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Strategies for Managing Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

Dr.Ayushi Bansal 698 Views
Updated: 26 Apr 2024
Published: 26 Apr 2024

When a woman has Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, also known as PCOS, multiple small-sized cysts develop in her ovaries. However, one thing to remember, some women without PCOS may develop cysts, while some women with PCOS do not. A woman may not produce enough of the hormones required for ovulation under certain situations, and in the event that ovulation is unsuccessful, the ovaries may grow several little cysts. 

Androgens are the hormones produced by these cysts, and that is the reason high levels of testosterone are common in PCOS-affected women. Their bodies skip menstruation because of this hormone imbalance, which also makes it more difficult for women to conceive. Baldness and facial and body hair development are additional effects of PCOS, and the condition may exacerbate chronic health issues, including diabetes and heart disease.

In the event that your physician suspects PCOS, they could advise you to undergo a PCOS blood test to determine if you have it. A polycystic ovary syndrome test is the best way to create a treatment plan that suits the needs of the patient.

What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome?

The condition known as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal imbalance brought on by an overabundance of hormones produced by the ovaries. Your ovaries create androgens (male hormones) in abnormally large amounts if you have PCOS, and your reproductive hormones fall out of balance as a result, causing irregular menstrual cycles, and uncertain ovulation. The absence of ovulation can cause small follicular cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs containing immature eggs, to form on the ovaries. A polycystic ovary syndrome test is the most accurate way to determine if you have this condition, and doctors often recommend it to women dealing with menstruation issues. One of the most frequent reasons for infertility in women is PCOS, and it may make you more susceptible to other illnesses. Your doctor can treat PCOS depending on your symptoms, but they will require confirmation through a PCOS blood test that you have this disease.

Strategies for Managing PCOS

1. Reduce Sugar and Carb Intake : Insulin resistance, a condition in which the body fails to use the hormone insulin as intended, is common in women with PCOS. The pancreas secretes insulin, which allows the body to utilize glucose, or sugar, from food as fuel, and it also aids in controlling blood sugar levels. A doctor could advise consuming a diet reduced in sugar and simple carbs to deal with insulin resistance, and they may even give you a diet chart after performing a polycystic ovary syndrome test. A diverse range of foods from many dietary categories, including lean meats like chicken, fish, vegetables, and fruits, as well as high-fiber grains, make up the optimal diet. Physicians recommend concentrating on diets with low glycemic index and low sugar and fat content for women with PCOS. Foods with a low glycemic index help your body use food as energy instead of storing it as fat by releasing insulin gradually and evenly. Compared to processed carbs, whole grains have a higher fiber content and won't significantly impact your blood sugar levels.

2. Exercise :  Exercise can reduce the symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome, and it may lower the amount of testosterone in your blood in addition to aiding in weight reduction. Approximately 50% of PCOS patients are overweight, so losing weight can enhance your insulin resistance, boost ovulation, and increase your fertility. It is advised to engage in intense exercise for at least 120 minutes per week.

  • Resistance training : Resistance training might enhance insulin sensitivity in diabetics, it may also benefit those who have polycystic ovarian syndrome.‌ After a positive report from a polycystic ovary syndrome test, many women are told to practice resistance training. 
  • Yoga : There is evidence connecting polycystic ovarian syndrome to a higher risk of mental health issues, and that is the reason exercises like yoga that calms the mind are beneficial.  
  • Low-intensity exercises : The ideal kind of workout is one you will consistently perform, and for many women, low-intensity exercises remain the only option for daily training. Swimming and brisk walking are examples of low-intensity exercise and can be performed even by overweight people. If you have taken a PCOS hormone test and received the bad news, you should immediately start these exercises. 

3. Eat a Balanced Diet : 

High insulin levels are thought to exacerbate the risk of problems and increase androgens in women with PCOS, but a healthy diet might assist you in controlling the symptoms. Increasing your dietary fiber intake will assist you in overcoming insulin resistance, and it is recommended that women consume between 20 and 25 grams of fiber daily. Foods high in dietary fiber include beans, lentils, broccoli, green peas, berries, nuts, etc. 

According to research, women with PCOS have a particular kind of inflammation that causes their ovaries to release more androgens. Consuming anti-inflammatory foods such as taters, green leafy veggies, walnuts, almonds, and fatty acid-rich fish may be beneficial. After confirming the condition through a polycystic ovary syndrome test or PCOS hormone test, many women are suggested these types of diets.

PCOS Management with Medication

PCOS has no known cure, but your doctor may prescribe medications to address your symptoms. Some of these treatments are: 

  • Hormonal birth control : Your doctor may recommend hormonal birth control, such as the patch, pill, or hormonal IUD if you don't intend to become pregnant. Progesterone, estrogen, or both may be present in them, and in addition to helping with acne and excess body hair, they can help regulate your periods and reduce your risk of endometrial cancer.
  • Progestin therapy : This hormone can lower your risk of developing uterine cancer and help your menstrual cycle return to normal. However, it does not lower testosterone levels or prevent pregnancy.
  • Metformin : Insulin levels can be lowered with the medication metformin, which treats type 2 diabetes. It can assist with ovulation and menstrual issues, but it is not FDA-approved for the treatment of PCOS.
  • Androgen inhibitors : These medications inhibit the effects of excess male hormones, which can lead to acne and undesired hair growth.

Final Remarks

Women with PCOS form small cysts in their ovaries that cause irregular menstrual cycles and pregnancy issues. There are no cures for this condition, but if you practice certain lifestyle changes, you may control the illness and reduce its symptoms. Taking a polycystic ovary syndrome test is the best way to find out if you have PCOS. Contact Pathkind Lab and book an appointment for a test for accurate results and faster turnaround times.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

  1. At what age PCOS starts? 

    Answer:- PCOS is often diagnosed in teenagers and young adults, however, some women with non-prominent symptoms find out that they have PCOS when attempting to conceive.

  2. Is PCOS a common illness?

    Answer:- Yes, PCOS affects millions of women worldwide and is considered a common illness. As a matter of fact, up to fifteen percent of women who are of reproductive age have PCOS, indicating how widespread PCOS is.

  3. Can PCOS occur without symptoms?

    Answer:- It is true that PCOS can exist without any symptoms, and many women don't even become aware they have the illness until they experience difficulty becoming pregnant or start accumulating weight for no apparent reason.

  4. How does one manage polycystic ovarian syndrome?

    Answer:- Treatment will be decided by your healthcare practitioner depending on your symptoms, medical history, other health issues, and desire to become pregnant. 

  5. Is there a permanent cure for PCOS?

    Answer:- No, there is no permanent cure for this condition, however, your doctor can help you manage your symptoms. With proper treatment, PCOS effects may lessen over time, making you less conscious of the illness.

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