PCOS, or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, is a common hormonal endocrine disorder that affects women all over the world. According to the PCOS Foundation (PCOSF), the condition has been diagnosed and recognized for over seventy five years. Currently, PCOS still cannot be diagnosed with just one test, as symptoms vary from one woman to another.
Known to be a "silent killer", the PCOS Foundation reveals that the condition is linked to an increased risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease are also associated with PCOS.
Unfortunately, there is not one specific cure identified for PCOS; however, lifestyle changes can make a great impact on alleviating symptoms.
PCOSF, in their advocacy to help women with PCOS understand, deal with, and manage their symptoms, shares the following information.
Common symptoms of PCOS
• Irregular menstrual cycles (oligomenorrhea)
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Hirsutism- excess hair growth on face and body
• Sleep apnea
• High cholesterol and high triglycerides
• Darkened patches of skin (acanthosis nigricans)
• Multiple follicles (cysts) on the ovaries
• Increase in stress levels
• High blood pressure
• Skin tags
• Infertility
• Fatigue
• Thinning hair (male pattern balding)
• Insulin resistance
• Type 2 Diabetes
• Pelvic pain
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Decreased sex drive
Health Risks
• Diabetes
• Infertility
• High Cholesterol
• High Lipids
• Apnea
• Liver disease
• Higher risk of Endometrial cancer
• Higher risk of Gestational diabetes
• 4 to 7 times higher risk of heart attacks
• Higher rate of Miscarriages
• High Blood Pressure or Hypertension
• Obesity, which may lead to low self-esteem and depression
PCOS Management Types
• Insulin sensitizing medication
• Weight loss
• Medications for increased hair growth or extra male hormone
• Fertility treatments: Ovulation cycles, Inseminations, In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
• Fertility medications
• Surgery or procedures: Ovarian drilling, Oophorectomy, Hysterectomy, Cyst aspiration
• Lifestyle modifications: Nutrition education, Modifying your diet, Exercise, Non smoking, Meditation for anxiety, breathing, depression and stress
• Other Treatments: Laser hair removal, Hormonal treatments, Alternative methods, Vitamins and minerals