As we celebrate these last 4 months of 2023 strong, let's also take time to celebrate our sisters with PCOS. September is PCOS Awareness month and though 1-in-10 women are diagnosed with this, learning about this condition could help us support our loved ones.
So what is PCOS?
PCOS or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a common hormonal disorder that affects women with ovaries, typically during their reproductive years. It is characterized by a combination of symptoms and physical features, which can vary in severity among individuals. Now let's dive into the facts!
Fact 1: PCOS Affects All Body Types
It's not exclusive to those who are overweight. While weight gain and obesity are common in people with PCOS, the condition itself is characterized by hormonal imbalances and various symptoms that can occur regardless of body weight. Maintaining a healthy weight keeps the symptoms at bay.
Fact 2: Anxiety & Depression Can show higher in women with PCOS compared to those that don't have it.
Hormonal Imbalances: PCOS is characterized by hormonal imbalances, including elevated androgen levels. These hormonal changes can impact mood regulation and contribute to symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Body Image Concerns: Many individuals with PCOS experience physical symptoms such as hirsutism (excessive hair growth), acne, and weight gain. These symptoms can lead to body image concerns and lower self-esteem, which in turn may contribute to anxiety and depression.
Menstrual Irregularities and Fertility Stress: PCOS often causes irregular menstrual cycles and can lead to fertility challenges. These issues can be emotionally distressing and increase the risk of mood disorders.
Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Factors: Insulin resistance is common in PCOS and can lead to metabolic problems, including weight gain and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. These metabolic factors can influence mood and contribute to depressive symptoms.
Chronic Nature of PCOS: PCOS is a chronic condition that often requires ongoing management. Living with a chronic condition can be stressful and emotionally challenging, which may exacerbate anxiety and depression.
Fact 3: You don't have to eliminate carbs from your diet
While some individuals with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) may benefit from managing their carbohydrate intake, it's not necessary for everyone with PCOS to completely eliminate carbohydrates from their diet. The key is to make informed and balanced dietary choices that help manage the condition's associated metabolic challenges, particularly insulin resistance.Focus on choosing complex carbohydrates over simple carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates, found in foods like whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables, provide a steady release of energy and can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
Fact 4: Not all women actually have cysts on their ovaries
While the presence of ovarian cysts (small, fluid-filled sacs) can be part of the diagnostic criteria, not all individuals with PCOS will have visible cysts on their ovaries. The name "polycystic" refers to the appearance of the ovaries, which may have multiple small follicles that can resemble a "string of pearls" on ultrasound, but these are not true cysts.
Dealing with PCOS and all its luggage can be annoying annoying but the good news is that you or your loved ones don't have to suffer in silence. PCOS can be successfully managed with a supportive health care team, family, a healthy diet, and lifestyle. If you want more information about balancing a healthy lifestyle , you can book a free 15 min consultation with Cultivating Inner Beauty to get started.
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