Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition in women that often manifests in adolescence. During the menstrual cycle of a healthy woman, one follicle, produced by the ovaries, will release an egg. In women with PCOS, the ovaries over-produce testosterone, yielding many smaller follicles. The immature follicles can accumulate in the ovaries and do not mature to release eggs. The condition is characterized by hyperandrogenism (excess androgen hormones), menstrual irregularity, and/or polycystic ovaries (sacs of fluid formed in the ovaries)
Signs, symptoms, and complications of PCOS:
• Acanthosis nigricans (skin discoloration in body folds and creases)
• Hirsutism (male-pattern hair growth in women including growing extra facial hair or hair loss)
• Menstrual irregularity
• Obesity
• Pelvic pain
• Polycystic ovaries
• Treatment-resistant acne
Having PCOS is associated with increased risk of having or developing other conditions such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and infertility
Causes and Risk Factors for PCOS:
• Functional ovarian hyperandrogenism (FOH) as an adolescent
• Heritable traits such as maternal PCOS
• Metabolic conditions (e.g., insulin resistance, diabetes, obesity)
• Physical inactivity
Preventing and Addressing PCOS:
Healthy lifestyle habits, including diet and exercise, are recommended to help women with PCOS manage weight and improve hormonal health and overall well-being.
Diet
A reduced-calorie and/or a reduced-carbohydrate diet can support weight management and improve ovarian function. Specifically, research has shown that following a diet low in refined carbohydrates and dairy may improve insulin sensitivity, reduce testosterone levels, and promote weight loss.
Physical Activity
The International Guideline for the Assessment and Management of PCOS provides the following exercise recommendations for weight management
• Adolescents: at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day,
• Adults ages 18 to 64: at least 150 minutes per week of moderate physical activity, or 75 minutes per week of vigorous activity,
• Reduce sedentary time, such as screen time and sitting
Weight Management
Healthy lifestyle or behavioral strategies like goal-setting, self-monitoring, and utilizing social support can help women with PCOS achieve weight loss. In individuals who are overweight, research suggests that losing 5 to 10% of body mass may increase ovulation frequency and chances of pregnancy, as well as improve hormonal balance.
For further assistance with PCOS speak to your healthcare provider at JCG Adult Health