Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

Overview of PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS is a type of endocrine-endocrinology disorder that affects the ovaries, causing them to swell up with cysts. The exact cause for either of these conditions is unknown, but it’s thought that diet and lifestyle factors may play a role in the development of both conditions.

PCOS can be caused by several different things, including genetics. In this article, we’ll discuss the key symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome, how it affects women’s health and what can be done to help manage it.

Symptoms | How People With PCOS Experience Problems| Causes and Effects of Polycystiomy| Treatment & Prevention of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Symptoms of the condition

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is diagnosed when an ultrasound reveals a fatty mass that forms around the outer edge of the ovary. As well as the appearance of this mass, people should also look for changes around their reproductive organs, such as blood tests. If they are experiencing any of these symptoms, they may have polycystic ovary syndrome.

The most common symptom associated with polycystic ovary syndrome is high body weight. Other symptoms include: Fatigue from the excess energy needed to function as if you had another condition

Abdominal pain

Low back pain

Skin conditions like acne breakouts or hair loss

Painful periods

Pain during sex

How does polycystic ovary syndrome affect women?

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is more than just a hormone problem. It affects how your body functions, your mood and your weight. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome have higher risks of diabetes, heart disease and obesity which can lead to other serious illnesses such as cancer.

How PCOS is diagnosed? 

Polycystic ovary syndrome is diagnosed through medical tests on your menstrual cycle, hormones and other symptoms. They may also need to take extra steps to make sure there isn’t something else going on, like eating a poor diet or having a stressful life. Getting a full history from your GP will allow them to get to the bottom of everything that could be happening.

How can I tell whether I might have polycystic ovary syndrome?

If you think that you might have polycystic ovary syndrome or other ovulatory problems, it's important to check in with your doctor and follow their advice about whether you need further testing because you're not making enough eggs or you’re getting low levels of luteinizing hormone. Your doctor will know exactly what to investigate if you suspect you have polycystic ovary syndrome.

What other effects does polycystic ovary syndrome have on women?

Polycystic ovary syndrome can also have an effect on you emotionally and physically. You can become depressed easily, especially if you are trying to conceive. High levels of stress hormones may also impact your mental health, so it’s important to speak to a specialist if you feel stuck on these issues. Over 50% of people with polycystic ovary syndrome also suffer from depression. This includes men too.

Polycystic ovary syndrome affects the way your body functions. Having multiple cysts also makes it harder to have regular periods, which can put extra strain on you mentally. Taking care of the other organs, such as the liver, can also become difficult for some people. And, of course, polycystic ovary syndrome itself is not the only reason why you are feeling tired all the time.

What can I do to reduce the chances of developing polycystic ovary syndrome?

If you think you might already have polycystic ovary syndrome, it’s advised that you speak to a nurse specialist who can work out which types of treatment are right for you. Also, if you notice any signs of hormonal imbalance, talk to your GP to ensure that it doesn't affect your ovulation rate and doesn't interfere with anything you are meant to do.

Tips for managing polycystic ovary syndrome

You might be wondering whether you can control polycystic ovary syndrome by changing your lifestyle. Luckily, there are ways to bring some control into your own hands. For example, losing some weight is one way to address the issue of insulin resistance. Another option would be taking dietary supplements. We'll go over exactly what you can do for yourself in this section, making it easy for you to find the solution to your polycystic ovary syndrome.

Lose Weight

It might seem counter-intuitive to lose weight for something like polycystic ovary syndrome, but it’s a good idea. Losing weight regularly will help to keep your insulin level normal and reduce your chances of suffering an episode of hyperglycemia, such as Type 2 Diabetes.

If you're not able to get healthy fats from your diet — meaning eating whole foods rich in vitamins, minerals and fibre — then consider taking nutritional supplements. There are many options available in the market, which will give you plenty of reasons to stick to your weight loss plans. Try adding olive oil or flaxseed oil to your daily diet to boost your fat intake — they might even help your fertility. Many popular polycystic ovary syndrome supplements contain vitamins, which may offer some benefits, like improving bone density and lowering high blood pressure. Always consult your general practitioner first, though, if you're looking for specific information on how to use supplements for PCOS or if you'd prefer to try them before talking to your GP. A natural polycystic ovary syndrome supplement can include ingredients like magnesium, calcium, zinc and vitamin C. These items offer help in maintaining a proper balance between the different hormones responsible for regulating a woman's menstrual cycle.

Eat Healthy Fats

One huge benefit of polycystic ovary syndrome is the amount of weight gain that comes with it. Aside from being overweight, your PCOS puts additional demands on your energy levels. Eating unhealthy unhealthy fats increases insulin release. So while losing weight might have a positive effect on your PCOS, it’s important to try to avoid consuming lots of processed foods and sugar-sweetened beverages which tend to increase inflammation and cause your body to react quickly through stress hormones like cortisol. Instead, try to stay away from fried foods, oily snacks and greasy foods altogether for healthier options.

Reduce Stress Levels

Although many patients experience anxiety because of their condition, it’s best to seek professional help from a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist if that’s what you need to manage your emotional state. Because polycystic ovary syndrome is often linked to lower sex drive, you can get frustrated easily if you lose interest in sex. However, you can also deal with depression, especially if your PCOS leads to anxiety attacks. Talking to a trusted expert can be a great tool to help you manage your concerns and provide you with support at times where you’re feeling down.

Try Exercise Regularly

The recommended daily exercise for people with polycystic ovary syndrome is 30-60 minutes per day to support the muscles and cardiovascular system. Most gyms offer various classes that include exercises such as yoga, pilates, tai chi and meditation. Of course, doing those sessions can be uncomfortable. That’s why it’s extremely important to choose an activity that suits your interests, body shape and physical ability. Doing activities that involve movement, like biking, running or dancing, will not only help you burn calories and build strength, but it also helps to improve oxygen levels in your bloodstream. Plus, you’ll never really feel exhausted, and you’ll feel fantastic afterwards.

Get Comfortable Using Natural Remedies

You can also consider using supplements such as OTC anti-inflammatory herbs or herbal medication for your polycystic ovary syndrome — or finding a holistic therapist instead! Some methods that are said to help with PCOS include green tea, ginger and turmeric. All of these plants boast properties that make them effective for reducing inflammation and decreasing symptoms, including mood and depression. Turmeric has been used to treat PCOS for decades now. Even though it’s widely seen as safe, studies on its effectiveness are relatively scarce. However, research shows that turmeric can be extremely helpful in managing symptoms, like insomnia, acne and increased appetite. Ginger is also known to have beneficial properties for PCOS, although more research is needed to understand exactly which substances it contains. Furthermore, more studies are needed to confirm how effective ginger is as a treatment. Research that focuses on curcumin, which is present in turmeric, could also help us figure out whether it is worth considering for our next step in treating PCOS. It’s also worth noting that a balanced diet is absolutely essential to help regulate the level of estrogen, another hormone involved in PCOS. In short, the point is to ensure that you eat nutritious food that will help you maintain a clear and constant flow of energy throughout your day.

A Word From Verywell

If you're ever thinking about trying out PCOS, speak with your gynaecologist — you might be surprised by just how helpful supplements (especially turmeric) can be. Just remember to always talk to your expert before starting anything new or trying a supplement.