Medically Verified By: Dr. Archana Dhawan Bajaj
PCOS (Image AI Generated)
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is only considered a hormonal problem these days. It is associated by many with irregular periods, acne, facial hair, or fertility problems. But today health officials are saying that it's more than that. It's tied closely to metabolism, mental health, sleep, diet, stress and daily lifestyle habits.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that up to 10 13% of women of reproductive age worldwide have PCOS and a significant number of these are undiagnosed. Medical conversations in recent years have also advocated the renaming of PCOS to PMOS as the condition affects more than only the overies.
According to Dr Archana Dhawan Bajaj, Gynaecologist and IVF expert, Nurture IVF Clinic, "There are multiple factors that contribute to the development of PCOS including hormonal imbalance, insulin resistance, genetics, lifestyle, and inflammation. As per Mayo Clinic experts, insulin resistance is a critical factor in many women with PCOS. In the absence of proper insulin use in the body, insulin levels in the blood can increase and lead to the body making more male hormones (androgens)."
This can lead to symptoms such as:
It can also lead to type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, fatty liver disease, sleep apnea, anxiety and depression, though.
Poor Diet And Excess Sugar Intake
An unbalanced diet is one of the largest lifestyle influences that is associated with PCOS. Refined carbohydrates, sugary beverages, processed foods and fried foods can exacerbate insulin resistance and inflammation.
According to a study and recommendations from experts, a balanced diet containing whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats, fruits and vegetables would help improve insulin sensitivity. Women suffering from PCOS are advised to:
A well balanced diet can influence periods, energy levels and weight.
Lack of Physical Activity
A lack of activity is also a significant factor. Exercise also increases insulin sensitivity, promotes hormonal balance and can help decrease inflammation. Experts say that frequent exercise can also benefit:
But women don't have to work out very hard! 30-45 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week can help, such as brisk walking, yoga, cycling, swimming, or strength training.
Stress And Mental Health Matter Too
Stress is a factor in PCOS that is often understated. When the body is in chronic stress, it may raise the cortisol levels, leading to exacerbation of hormonal imbalance and inflammation. Other common symptoms of PCOS include:
Stress Management Strategies include:
Mental health care should be a part of PCOS treatment and not an add-on.
Poor Sleep Can Affect Hormones
The quality of sleep also has a big impact on the stability of hormones and metabolism. Not sleeping well can exacerbate insulin resistance, cravings, fatigue, and mood changes. Additionally, women with PCOS may have an increased risk of sleep apnea, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Experts suggest:
Improved sleep patterns can have a positive effect on physical and emotional symptoms.
Weight gain is a common complaint among women with PCOS, despite their healthy lifestyle. This is because insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances can impact the body's energy storage and utilization processes.
Experts emphasize that women's symptoms should not be blamed on the woman. The focus is not just on quick weight loss but achieving long-term metabolic health and sustainable habits. Some women may see a benefit in menstruation, insulin levels, and fertility results even if they lose just a few pounds.
Recent studies indicate that environmental factors like pollution, endocrine disrupting chemicals, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and diet may affect the health of hormones.
Eating social media 'quick fixes' and taking supplements without proper verification is also not advised in the treatment of PCOS, experts warn. The symptom varies from woman to woman and treatment needs to be tailored to the individual.
Delayed diagnosis is one big problem associated with PCOS. Women often experience irregular periods, acne and sudden weight gain for years and years without knowing what is wrong with them.
Living with PCOS, a large number of women in the world go undiagnosed, according to WHO. If it is diagnosed early, you may be less likely to develop the following complications:
Women should see a doctor if there is persistent irregularity in their periods, weight loss or gain, any increased facial hair or severe acne.
Now, experts believe that there should be a comprehensive approach to the treatment of PCOS or PMOS that includes:
The newer term PMOS also indicates the awareness that this condition does not only impact reproductive health, but the overall body as well.
PCOS or PMOS is more than a hormonal problem. This is a metabolic and lifestyle disease that can impact on physical, emotional and long-term health. Medicines can help control symptoms, but simple habits can also make a difference.
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