Updated: 9/28/23
Are you struggling with the physical and emotional symptoms brought on by Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)? If your hormones are out of balance in a way that affects your periods, skin, fertility, weight, and other body functions or parts then you may be one of the millions of women around the world dealing with PCOS. While there is no single answer to this difficult condition – which can be immensely stressful emotionally and physically — understanding how it works while looking for natural treatments to improve your health can help you get relief from the uncomfortable effects of PCOS. In this blog post we’ll explore different ways to end annoying PCOS symptoms!
What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?
Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a hormonal problem affecting women mainly between 15-45 years. This condition mostly goes unnoticed by many women, unless they experience extreme levels of pain, fatigue and other symptoms. Impacting women mostly in their childbearing stages, PCOS can greatly impact their chances of getting pregnant. As a majority of women often receive a diagnosis with PCOS quite later in life, it disrupts their normal menstrual cycle and therefore their chances of getting pregnant naturally.
In polycystic ovary syndrome, cysts or small fluid-containing sacs grow in the ovaries. This is what gives the condition its name, as polycystic means “multiple cysts.” The many sacs in the ovaries contain an immature egg, which will never develop properly to become a fertile egg. PCOS is also associated with higher levels of male hormones and irregular periods. The major causes of PCOS reflect fluctuating hormones and unhealthy, sedentary lifestyles.
Also known as the Stein-Leventhal syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome affects 8-20 percent of women worldwide in their reproductive years and is often found to be the leading cause of infertility and other problems. If one is diagnosed with PCOS, then she is also at high risk of developing associated diseases like insulin resistance, type-2 diabetes, high cholesterol, heart attack and high blood pressure.
PCOS Symptoms
Mostly, the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome go unattended. By the time they receive diagnosis, it is often too late. The majority of PCOS symptoms are by enormous levels of androgens in the body — the main one being male hormones. While there are small amounts of androgens in all women, in some, the levels are higher, leading to PCOS. This condition, in turn, leads to lower ovulation levels and irregular periods. The most common symptoms of PCOS are below:
Irregular Periods
One of the most common symptoms of PCOS is irregular periods. This absence/irregularity in periods can be a result of high androgens levels and insulin. In women with PCOS, as the gap between periods lengthens, their ovulation may stop entirely while some women can experience heavy/light bleeding during their periods.
Low Fertility
Women who are trying to conceive are often diagnosed with PCOS as low fertility is a common symptom of this condition. As the ovulation becomes irregular with PCOS, the production of eggs comes down drastically in women, thus causing low fertility. This can be a major cause of concern among women trying to get pregnant.
Excess Hair
Another symptom of PCOS is excess hair. This condition is known as hirsutism. This usually occurs due to the high androgen levels in the body. The excess hair is usually thicker and darker and grows in areas like the sideburn region, chin and upper lip, lower abdomen, chest and thighs. Nearly 60 percent of women suffering from PCOS have this condition, which is one of the most visible symptoms of PCOS.
Excessive Hair Loss
Excessive hair loss is possible as well. The high male hormone levels in the female body often lead to hair loss and thinning of the scalp, just like how it occurs in men — hair loss from the front, etc. This condition is, in medical terms, known as alopecia.
Weight Gain
PCOS can also lead to weight gain, especially around the midsection. Due to insulin resistance, women with PCOS are more likely to gain weight, even if they exercise and follow a healthy diet. This weight gain can make it even more challenging to manage other symptoms of PCOS. To manage weight gain, your doctor may prescribe medications to improve insulin sensitivity, such as metformin, and encourage a healthy diet and exercise routine.
Acne
The high levels of androgens in the female body can also increase the size of the oil production glands present in the skin, which can lead to more acne. This condition is usually present in young women, but those suffering from PCOS tend to have more acne. A dermatologist can help you manage these symptoms and provide additional treatments as needed.
Anxiety and Depression
The PCOS condition is likely to have psychological effects on the affected women as well. About 29 percent of women with PCOS are likely to have anxiety attacks. These changes are due to hormonal imbalances caused by PCOS.
If a person is experiencing any or some of the symptoms, then she must immediately consult a doctor as these are the symptoms of PCOS. A delayed diagnosis of PCOS can lead to many health problems and also cause stress. The psychological burden of managing multiple symptoms can be overwhelming, and the hormonal changes can worsen mood disorders. If you’re experiencing mood disorders, it’s essential to talk to your doctor and get the support you need.
Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Painful?
In most cases, PCOS is not painful. However, it is possible for some women with PCOS to experience pain or discomfort in the pelvic area. This pain is with the cysts that form on the ovaries. In rare cases, the cysts may rupture, which can cause sudden and severe pain. If you experience sudden and severe pelvic pain, seek medical attention immediately.
Can Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Cause Weight Gain?
Insulin resistance is a common issue among women with PCOS and can also lead to weight gain. Insulin resistance occurs when cells become less responsive to insulin, which can result in high blood sugar levels. The body then produces more insulin to try and regulate the blood sugar levels, which can lead to weight gain. Additionally, insulin resistance can cause the body to store fat, particularly around the abdomen area.
Can Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Cause Infertility?
PCOS can have a significant impact on a person’s ability to conceive, as it can cause irregular ovulation or prevent ovulation altogether. When the body does not ovulate, it’s impossible to get pregnant. Additionally, due to hormonal imbalances, women with PCOS may have fewer eggs of poor quality, making it harder to conceive even when ovulation occurs regularly.
Causes of PCOS
Although the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, it is likely due to a combination of factors, including genetics, insulin resistance, inflammation, and hormonal imbalances.
High Androgen Levels
Also known as male hormones, androgens are one of the main reasons PCOS occurs. Usually, women produce small amounts of androgens, but those with PCOS produce more than normal, which affects their ovulation and menstrual cycle and can cause excess hair growth and more acne.
Increased Insulin Levels
Insulin is a very important hormone of the body as it controls the way the food we eat converts into energy. When the body does not normally respond to insulin, your insulin blood sugar levels escalate. This condition is one of the reasons why women develop PCOS, which can lead to type 2 diabetes.
Inflammation
Inflammation is the body’s response to injury, stress, and infection. However, chronic inflammation can cause damage to the body’s tissues. Studies have shown that women with PCOS have higher levels of inflammation markers in their bodies compared to women without the condition. The inflammation can cause insulin resistance, leading to hormonal imbalances that trigger PCOS.
Genetics
Genetics is one of the leading causes of polycystic ovary syndrome among women all over the world. If any of your family members have PCOS, then the chances of you developing the condition are high. Women with family members having PCOS inherit the risk of the condition more than women who do not have PCOS history. In fact, it is estimated that PCOS is inherited in up to 70% of cases. Certain genes may predispose women to develop PCOS, such as those responsible for insulin resistance and hormone production.
Sedentary Lifestyle
Polycystic ovary syndrome is often a direct correlation of modern-day sedentary lifestyles. With increasing obesity and little movement, more women are developing PCOS and experiencing menstrual changes and infertility. Unhealthy lifestyle habits like poor diet, lack of exercise, and stress can contribute to the development of PCOS. A diet high in refined carbohydrates and sugar can cause insulin resistance, which can lead to PCOS. Lack of exercise can also lead to weight gain, which is a risk factor for PCOS.
Environmental Factors
Exposure to certain environmental factors such as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can interfere with the body’s hormones, leading to PCOS. EDCs are found in plastics, pesticides, cosmetics, and other synthetic products. These chemicals can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body, leading to hormonal imbalance that triggers PCOS.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Pregnancy
For women with PCOS who do become pregnant, there are some increased risks. Women with PCOS are at higher risk for gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, and preterm labor. They are also more likely to have a miscarriage in the first trimester. However, with careful monitoring and management, many women with PCOS are able to have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies.
Managing PCOS during pregnancy requires a multidisciplinary approach. Women with PCOS should work closely with their obstetrician, endocrinologist, and a registered dietitian. A registered dietitian can help women with PCOS manage their weight and blood sugar levels during pregnancy. Women with PCOS should also monitor for gestational diabetes, which can be more common in women with PCOS.
Can Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Go Away?
PCOS cannot be cured, but it can be managed effectively with early diagnosis and treatment. Although some women may experience a temporary relief of symptoms, PCOS does not go away after pregnancy or menopause. Management may include lifestyle changes, medication, and regular monitoring of symptoms. It is important to debunk the myths surrounding PCOS and raise awareness about this common condition that affects millions of women worldwide.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Treatment
As of now, modern medicine has no cure for polycystic ovary syndrome, so any treatment will benefit resulting conditions like infertility, obesity and acne, among others. The most commonly suggested treatment options are lifestyle changes and certain medicines.
Lifestyle Changes
The best cure for PCOS is to foster different changes to your lifestyle. An active lifestyle, including weight loss through a low-calorie diet, will definitely help counter your PCOS problems and thus go a long way in solving your fertility problems. If you are overweight and struggling with PCOS issues, then try to lose weight (x).
Medication
While there are no specific medicines for PCOS, doctors may recommend medicines for different related issues like irregular periods and reduced ovulation, among others. Learn more about these medicines below:
Birth Control Pills
To correct the irregular menstrual cycle of women with PCOS, doctors may prescribe birth control pills, which contain estrogen and progestin to bring down the levels of androgen. These birth control pills can control unnatural bleeding, excess hair growth and acne. Women can also make use of a skin patch/vaginal ring, which includes a mix of estrogen and progestin.
Progestin Therapy
Another way of controlling the irregular menstrual cycle is by taking progestin tablets. The doctor may recommend a dosage of progestin for 10-14 days every 1-2 months to streamline the periods and safeguard against endometrial cancer. The tablets, however, have no impact against the high androgen levels.
Supplements for PCOS
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a spice that is commonly used in cooking and baking. However, it is famous for its medicinal properties. Studies have shown that cinnamon can help reduce insulin resistance and blood sugar levels in women with PCOS. It can also aid in weight loss and regulate menstrual cycles. You can take cinnamon in capsule or powder form or sprinkle it on your food.
Chasteberry
Chasteberry, also known as Vitex, is a herbal supplement that is derived from the fruit of the Chaste tree. It treats hormonal imbalances in women. Chasteberry can help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce acne, and relieve PMS symptoms. It is available in capsule or tincture form.
Inositol
Inositol is a type of sugar that is found in high concentrations in the brain and other tissues. It plays a role in insulin signaling and may improve insulin sensitivity in women with PCOS. Additionally, some studies have found that inositol supplementation may improve ovulation and reduce symptoms of hirsutism (excess facial or body hair) in women with PCOS. Inositol can be found in foods like beans, nuts, and citrus fruits, but it can also be taken as a supplement.
Maca Root Extract
PCOS can cause depression. Luckily, maca root extract may be able to ease this symptom. Maca root extract can also improve fertility and ease symptoms of menopause.
Magnesium
Since some who experience PCOS suffer from insulin resistance, it’s possible that supplementing with magnesium could help ease the condition. It isn’t uncommon for those with diabetes to have low levels of magnesium in their system. Thankfully, supplementing with magnesium can render that concern null and void.
Saw Palmetto
Saw Palmetto is an herbal supplement that is extracted from the fruit of the saw palmetto plant. It has been traditionally used to treat urinary and reproductive problems in men. However, it is also beneficial for women with PCOS. Saw palmetto can help lower androgen levels in women, which can alleviate symptoms such as acne, excess hair growth, and hair loss. It is available in capsule form and take it daily.
The Bottom Line
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. It is a common condition that affects about one in ten women globally, but not everyone is aware of it. Besides causing reproductive problems, PCOS can cause other health issues like insulin resistance, weight gain, and type 2 diabetes. The exact cause of PCOS remains unknown, but experts have identified some factors that contribute to the condition.
For women trying to conceive, early detection of PCOS is paramount as medicines and injections may be administered. Those who with PCOS should always keep themselves engaged, maintain a healthy diet and undertake some form of exercise to keep themselves healthy.
However, it’s always a good idea to speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements. Additionally, it’s important to remember that supplements are not a substitute for healthy lifestyle habits, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management. With the right combination of supplements and lifestyle changes, you can take control of your PCOS and improve your overall health and wellbeing.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease
