PCOS is an acronym for Polycystic ovary syndrome. It is a hormonal disorder that commonly affects women of reproductive age. although the exact cause of PCOS is not known, it disrupts ovulation and the period cycle. Women with this condition have enlarged ovaries that contain small follicles or cysts filled with fluid that give it the name POLYCYSTIC meaning many cysts.
Some women may not experience the physical symptoms of PCOS and may not also have any problem with their hormones, the condition is only detected through an ultrasound.
Causes of PCOS?
The exact causes of PCOS are not known but so far researchers have linked the development of PCOS to genetic and environmental factors. the combination of these two factors (genes and environment) is likely the cause of PCOS.
Is PCOS hereditary?
The symptoms of PCOS tend to run in families, this shows that there is a genetic link to PCOS. It can be hereditary, which makes the risk of having it higher if your mother, sister, or aunt has PCOS.
Symptoms of PCOS
- irregular period or no periods at all
- infertility (resulting from irregular ovulation or failure to ovulate)
- Excessive hair growth on the face, chest, back, or buttocks
- weight gain
- loss of hair from the head or thinning hair
- oily skin or acne
How do you check if you have PCOS?
It is true that symptoms can be unclear and mimic symptoms of other conditions. A physical exam, ultrasound, and blood tests can be carried out to help diagnose PCOS
To be diagnosed with PCOS, 2 of these criteria needs to be met:
- irregular, heavy, or missed menstruation as a result of missed ovulation. This hinders you from getting pregnant.
- Signs of a higher level of androgens. this hormone is more in men than women. They cause hirsutism, the growth of unwanted hair in women in places where men grow hair like the upper lip, on the chin, back, chest, etc. you may also lose hair or thin. this hormone can be detected through blood work.
- The use of ultrasound to check for cysts. a scan will be carried out to show you have polycystic ovaries.
Is PCOS that serious?
PCOS is a serious health condition that is more likely to develop other serious health problems like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, problems with the heart and blood vessels, and uterine cancer. it also causes women to have problems with getting pregnant.
What are the 4 types of PCOS?
- Insulin-resistant PCOS
Its the most common type of PCOS that is caused by sugar, smoking, pollution and trans fat. in this type of PCOS, Ovulation is prevented by the high level of insulin that also causes the ovaries to produce testosterone. - Pill-induced PCOS
It is another common PCOS that is developed from the use of birth control pills which suppress ovulation. for some women, the effect of the pill doesn’t last long and they may begin to ovulate after the effect of the pill is over. While some other women may not resume ovulation after the effect of the pills gets over. - Inflammatory PCOS
This is due to inflammation caused by stress, environmental toxins, and inflammatory dietary like gluten which prevents ovulation, hormonal imbalance, and production of androgens (male hormone) - Hidden PCOS
This takes less than five-month to get resolved once the cause is addressed. The causes of hidden PCOS are thyroid disease, iodine deficiency, vegetarian diet (causes Zinc deficiency), and artificial sweeteners.
Does masturbation cause PCOS?
The answer is simply NO, masturbation does not cause PCOS. the possible cause of PCOS is Vague but there is an agreement that genetics may be a factor.
What is the relationship between PCOS and Fertility
PCOS affect a woman’s fertility in so many ways. with PCOS, a woman may not ovulate due to the increase in testosterone production or because of immature follicles. sometimes, ovulation can occur but the lining of the uterus may not develop properly to allow implantation due to hormonal imbalance.
Hormonal imbalance can also cause irregular ovulation and menstruation, this can make it difficult to get pregnant.
Can I get Pregnant with PCOS?
Most women will be able to conceive with a combination of lifestyle changes and fertility drugs. While some women with PCOS will need IVF, the great majority will get pregnant using lower-tech fertility treatments.
What are the Medical Treatment Available for PCOS?
below are the medications that can help regulate menstrual cycle and treat PCOS symptoms like acne and hair growth.
Birth Control
Daily intake of progestin can:
- regulate ovulation
- restore a normal hormone balance
- relieve symptoms like excess hair growth
- protect against endometrial cancer
Metformin
This is a drug for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, it also treat PCOS by improving the level of insulin. Taking metformin with some right diet and exercise improve weight loss, lowers blood sugar, and restores a normal period cycle.
Clomiphene
Clomiphene (Clomid) is a fertility drug that helps women with PCOS get pregnant.
Hair removal medications
Eflornithine (Vaniqa) cream is a drug which slows hair growth. Laser hair removal and electrolysis can be used to get rid of unwanted hair on the face and body.
Surgery
When other treatments don’t work, surgery can be performed. Laparoscopic ovarian drilling is a procedure of making tiny holes in the ovary with a laser or thin heated needle to restore normal ovulation.
How to Treat and Get Rid of PCOS symptoms Naturally without Surgery or Expensive Medical Drugs.
Weight loss
People with PCOS usually gain extra weight, which may increase their risk of diabetes, heart disease, and other Metabolic syndrome-related issues. So, it is very important to maintain a healthy weight. You can lose weight through certain lifestyle changes like eating healthy food and getting more physical activity.
Diet changes
People with PCOS tend to have a medical condition called Insulin resistance, which comes before diabetes. in this situation, the body has persistently high levels of insulin(hormone to to lower blood sugar level) and may stop responding to the hormone as well leading to high blood sugar level.
Carbohydrates and sugar can raise insulin and blood sugar levels. this means avoiding carbohydrate and the following:
white bread
white pasta
white rice
cereal
cookies
chips
soda
juice
granola bars
You can take carbs like:
whole grains
whole-wheat bread and pasta
brown rice
Exercise
Regular exercise can help with weight loss, lower insulin levels, and blood sugar levels. exercise is very good for heart health, it can improve mood and help regulate sleep patterns. Try not to overwork.
Herbal products
A review in 2014 published in the journal BMC Complementary and Alternative medicine to determine if herbal supplements could help manage PCOS symptoms. the researchers found Vitex agnus-castus, cimicifuga racemosa among others to be effective in the managing irregular ovulation, resultant infertility and helpful in treating metabolic complications of PCOS. This herbs has been finely blended together for the purpose of finding a lasting solution to PCOS and fertility related issues.
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What Are the PCOS Food List?
The three helpful diets to help people with PCOS manage their symptoms are:
A low glycemic index (GI) diet: The body digests foods with a low GI more slowly, meaning they do not cause insulin levels to rise as much or as quickly as other foods, such food includes
- Whole grains
- legumes
- nuts
- seeds
- fruits
- starchy vegetables, and other unprocessed, low-carbohydrate foods
An anti-inflammatory diet: Anti-inflammatory foods, such as:
- berries
- fatty fish
- leafy greens, and extra virgin olive oil, may reduce inflammation-related symptoms.
The DASH diet: DASH stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. diet to reduce the risk or impact of heart disease. It may also help manage PCOS symptoms. A DASH diet includes:
- fish
- poultry
- fruits
- vegetables whole grain, and low-fat dairy products.
Food that are high in saturated fat and sugar is discouraged.
Is banana good for PCOS?
Yes, banana contains potassium, That helps to regulate blood pressure. it has low sodium and they are very good for hypertension. it is also a good source of B vitamins, that can help to maintain blood sugar level.
Are eggs bad for PCOS?
No, a PCOS patient can have an egg because it contains the necessary amino acids needed by the body to maintain Muscles, eyes, nerves, and tissues. the egg is very good for PCOS as it contains nutrients that improve PCOS
Is Chicken bad for PCOS?
Chicken is not bad and can be a healthy dietary option for PCOS. Chicken is a source of lean protein which don’t provide fiber but can be healthy for a woman with PCOS.
Is white rice good for PCOS?
We have stated here earlier that Carbohydrates should be avoided. white rice is one example of carbohydrate to be avoided, hence white rice is not good for PCOS
Is beetroot bad for PCOS?
Anti-oxidants food like beetroot helps to manage PCOS. Beetroot can help cure inflammation and they are good to be added to your diet if you have PCOS
Is milk bad for PCOS?
Although women with PCOS are prohibited from having dairy foods, they may still consume milk within a reasonable limit. Past studies reveal a positive relationship between low-fat milk and PCOS, low-fat dairy products may increase insulin sensitivity.
Is fasting good for PCOS?
16-hours fasts have shown to reduce markers of inflammation and cellular damage in those with PCOS. you may start with a 12-hour overnight fast, and adding 1-hour every 5 days. the number of hours you fast depends on how much you want to lose weight.
Is drinking hot water good for PCOS?
Water is generally good for your bodily function. there is no scientific evidence that hot water can do wonders for PCOS but some popular benefits of hot water on PCOS includes: boost metabolism for weight loss, improve hair and skin, relief stress, and its good for the digestive system.
Can I eat honey with PCOS?
Honey is good for women with PCOS. It reduces hunger pangs and makes you feel full, this will aid you in losing weight
Is cucumber good for PCOS?
Yes, cucumber is a very good source of B-vitamins and antioxidants that are necessary for healthy cells and play a role in weight loss, balanced hydration, digestive regularity, and lower blood sugar levels.
Is Wheat Bad for PCOS?
No, wheat is part of the DASH diet foods for PCOS. it is high in fiber, improves insulin sensitivity, and also reduces chronic inflammation.
Is coconut water good for PCOS?
yes, coconut water is good in fighting against possible complications of PCOS. it is rich in magnesium which may increase insulin sensitivity and improve blood sugar control.
Is Almond good for PCOS?
hormonal imbalance is the symptom of PCOS and almond can help in reducing free testosterone levels and also in balancing the female hormones. Almond is beneficial to someone suffering from PCOS.
Is turmeric tea good for PCOS?
Yes, it is known to decrease insulin resistance and as an anti-inflammatory agent. you also need a liver-friendly herb like turmeric to overcome PCOS.
Does zinc help PCOS?
Zinc can help decrease symptoms of PCOS like unwanted hair growth, it can also balance blood sugar level and optimizing hormone production.
Does Vitamin D Help PCOS?
Yes, it does. it helps to improve follicular maturation in women with PCOS, it can also help in regulating the menstrual cycle in women with PCOS.
Trying to Get Pregnant with PCOS? — What You Should Do
PCOS is a hormonal condition that affects more than fertility alone, it a common and treatable cause of infertility in women. It is possible to get pregnant with PCOS, it might just be tricky and require extra help. here are what you should do to raise your chances for a healthy pregnancy.
Maintain a healthy weight
You will need to maintain a healthy weight to improve your fertility and symptoms of PCOS. engage in daily exercises like walking, standing at your desk while working, lift light weights to build more muscles, this will help bring down the symptoms of PCOS and also improve your overall health.
Eat healthily
You will have to be more selective in the foods to consume, replace sugary foods, unhealthy fat, etc. for the following:
- fresh and cooked fruit and vegetables
- whole grains like brown rice, oats, and barley
- beans and lentils
- chicken
- fish
include Vitamins and minerals that are important for the pregnancy and growing baby, such as:
- folic acid (vitamin B9)
- vitamin B6
- vitamin B12
- vitamin C
- vitamin D
- vitamin E
- coenzyme Q10
Balance Blood Sugar level
There is a hormone called Insulin, which moves sugar from the blood into the muscles and cells where consume for energy. PCOS can cause your body to be less sensitive to insulin leading to high blood sugar levels or type 2 diabetes. To get pregnant, you will need to balance your blood sugar levels. include more fiber, protein, and healthy fats in your diet. regular exercise and strength training can help your body properly use insulin. it is very important to check your blood levels every day if you have high blood sugar levels.
Medications
Too much or too little hormones testosterone and estrogen can make it difficult to get pregnant, hence the need for medication to help balance your hormone. Fertility remedies to activate the ovaries to send out more eggs like the fertility ignition pack is also very necessary.
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4 Type of Exercises to Always do if you Have PCOS
We have stated in this article that exercise can help get rid of the symptoms of PCOS, here we have put together 4 good exercises that can help improve those PCOS.
Cardio exercise
This kind of exercise can boost fertility, stabilize mood and reduce insulin resistance thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. You can engage in 30 minutes of moderate exercises like jogging, cycling, brisk walking, or swimming. These are good exercises that can help with PCOS
Strength Training Exercise
This kind of exercise will improve body composition (more muscle and less fat), increase metabolic rate and reduce insulin resistance. You may engage in bodyweight exercises like push-ups squats, triceps dips on a daily basis. do not over-exercise though
High-intensity interval training
These are exercises like mountain climbers, tuck-ups, plank jacks, star jump, and flutter kick. they increase cardiovascular fitness and decrease waist circumference. it will help reduce weight leading to a reduction in excess testosterone and improving insulin resistance.
Core strength
This is an exercise good for general well-being, helps improve your pelvic floor muscles, and preparing your body for pregnancy. It is essential to include core training in your program.
5 No-Fail cure to PCOS without medication
Cinnamon
This spice is proven to cure type 2 diabetes, stabilize blood sugar levels, reduce insulin resistance, and increases the chances of conceiving. you can mix cinnamon with milkshakes or yogurt.
Flax seeds
The seeds contain protein that can reduce the quantity of testosterone in our bodies. The seed is a good source of fiber, omega-3, and omega-6 fatty acids. You can grind the seed into powder and add it to your breakfast or to your drinking water.
Honey
PCOS causes hormonal imbalance that leads to obesity and if nothing is done about it, it can also lead to other diseases like arthritis and heart ailment. Honey helps you to feel full always and reduces cravings for food. You can have a tablespoon of honey mixed with lukewarm water on an empty stomach before 7.30 am
Bitter gourd and Ivy gourd
Both can help bring the level of insulin and glucose under control. Both the leaves and vegetables can be consumed by women with PCOS at least Five times a week.
Amla
Amla is an Indian gooseberry known to control blood sugar levels and improve female fertility. it is a rich source of antioxidants and vitamin C. it can be used for detoxification of the body system, thereby aiding weight loss. you can juice the fruit, mix it with lukewarm water, and drink.
Conclusion
When dealing with PCOS, Treatment begins with lifestyle changes such as your diet, exercise and so on. If you are overweight, you can aim at losing 5-10% of your weight to improve symptoms and the odds of getting pregnant.
The natural fertility kit is very effective in ameliorating the symptoms of PCOS, by balancing the hormone and reducing weight. it also helps to improve egg quality and simulates ovulation
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