PCOS is the commonest endocrine disorder, affecting the women of child-bearing age.
PCOS is defined as the presence of any two of the following criteria:
- Cysts in one or both ovaries
- Higher amounts of male hormones (testosterone)
- Irregularity in the menstrual cycle
Over the period of time, it has been seen, that PCOS is not only high levels of male hormones or irregularity in menses, but it has long term complications. It is an accepted fact, that, PCOS is linked with metabolic disorders, increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and endometrial cancer.
PCOS and insulin resistance
Insulin resistance is a condition, where the body is not able to utilize insulin properly.
Insulin is a hormone that helps the body use sugar from foods for energy. When insulin is not utilized properly, the demand for insulin in the body increases. And to meet this demand, body produces more insulin. Insulin excess, leads to increase in the androgens (male sex hormones). Insulin resistance is seen in both, obese and lean women with PCOS. Insulin resistance causes irregularity of the menstrual cycle as well. Insulin resistance increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
PCOS and Diabetes
Studies have shown that women with PCOS are three to seven times more prone to develop type-2 diabetes. Certain risk factors of women with PCOS which can further progress to diabetes are:
- Body’s inability to utilize insulin
- Family history of diabetes
- Irregular menses
Even though obesity is a risk factor, but impaired glucose tolerance and diabetes are common even among skinny PCOS women
PCOS and Obesity
The link between obesity and PCOS is well established. Women with PCOS tend to have excess distribution of fat over the abdominal area. Besides having long term complications, obesity and PCOS affect the reproductive health of women. Studies have shown that women who are suffering from PCOS and are obese, are more prone to menstrual irregularities and infertility. They are more likely to have symptoms like hirsutism, acne, alopecia, acanthosis nigricans etc. With certain changes in diet and lifestyle, it may be possible to improve the reproductive health and infertility.
PCOS and Cardiovascular health
Women suffering from PCOS have increased prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors like: hypertension, increased levels of cholesterol and triglycerides and abnormal vascular function markers. These cardiovascular symptoms can start at an early age, and increase the risk of atherosclerosis at an earlier age.
PCOS and Endometrial cancer
Women suffering from PCOS are at an increased risk of developing endometrial cancer. Women with PCOS and also suffering from obesity, diabetes, or hypertension are at an increased risk of endometrial cancer.
Lifestyle recommendations for reducing the burden of PCOS complications:
- Regular moderate exercise
- Weight loss
- Quit smoking
- Limit the intake of caffeine and alcohol
- Reduce stress
- Consider natural treatment options like ayurveda
Try herbal treatment options, designed especially for PCOS by Charak Pharma
HYPONIDD tablets – The herbal insulin sensitizer
HYPONIDD consists of ingredients useful in PCOS such as: Haridra, Tarwar, Amalaki, Meshashringi, Vijaysaar, Guduchi etc.
- Improves the function of ovaries
- Decreases the insulin resistance
- It decreases androgenic features like acne, hirsutism, alopecia and acanthosis nigricans
- Increases the insulin sensitivity and thus corrects lipid metabolism and reduces dyslipidemia
- Induces ovulation and thus enhances fertility outcomes
CYSTOLIB NUTRA Tablets – A phytonutraceutical for liberation from ovarian cysts
CYSTOLIB NUTRA consists of ingredients like: Aloe, Cinnamon, Magnesium, Calcium, Vitamin D3, Folic acid, Zinc etc. which are beneficial in PCOS.
- Normalizes the menstrual cycles
- Induces ovulation
- Insulin sensitivity improves
- Improves lipid profile
- Facilitates weight loss
Lifestyle recommendations and herbal treatment options will definitely help you go a long way and combat the effects of PCOS.