Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a multifactorial hormonal condition that affects millions of women in the US. Because symptoms can occur throughout the body, it may take a few years before this condition is diagnosed. A key component to PCOS is insulin resistance and weight gain, and because of this, women with PCOS have a higher risk for developing heart disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, cholesterol abnormalities, and endometrial cancer.
Common symptoms of PCOS include irregular periods, cystic acne, hair loss on the head, and hair growth on other parts of the body (chin, chest, or lower belly). Other symptoms may include anxiety/ depression, sleep apnea, miscarriage or gestational diabetes. Another common problem of PCOS is infertility, and up to 70% of women with this condition will have trouble conceiving.
PCOS is diagnosed by an ultrasound. Multiple cysts may be seen on both ovaries. Bloodwork may reveal high levels of androgen hormones and lower progesterone levels. Have your healthcare provider check your vitamin D levels as they may also be low.
Traditional treatments for PCOS have included birth control pills to control symptoms and regulate periods. Clomiphene has been used to help with achieving a pregnancy. Metformin was given for insulin resistance or diabetes.
It is now understood that adopting healthy habits may be beneficial. To improve insulin resistance without medication, a healthy lifestyle must be adopted. Eat nutritious foods with plenty of fiber (which includes lots of fruits, vegetables, and beans/ lentils), and less simple carbohydrates. Avoid inflammatory foods like sugar, red meat, and vegetable or canola oils. Exercise daily, but start with 30 minutes or less. Use meditation or other relaxation techniques to reduce stress and improve sleep.
If you would like to learn more about PCOS and how lifestyle changes can improve your symptoms, book a FREE Baseline Wellness Assessment call with me today.
References:
- Northrup, Christiane MD. Women’s Bodies, Women’s Wisdom. 2020. Bantam Books
- Romm, Aviva MD. Hormone Intelligence. 2021. HarperOne
- Vitti, Alisa. In the Flo. 2020. HarperCollins