Let’s Answer Important Questions on Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Let’s Answer Important Questions on Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

PCOS
June 7, 2017

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is alarmingly common condition. Skipping the monthly period can be a traumatic experience. Many girls feel shy to discuss this problem, for fear of being judged by their family, or worse still, for fear of being thought to be pregnant. This leaves many unanswered questions in the mind and often drives young, worried women to wrong sources for information. Here are the most common questions on PCOS so you can understand your body better, and know the options open for you.

 

  1. What causes PCOS?

PCOS is caused by a hormonal imbalance in the body. When the body makes an excess of androgen, it interferes with regular ovulation. An imbalance in insulin levels, caused due to high stress or bad dietary habits,can also lead to ovarian cysts. 

 

  1. Is PCOS hereditary?

PCOS can be passed on genetically but it is not an entirely hereditary condition. PCOS develops mainly from prolonged following of bad diet and lifestyle habits. Excess consumption of sugary snacks, dependence on packaged foods full of preservatives, daily addiction to aerated beverages and high stress levels all cause an insulin spike in the body. This excess insulin interferes with the smooth functioning of the thyroid gland and causes ovulation dysfunction in women.

 

  1. I have been diagnosed with PCOS. Do I need to change my diet?

Yes, you need to minimize sugar and carbs as much as possible. This includes white bread, all bakery products, sugar, white rice, potatoes, aerated soda, and breakfast cereal. These foods wreak havoc with your body insulin levels and cause thyroid problems. Reduce your consumption of salty snacks like chips and biscuits. Eat a diet rich in multigrain bread, brown rice, lean meat,fruits, pulses, nuts, and leafy vegetables.

 

 

  1. I am married and planning a family. Will PCOS affect my fertility?

PCOS is caused by a hormonal imbalance and it can hamper your chances of conceiving naturally. Due to the thyroid problems that accompany this condition, you do not ovulate regularly. Therefore, planning a baby can prove difficult. Moreover, women with ovarian cysts face higher risks of miscarriage. Talk to your doctor and evaluate the condition of your PCOS before planning a family.

 

  1. I have been told dairy products are bad for hormonal imbalance. Is this true?

All high fat dairy products are bad for body insulin levels. If you have been diagnosed with PCOS, do cut down your daily consumption of milk, ice cream, cheese, and all similar milk products. You can have low fat yoghurt which is good for digestion with its probiotic properties.

 

  1. I have PCOS and can’t lose weight. What should I do?

PCOS is often accompanied by weight gain and a dull feeling of inaction mostly caused by a sluggish thyroid. To overcome this, you need to work out twice as hard. If you don’t want to go to the gym, that’s alright. Find an activity that you like and stick with it. You can join yoga, dance, Zumba, CrossFit, or even swimming. The important thing is you must get at least 30 to 40 minutes of exercise daily to combat the weight gain.

 

  1. Does PCOS put me at risk of other health complications?

Yes, it does. PCOS is caused by thyroid problems in your body. The thyroid gland is linked with the functioning of almost all major organs including the heart and brain. Prolonged and untreated symptoms of thyroid complications can lead to diabetes, hypertension, endometrial cancer, and sleep apnea. PCOS can also lead to sudden bouts of depression and anxiety.

 

  1. I know of someone who has PCOS and they have been put on the pill. Is that a permanent solution?

Often women with PCOS are given birth control pills to alleviate the symptoms. The pill is definitely not a solution. Infact it gives rise to further complications. The birth control pill ensures regular menses while suppressing the root cause of PCOS. Once the pill is stopped the ovarian cysts come back and often the disease strikes twice as hard. Moreover, these pills can cause low libido, insulin resistance, and heart disease on the long run.

 

 

 

  1. Is there a permanent cure for PCOS?

There is no permanent cure or vaccination for PCOS. There are however many treatment options that you can choose from to control the condition and reduce your risk of other health complications. Never self-medicate. Always consult your doctor and go on a prescribed course of medicines. For those who wish to avoid chemical-based medication, homeopathy is known to provide natural and holistic healing for lifelong relief from PCOS.

 

  1. I heard that pregnancy cures PCOS. Is this true?

Unfortunately, there is no concrete evidence to back this claim. Many women experience a stop in the symptoms of thyroid problems and PCOS while pregnant. Post-delivery, some even start to get normal menstrual cycles. However, do not treat pregnancy as a cure for PCOS. There are high chances of a miscarriage due to the cysts. Therefore, get medical advice before planning a family.

Authored By

Dr. SEJAL VIVEK PAREKAR

BHMS

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