways to Destress Here.
Final Thoughts
PCOS can be a painful condition to deal with, but it can be managed for a better quality of living. Read 5 Ways to Balance Your Hormones Naturally as balancing hormones is the key to managing PCOS.
-Shameka Renee
Results may vary. Information and statements made are for general purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Her Own Health does not dispense medical advice, prescribe, or diagnose illness. The views and nutritional advice expressed by Her Own Health are not intended to be a substitute for conventional medical service. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
