Living with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can involve many challenges. One of the first challenges you may need to overcome is identifying if you have the condition.
Once you have a diagnosis, you’ll then begin the process of figuring out the right treatments for managing your symptoms. Taking a closer look at how PCOS impacts your body helps you begin planning to work with a functional medicine doctor Chicago residents trust.
What is PCOS?
When you are wondering what is PCOS in women, you might already be dealing with symptoms from this condition that impact your overall well-being. PCOS is a hormonal condition that involves your ovaries.
For some people, the ovaries produce too much of certain hormones called androgens. With too many androgens flowing through your system, your other hormones can also get out of balance. As a result, your body may develop follicle cysts on your ovaries. You may also experience unpredictable ovulation that impacts your menstrual cycle.
What Causes PCOS?
Currently, the cause of PCOS isn’t fully understood. However, there are some signs that genetics might be involved in who develops the condition. Women with PCOS have higher levels of androgens in their system. Obesity, insulin resistance, and low-grade inflammation may also be present.
What Are the Most Common PCOS Symptoms?
Many women with PCOS experience irregular periods. Because excess androgens impact ovulation, you might miss a period. Or you might experience heavy bleeding during your periods.
You might also experience the following signs of a hormone imbalance:
- Abnormal hair growth
- Acne
- Increasing weight gain
- Darkening of your neck and armpit skin
- Cysts
- Skin tags
- Thinning hair
What PCOS Warning Signs Should You Watch For?
When you are wondering about what are the first signs of PCOS, you should also know that some people experience infertility. You could also experience dangerous blood sugar fluctuations due to insulin resistance. In severe cases, hormonal imbalances can also lead to gestational diabetes and high blood pressure during pregnancy, along with premature labor.
What to Do If You Have PCOS
Finding out if you have PCOS involves speaking with a healthcare provider who may conduct a physical exam and hormone testing to assess your condition. If you have PCOS, then you have multiple options for managing your condition. Most women benefit from implementing the following strategies for improving their symptoms.
Follow a PCOS Diet
Figuring out how to cure PCOS permanently involves working with a healthcare provider to make lifestyle changes to improve hormonal balance in your body. One strategy that works well is eating a healthy diet.
Since this health condition can impact blood sugar regulation, your care provider may recommend avoiding sugary snacks. A PCOS diet may also include limiting fried foods and saturated fats. Processed foods, such as cakes and cookies, might also need to be limited to special occasions.
However, don’t worry about being hungry. You’ll still be able to enjoy non-starchy vegetables, whole fruits and omega-rich fish for your meals. Swapping to whole-grain pasta and bread is also an option that can help you enjoy some of your favorite dishes in a healthier way.
Seek Professional PCOS Treatment
Talking to a physician who specializes in PCOS care and other hormonal conditions can help you find solutions that offer long-lasting results. In some cases, you might need hormone replacement therapy to balance out excess androgens.
Practice a PCOS-Friendly Lifestyle
Staying hydrated, exercising, and finding ways to reduce stress all help your body to balance your hormone levels. Finding ways to move more and have fun improves your overall well-being, and it’s a great place to begin your wellness journey.
Throughout your journey in life, you’ll often experience hormonal fluctuations that impact how you feel each day. Although PCOS symptoms may ease after menopause, you could find yourself facing new challenges as you age. Cultivating a relationship with a functional medicine doctor Chicago residents rely on for hormonal health helps you navigate each new challenge that comes your way.
