Empowering Women with PCOS: Navigating Symptoms and Finding Relief

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a condition where you have few, unusual, or very long periods. It often results in having too much of a male hormone called androgen. Many small sacs of fluid develop on the ovaries. They may fail to regularly release eggs. hence it affects the fertility of women, bringing difficulty in getting pregnant.

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and PCOD (Polycystic Ovary Disease) are often used interchangeably, but they are slightly different conditions.PCOD is a condition where the ovaries contain multiple small cysts or follicles, which can interfere with ovulation and cause hormonal imbalances. It is a condition that is primarily diagnosed through imaging tests, such as an ultrasound. On the other hand, PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age.PCOS is often diagnosed based on symptoms and may involve blood tests to measure hormone levels.

In this article, we are going to learn about the symptoms of PCOS and help you find relief from the same

Common symptoms of PCOS include:

• Irregular periods or no periods at all.
•  Difficulty getting pregnant (because of irregular ovulation or no ovulation).
• Excessive hair growth (hirsutism) – usually on the face, chest, back, or buttocks.
• Weight gain.
• Thinning of hair and hair loss from the head.
• Oily skin or acne.
• Sharp stabbing sensation, or even a dull ache that persists over time.

It's common for women to find out they have PCOS when they have trouble getting pregnant, but it often begins soon after the first menstrual period, as young as age 11 or 12. It can also develop in the 20s or 30s. So keep a check if you are facing any of the above symptoms.

Treatment for PCOS

While there is no cure for PCOS, there are several treatments available that can help manage the symptoms. Treatment options may include:

Birth control pills: Birth control pills can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce excess hair growth and acne.

Metformin: Metformin is a medication commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes, but it can also help manage the symptoms of PCOS.

Lifestyle changes: Making lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise, can help manage the symptoms of PCOS and improve overall health.

Fertility treatments: Women with PCOS who are struggling to conceive may benefit from fertility treatments such as ovulation induction or in vitro fertilization (IVF).

A few habits to adopt to improve your lifestyle - Get relief from symptoms of PCOS, such as:-

1.  DIET CHANGES- 
   • whole grains instead of processed food
   • Balance carb and protein intake
   • Say no to oily and fried food, shift to healthy fats instead.
   • Add in some fiber to help with digestion
   • Cut out caffeine, and coffee from your diet, or limit the intake.
   • Practice Mindful Eating
   • Limit Processed Foods and Added Sugars.
2. INCLUDE SUPPLEMENTS (But only after asking your gynecologist.)
   • Start Combined vitamin D and calcium
   • Magnesium and iron
   • Cinnamon and turmeric
   • Cod liver oil
   • Zinc
   • Omega 3 fatty acids
3. MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT - INCLUDE EXERCISE IN YOUR DAILY ROUTINE
4. REDUCE STRESS AND MAINTAIN GOOD SLEEP HYGIENE
5. CONSIDER ACUPUNCTURE AND TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR

Also Read:  https://www.mothersopedia.com/womens-health/empowering-women-with-pcos-navigating-symptoms-and-finding-relief  

Lifestyle modifications and weight loss are the first treatments doctors recommend for PCOS, and they often work well.  Turn towards medications only after consulting your doctor and if lifestyle changes don't bring any difference.

LOVE AND SUPPORT ALWAYS.!!