What is PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS may have infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods or excess male hormone (androgen) levels. The ovaries may develop numerous small collections of fluid (follicles) and fail to regularly release eggs.
The exact cause of PCOS is unknown. Early diagnosis and treatment along with weight loss may reduce the risk of long-term complications such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
WHY PCOS HAPPENS?
Signs and symptoms of PCOS often develop around the time of the first menstrual period during puberty. Sometimes PCOS develops later, for example, in response to substantial weight gain.
Signs and symptoms of PCOS vary. A diagnosis of PCOS is made when you experience at least two of these signs:
- Irregular periods. Infrequent, irregular or prolonged menstrual cycles are the most common sign of PCOS. For example, you might have fewer than nine periods a year, more than 35 days between periods and abnormally heavy periods.
- Excess androgen. Elevated levels of male hormones may result in physical signs, such as excess facial and body hair (hirsutism), and occasionally severe acne and male-pattern baldness.
- Polycystic ovaries. Your ovaries might be enlarged and contain follicles that surround the eggs. As a result, the ovaries might fail to function regularly.
PCOS signs and symptoms are typically more severe if you're obese.
When to see a doctor?
See your doctor if you have concerns about your menstrual periods, if you're experiencing infertility or if you have signs of excess androgen such as worsening hirsutism, acne and male-pattern baldness.
How to treat PCOS?
Reduce Sugars and Carbohydrates
Many women with PCOS also have insulin resistance, in which the body doesn’t use the hormone insulin effectively. Insulin, which is produced by the pancreas, enables the body to use glucose, or sugar, from food for energy. It also helps keeps blood sugar levels in check. To lower blood sugar, your doctor may recommend eating a diet low in sugar and other simple carbohydrates.
The ideal diet consists of a variety of foods from various food groups—healthy carbohydrates, such as vegetables and fruits; lean meats, such as poultry; fish; and high fiber grains. Doctors advise focusing on foods that are low in sugar and fat and have a low glycemic index. Low glycemic index foods cause the body to release insulin slowly and steadily, making it easier for your body to use food as energy rather than store it as fat. Foods high in fiber also help control blood sugar levels.
Because carbohydrates are broken down into sugar, it’s helpful to limit the amount you consume. Try to avoid refined carbs, which are found in processed foods, especially white flour, rice, potatoes, and sugar. You should also avoid sugary drinks, including soda and juice.
Manage Weight
Many, but not all, women with PCOS are overweight. Over time, they may become obese. That can lead to many health problems, including infertility, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
To help you lose weight, NYU Langone’s registered dietitians and nutritionists can create a healthy diet low in fat and calories. They can teach you how to keep track of what you eat by writing it down or using calorie-counting aids. Paying attention to portion size is also key in losing weight.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise has many benefits in treating PCOS. It helps you combat obesity by burning calories and building muscle mass, which decreases insulin resistance. Exercise can also help lower cholesterol levels and those of other hormones, such as testosterone.
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