Do you know Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) disorder affects 8-13 % of the female population of childbearing age across the globe? This amounts to about 116 million women being the most prevalent hormonal disorders worldwide. Meanwhile, about 70% of the cases remain undetected. [1] [2] [3] [4] PCOS is characterised by hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles, and the presence of ovarian cysts. Treating this complex condition for a woman requires a multifaceted approach that includes changing lifestyle, eating habits, medicines, and supplements. This blog aims to present methods of PCOS treatment and offer insights into both traditional and alternative approaches to managing PCOS [3 and 4].
What is PCOS?
PCOS is the existence of multiple small cysts on the ovaries, though not all women with this condition will have cysts. PCOS is marked by a trio of symptoms: irregular periods, excess androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries. It leads to a variety of health ailments, such as infertility, insulin resistance, and increased tendency of type 2 diabetes. The main cause of PCOS still remains unidentified, but there is evidence that the condition is caused by inherited genetics, hormonal imbalance, and inflammation. The main problem in PCOS is hormonal—the levels of reproductive hormones are out of whack, ovulation can be disrupted, and there is a problem with insulin and the levels of androgens, or the male hormones.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The diagnosis and PCOS treatment are possible clinically through ultrasonography and blood tests. The common symptoms of PCOS include:
- Irregular Menstrual Cycles: PCOS affects women and can make them have less than eight menstruations in one year.
- Excess Androgen Levels: Such as hirsutism – excessive hair growth on the face or body,
- Polycystic Ovaries: Several small cysts in the ovary with ultrasound examination, meaning that the ovaries are enlarged.
- Acne or oily skin
- Overweight or obese and having difficulty to lose weight
- Receding hair, hair thinning, or hair loss
- Dark skin colour around the neck and the groin.
For a diagnosis, normally, at least two of the symptoms mentioned above should be met.
PCOS Treatments
PCOS treatment and management of hormones requires a holistic approach that addresses the root causes and symptoms. Women can achieve better hormonal balance and improve their overall well-being. The following measures are effective in handling PCOS.
1. Diet and Nutrition
Dietary management of PCOS is critical since food has significant effects on the symptoms of PCOS. To deal with PCOS, taking a balanced diet with more lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help in controlling blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Research has confirmed that a low glycemic index (GI) diet has a positive influence on insulin resistance. A balanced diet can help in weight management, which is a challenge with women who face PCOS.
2. Exercise
Physical exercise on a regular basis is essential for suppressing the symptoms of PCOS. It assists in dealing with insulin resistance, managing the levels of glucose, and supporting the process of losing weight. Studies show that the combination of aerobic exercises and strength training can be helpful in the normalisation of the menstrual cycle as well as alleviation of symptoms.
3. Medical Treatments
Hormonal contraceptives like pills, patches, and vaginal rings are useful to prescribe PCOS control through the regulation of menstrual cycles and lowering of androgen levels. This is useful for controlling acne and hirsutism. Metformin is another drug used in the PCOS treatment of type 2 diabetes and improves insulin sensitivity in women with the symptoms of PCOS. This assists in the control of menstrual cycles and promotes the occurrence of ovulation to help people who want to conceive. Also, certain drugs which belongs to the group of anti-androgens, affect the expression of the androgenic effect. They can help minimise facial acne and excessive hairiness.
4. Stress Management
Due to hormonal imbalance and stress, exercises that relieve stress, like yoga and meditation, can help in PCOS treatment. Stress is a major factor that worsens the hormonal imbalance affecting women suffering from PCOS. Making stress-decreasing practices into daily routine will help improve overall health and control the symptoms to a great extent.
5. Herbal Supplements
Many natural remedies and herbal supplements are effective in PCOS treatment. Consuming herbs like chasteberry, fenugreek, turmeric, and ginger is beneficial for those struggling with PCOS. These herbal supplements have become popular in the market as supplements for managing PCOS naturally. Another essential herb is Inositol, which helps increase insulin efficiency as well as the fertility of the ovaries. In a reviewed study in the AVCCCCX[1].
Problems Faced by Women with PCOS
Symptoms related to PCOS can physically and psychologically impact a woman. Common issues include:
- Infertility: PCOS is the main culprit for infertility resulting from abnormal ovulation.
- Metabolic Syndrome: This makes people prone to develop other related diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
- Sleep Apnea: Women with PCOS have a higher prevalence of sleep disorders than women without the syndrome.
- Depression and Anxiety: Experiencing psychological and emotional issues common because of the symptoms and effects of PCOS.
Incorporate Herbaceuticals to Manage PCOS
Lifestyle changes, medicines, and supplements help treat women with PCOS symptoms. Adding a balanced diet, moderate exercise, and stress reduction techniques to daily routines can aid in hormonal balance. However, for those who require further help, then taking herbal supplements can complement the PCOS treatment plan.
Keffy’s herbal-infused PCOS Management Capsules are among the most effective and high-quality nutraceuticals (the power of selective herbs and pharmaceuticals) that help manage PCOS symptoms. PCOS capsules aid women with PCOS in balancing hormones and suppressing the symptoms of PCOS. To find out how to manage PCOS and manage symptoms for improved health and a better quality of life [2].