What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a hormone imbalance disorder that can affect women of childbearing age. The ovaries produce the hormones, estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle. Women with PCOS have higher than normal levels of testosterone, which can cause irregular periods, excessive hair growth, and acne. PCOS can also make it difficult to become pregnant.

There is no single cause of PCOS, but it is thought to be related to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance occurs when the body does not properly use the hormone insulin. This can lead to high levels of insulin in the blood, which can trigger the ovaries to produce more testosterone. PCOS is also believed to be hereditary, so if your mother or sister has it, you are at greater risk of developing it yourself.

Symptoms of PCOS

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women of childbearing age., excess hair growth, acne, and obesity. PCOS can also lead to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. While there is no cure for PCOS, it can be managed with lifestyle changes and medication. The most common symptoms include.

irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, obesity, insulin resistance

Prevention: Diet & Lifestyle Changes for Managing PCOS

There is no one-size-fits-all diet for managing PCOS, but there are some general dietary and lifestyle changes that can help. Firstly, eating a nutritious diet rich in whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats is important for managing any chronic health condition. This type of diet can help to regulate insulin levels, manage weight, and reduce inflammation.

In addition to a healthy diet, regular exercise is also key for managing PCOS. Exercise can help to reduce insulin resistance, lower testosterone levels, and improve ovulation. And lastly, reducing stress levels is also important for managing PCOS. Stress can cause hormone imbalances which can contribute to the symptoms of PCOS. So finding ways to manage stress through yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can be helpful.

There are treatments that can help manage the symptoms and improve your Quality of life. If you think you might have PCOS, it's important to see your doctor for a diagnosis.