PCOS

What Is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a hormonal disorder where the ovaries produce higher than normal amounts of androgens (male hormones) which interferes with egg production. Instead of an egg being released from the ovary during ovulation the egg instead develops into a cyst. These cysts build up in the ovaries.

Causative Factors:

The cause of PCOS has yet to be identified but it seems to have a genetic component as it tends to run in families. Some researchers theorize that it is caused by high insulin levels. Low-grade inflammation has also been implicated as a possible cause of PCOS.

Dietary Recommendations:

I would recommend eating a low glycemic load diet with plenty of foods and herbs that support the endocrine system, help regulate hormones and have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.

Major Signs and Symptoms:

Signs and symptoms often appear with the onset of a woman’s puberty but may not emerge until she is in her 20’s or 30’s. These signs/-symptoms include:

- Oligomenorrhea (infrequent or irregular periods)

- Amenorrhea (no periods)

- Polymenorrhea (excessive bleeding during periods)

- Enlarged ovaries with multiple small painless cysts

- Acrochordons- skin tags, typically found in the armpit or neck area

- Acanthosis Nigricans- a disorder that causes the skin of the neck, groin, underarms and/or skin folds to darken and thicken

- Hirsutism- Excess hair growth all over the body, including the face

- Pelvic pain

- Thinning hair

- Acne

- Weight gain and obesity

- Increased blood sugar

- Depression or anxiety

- Infertility

Long Term Complications:

- Linked to insulin resistance and diabetes

- Increased risk of heart disease and stroke

- Sleep apnea

- Infertility and miscarriage

- Increased risk of gestational diabetes

- Bleeding in the uterus

- Increased risk of uterine cancer

- Slightly increased risk of breast cancer

- Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (severe liver inflammation caused by fat accumulation in the liver)

- Metabolic Syndrome- a combination of conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels

If you are struggling with PCOS and you want to talk about a holistic approach to helping you optimize your health I would love to help! Please reach out on my contact page to set up an appointment.

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