Menstruation becomes an integral part of a woman’s life for a very long time. But many times, the irregular periods pose a problem to a percentage of women. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal imbalance affecting millions of women worldwide. While irregular periods and unwanted hair growth are common with PCOS, the bigger picture is its potential to increase your risk of developing other serious health conditions.What health conditions can PCOS put one at risk and how to manage it ?
Understanding PCOS
PCOS disrupts the hormonal balance in a woman’s body. This imbalance leads to excess androgen production (typically male hormones) in females. This totally hinders ovulation, the process of releasing an egg each month, while causing irregular or infrequent periods. PCOS also leads to formation of small cysts on the ovaries which may pose fertility issues.
Symptoms of PCOS
PCOS shows some symptoms such as,
- Irregular periods or lack of periods altogether
- Excess hair growth on the face, chest, or abdomen
- Acne
- Unintended weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Skin darkening around the neck or underarms (acanthosis nigricans)
- Difficulty getting pregnant
Related Health Conditions
PCOS not only increases the risk of fertility issues but can also increase the risk of developing other health concerns like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, endometrial cancer, etc.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Insulin resistance, a hallmark of PCOS, makes it harder for your body to use insulin effectively. This can lead to type 2 diabetes, a condition where blood sugar levels become abnormally high.
- Metabolic Syndrome: This cluster of conditions includes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and excess abdominal fat. Women with PCOS are at a higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome, which further increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Heart Disease: The combination of insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and unhealthy cholesterol levels associated with PCOS can significantly raise the risk of heart disease.
- Endometrial Cancer: The lining of the uterus (endometrium) can thicken due to the lack of regular ovulation in PCOS. This increases the risk of endometrial cancer, although the overall risk remains relatively low.
- Sleep Apnea : Women with PCOS are more likely to experience sleep apnea, where breathing pauses repeatedly during sleep. This condition, often linked to obesity which is common in PCOS, raises the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
- Mental Health Conditions: Women with PCOS are more prone to anxiety and depression. The hormonal fluctuations and challenges associated with PCOS can contribute to these mental health struggles.
Managing PCOS and Related Conditions
While there’s no cure for PCOS, the healthcare provider’s recommendation on lifestyle changes and some medications can help manage its symptoms and reduce the risk of related health problems.
- Lifestyle Changes: It is important to maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise. A balanced diet low in processed foods and refined sugars can improve insulin sensitivity, reducing the risk of diabetes. Regular physical activity, even moderate exercise, can be highly beneficial.
- Medications: Including medications can address specific symptoms. Birth control pills help regulate periods and reduce androgen levels. Insulin-sensitizing drugs may be prescribed for those with insulin resistance.
- Fertility Treatment: If pregnancy is desired, fertility medications or treatments like ovulation induction can increase your chances of conception.
- Mental Health Support: Addressing mental health concerns is essential. Since they have a high risk of getting anxiety and depression, therapy can help manage the mental health issues associated with PCOS.
If you suspect you have PCOS, consult your doctor for a diagnosis and discuss a personalized treatment plan. Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent or delay the development of related health conditions. But, at the same time leading a healthy life reduces the risk of PCOS and the related health condition.PCOS is a complex condition, but with proper management, you can live a healthy and fulfilling life.
