Polycystic ovarian syndrome, or PCOS, has become a major public health concern in recent years. It is a prevalent lifestyle disease associated with an increase in unhealthy habits, poor eating habits, and a sedentary lifestyle. Genetics is thought to play a role as well.
In India, the number of women suffering from PCOS has risen dramatically in recent years. It affects 4 to 20% of women of reproductive age around the world. According to the findings of a large-scale survey done across India in 2020, roughly 16 per cent of women aged 20 to 29 years old have PCOS. Since then, the number has only risen, and women are grappling with how to deal with it
What is PCOS?
PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) is a hormonal disorder that affects a large number of women who are of reproductive age. PCOS is characterised by abnormal or extended menstrual periods, as well as elevated levels of the male hormone androgen. Essentially, it is a hormonal disorder.
You must have come across the terms “PCOD” and “PCOS” being used interchangeably. PCOD occurs when the ovaries produce a large number of immature or partially mature eggs as a result of a bad lifestyle, obesity, stress, or hormonal imbalance. PCOS, on the other hand, is a metabolic disease that can lead to anovulation, in which the ovaries stop producing eggs.
What causes PCOS?
PCOS hasn’t been determined as to what causes it. PCOS can be caused by a number of different factors. Here are a few examples:
- Excess insulin or insulin resistance
- Inflammation
- Genetic causes
- Excessive androgen (male hormone)
- Thyroid imbalances
- Chronic stress
- Poor diet
- Lack of physical activity
- Exposure to endocrine-disrupting elements
Symptoms: How to identify if you have PCOS?
There are a number of symptoms that make PCOS easier to recognise. The following are some of the most common indications and symptoms of PCOS:
- Hair development in parts of the body where it is not desired. This is also known as hirsutism.
- PCOD can cause unwanted hair to develop on your face, breasts, stomach, etc., among other places. Another issue is hair thinning and hair loss, which can get worse with time.
- PCOS can cause oily skin and acne owing to hormonal fluctuations. It can also cause a disorder called acanthosis nigricans, which causes darkening of the skin in specific areas.
- Sleeping difficulties or a constant sense of exhaustion. You may find it difficult to get a good night’s sleep. Insomnia and sleep apnea are two of the most commonly found symptoms, along with excessive daytime sleepiness due to insulin resistance.
- Severe headaches and migraines are some of the most common complaints of people suffering from PCOS. The high levels of hormones that induce PCOS can produce severe headaches.
- The menstrual cycle can be thrown off by PCOS, which might include severe bleeding and numerous periods. One of the most noticeable signs of PCOS is irregular periods. It’s possible that you won’t have a period, or that it will be irregular.
- It’s tough to get pregnant if you don’t have regular cycles. PCOS is also one of the most common reasons for infertility in women.
- Weight gain or loss is difficult for most women with PCOS. Weight gain is a common side effect of PCOS. Obesity can exacerbate PCOS symptoms. Following a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight will help you keep cholesterol and blood sugar in check, both of which tend to get jeopardised due to PCOS.
PCOS can cause infertility, diabetes, hypertension during pregnancy, miscarriages, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, insomnia, sleep apnea, depression, anxiety, endometrial cancer, and even metabolic syndrome, which manifests itself as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and triglycerides, putting your heart health at risk. Women with PCOS have a hard time losing weight because their hormones are out of balance, which has a detrimental influence on their bodies. Obesity is linked to PCOS and can exacerbate its symptoms.
Can PCOS be cured?
PCOS cannot be cured with a single medication. Since lifestyle plays a key role in determining the severity of this condition, along with other factors, it can only be managed by following a healthy and active lifestyle. You should get in touch with your doctor for the diagnosis and treatment of PCOS. Treatments can help you manage your symptoms and reduce your risk of developing long-term health issues like diabetes and heart disease. Getting rid of those kilos will also benefit you in the long run. Aside from this, you can take supplements like CBD oil India to help you manage conditions like depression and sleep apnea, which are common side effects of PCOS.
Diet
Whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, fruits, starchy vegetables, and other unprocessed, low-carbohydrate foods should make up the majority of your diet. A low-carbohydrate or low-GI diet can aid in insulin metabolism and cholesterol reduction. Because carbohydrates are converted into sugar, it’s best to keep your carb intake to a minimum. Avoid refined carbohydrates, such as white flour, rice, potatoes, and sugar, which are present in processed foods. Sugary drinks, such as soda and juice, should also be avoided.
Exercise
Regular exercise and physical activity are of the utmost importance when it comes to curing and reversing PCOS. Exercise aids in the reduction of insulin resistance by burning calories and increasing muscle mass. Exercise can also aid in the reduction of cholesterol as well as other hormone levels, such as testosterone.
Holistic Healing
Another effective alternative for PCOS treatment can be found in Ayurveda. Ayurvedic treatment for PCOS usually consists of a combination of medicines, treatments, and dietary adjustments. Ayurveda employs herbs like ashwagandha and turmeric, as well as therapies like yoga and breathing exercises, to heal the body from the inside out by restoring dosha equilibrium. Ayurveda also recommends using CBD to treat inflammation, which is both a cause and a symptom of PCOS. CBD oil India has a therapeutic effect on hormone balance, neurotransmitter function, metabolism, and neurological activity, all of which are impacted by PCOS.
CBD has also been associated with a lower risk of endometrial cancer, which is associated with PCOS. The most important effects of CBD for PCOS are its ability to regulate insulin levels, as well as its ability to encourage weight loss and support other PCOS side effects such as anxiety. Expect nothing to happen overnight while using CBD for PCOS. You must, however, be sure that supplement use does not interfere with any of your other drugs. Before you start taking any supplements, it is better to consult your doctor regarding the same.
Conclusion
PCOS is a difficult disorder to understand. While there is no cure, there are a number of orthodox and alternative treatments that can help manage the symptoms and any complications. Because the severity of PCOS varies from person to person, treatment techniques are very individualised. Furthermore, because weight gain is a common sign of PCOS, maintaining a healthy BMI is essential. Weight gain is linked to PCOS due to the body’s inability to properly use insulin, which can lead to weight gain. As a result, the majority of women’s treatment plans incorporate developing a healthy food and exercise routine. If you believe you are experiencing PCOS symptoms, we strongly suggest you see your doctor first.