Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder in females. Male sex hormones called androgens, which are typically present in small amounts in women, are produced abnormally by the ovaries in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Numerous tiny cysts (fluid-filled sacs) develop in the ovaries of PCOS patients. Although some women without the disorder develop cysts, while some women with the disorder do not. In this article, we will discuss PCOS causes, symptoms and treatment with a special focus on PCOS and infertility.

PCOS Causes:

There is no known exact cause for PCOS. However, some factors are related to PCOS disease causes and PCOS environmental causes. Among these factors that play a key role in developing PCOS in females include:

Insulin resistance

Insulin resistance is common in PCOS-affected women. This indicates poor insulin utilization by the body. Furthermore, increased androgen levels may result from the body’s accumulation of insulin. It is the most important and basic cause of PCOS symptoms.

Obesity

Obesity and weight gain may lead to PCOS or can worsen the symptoms of PCOS. Additionally, it raises insulin levels that leads to the development of insulin resistance.

Genetics

Along with other causes, we cannot overlook genetic predisposition of PCOS as it may run in families.

PCOS Symptoms:

Although PCOS symptoms vary from individual to individual, among the common signs and symptoms of PCOS in females include:

• Irregularities in menstrual cycle
• Large ovaries or ovaries with numerous cysts
• Overgrowth of body hair especially on face (hirsutism)
• Weight gain, with excess belly fat
• Greasy skin or acne
• Baldness with a male pattern or hair thinning
• Darkening of the skin and skin patches in armpits or neck region
• Problems in conception as PCOS and infertility are closely related

PCOS Types:

There are four common types of PCOS based on causes of PCOS in females:

Insulin-resistant PCOS:

The most prevalent kind of PCOS is insulin resistant. Trans fat, sugar, smoking, and pollution are the causes of this kind of PCOS. In this case, elevated insulin levels suppress ovulation and cause the ovaries to produce testosterone.

Pill-induced PCOS:

PCOS which develops due to use of birth control pills which suppresses ovulation, is pill-induced PCOS. Most women experience short-term effects from the pill, and their periods return once it wears off. However, even after the side effects of medication wear off, some women do not start ovulating again for months or even years.

Inflammatory PCOS:

It is caused due to persistent and chronic inflammation. Testosterone levels raise manly due to unhealthy diet and way of life. Symptoms include headaches, unexplained fatigue, high C reactive protein (more than 5), and skin conditions like eczema.

Adrenal PCOS:

The way our bodies react to stress is what causes adrenal PCOS. Higher levels of stress are common in women with adrenal PCOS. Moreover, the body will respond abnormally, which may cause this response. It will therefore raise the amount of DHEAS production. One kind of androgen that will develop in the adrenal glands is called DHEAS.

PCOS Treatment:

Although this is a frequently asked question, how to treat PCOS, PCOS treatment is influenced by several factors. These include your general health, the severity of your symptoms, and your age. Just like PCOS causes and treatment, PCOS symptoms and treatment are also inter-dependent. Common PCOS treatments include:

Diet and Lifestyle modification

Following a nutritious diet and increasing physical activity lessens PCOS symptoms. It also facilitates ovulation and helps your body use insulin more effectively.

Drugs for ovulation

Drugs that stimulate ovulation may be prescribed for some patients based on individual diagnosis and symptoms. PCOS and infertility are correlated, therefore hormone balancing pills are often prescribed.

However, it should be kept in mind that there is no established PCOS permanent solution yet. PCOS treatment is based on managing symptoms in most cases.

PCOS Complications

Certain major health issues are more likely to arise in women with PCOS. As one of the frequently asked question is does PCOS cause diabetes, there are many other complications of PCOS. These include uterine cancer, high blood pressure, heart and blood vessel issues, and type 2 diabetes. Additionally, sleep apnea, anxiety, depression, mood swings and eating disorders may develop. Moreover, there is fertility (the ability to conceive) impairment in women with PCOS. It may cause early birth, miscarriages and gestational diabetes.

PCOS and infertility: The impact and treatment

PCOS is the number one cause of infertility these days. On the other hand, 70% to 80% of PCOS females face problems in conception and fertility due to ovulation problems. Women who have polycystic ovaries experience irregular menstrual cycles because they do not ovulate regularly.

How to get pregnant with PCOS quickly?

Although, there is a high likelihood of becoming pregnant with polycystic ovarian syndrome when using fertility treatments. With fertility treatment, the vast majority of women with polycystic ovarian syndrome will be able to conceive. However, role of healthy diet and lifestyle management cannot be denied in this regard. PCOS pregnancy needs consistent nutritional monitoring as well.

PCOS treatment for pregnancy

• Weight loss: The higher levels of testosterone can make weight loss more challenging, but in obese women, it can help restore regular periods and hormone balance. Therefore, changing your diet and exercising could have a big impact.
• Reducing insulin sensitivity by healthy diet: As carbohydrates consumption is linked to insulin sensitivity. Choosing healthier food choices and seeking help of a nutrition doctor or nutritionist plays a pivotal role. (DietFit is providing PCOS pregnancy diet plan, click here to book an appointment)
• Ovulating Medications: The ovaries are stimulated by ovulation-inducing medications like Clomiphene. FSH injections are an option if clomiphene is not effective for you. However, self-medication is harmful, seek medical help.
• Fertility treatments: Among PCOS and infertility treatment,IVF treatment can be option in some difficult cases. Nevertheless, following healthy diet and dietary remedies for PCOS management should be first line treatment for a safer and healthier pregnancy.

How to lose weight with PCOS?

Diet plays a key role in managing PCOS symptoms and causes such as obesity, insulin resistance and hormonal imbalance. Diet strategies for PCOS weight loss diet, which include eating anti-inflammatory foods, cutting back on carbohydrates, and emphasizing healthy fats, can aid in weight loss and support hormonal balance.

Best diet plan for PCOS

As PCOS symptoms vary from individual to individual, so the PCOS diet varies based on individual symptoms. However, PCOS treatment diet and PCOS diet plan is based on the following general principles:

• Eating protein foods with every meal which include healthier protein choices such as nuts, seeds and plant based proteins.
• Adding plenty of vegetables in your plate with each meal.
• Choosing healthier carb choices such as whole grain and cereals.
• Adding anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant rich foods in the diet such as turmeric, honey, cinnamon and herbs.
• Increasing fiber intake in the form of fresh fruits and salad vegetables.
• Limiting fat intake such as excess oil, butter, margarine etc. and choosing lean meats.
• Choosing healthier plant based fats such as olive oil.
• Limiting the intake of processed, fried and refined foods.
• Keeping yourself hydrated and adding detox water in your diet. (Hyperlink detox water article).

The Bottom Line

PCOS is often categorized into stages based on the severity of symptoms and hormonal imbalances. PCOS stages can range from mild to severe. Early detection and intervention can help prevent the progression of the condition and its associated complications. A comprehensive approach is necessary for comprehending and treating PCOS, particularly when it interacts with issues related to fertility. Seek professional help to identify your type of PCOS and peronalised dietary and medical treatment for PCOS and infertility.