As distressing and alarming as it is, women’s healthcare in India is still largely and unevenly underdeveloped. Women’s physical, sexual, and nutritional health continues to be on the sidelines of the main healthcare framework. One of the most common conditions women in the country have been suffering from, and is being largely ignored still, is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, commonly known as PCOS.
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What is PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a very common hormonal disorder. Women with PCOS may have an inconsistent period cycle or excess male hormone (androgen) levels. The underlying condition is that our enlarged ovaries may develop follicles that hamper the regular release of eggs.
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How do you check if you have PCOS?
If you suffer from any of the below mentioned symptoms, we recommend you check with your gynaecologist immediately:
1. Irregular menstrual cycle is the most common sign of PCOS. A normal cycle should be between 28-30 days. Extreme levels of blood flow is also a major concern.
2. Excessive hair growth on the face and body.
3. Breakouts and acne on the face, chest, and upper back.
4. Weight gain is a primary sign of PCOS.
5. Unusual amounts of hair loss, thinning of hair, and male-pattern baldness.
6. Unpredictable bouts of headaches triggered by imbalanced hormones.
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Causes that contribute to PCOS
1. The insulin hormone breaks down sugar that our body uses as a source of energy. High levels of blood sugar results in more production of insulin which in turn increases levels of androgen.
2. Low-grade inflammation or our body’s natural defence system against infections stimulates polycystic ovaries to produce androgens.
3. PCOS can also be genetic.
4. Excessive levels of androgen in the body.
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Living with PCOS: diet and exercise
Although not a high-risk illness, unchecked PCOS can lead to infertility, failure to conceive, cause type 2 diabetes, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and endometrial cancer, among others. Lots of Indian celebrities have been vocal about their journey with PCOS including the likes of Kareena Kapoor Khan, Shruti Haasan, and Himanshi Khurana. The best way to tackle it is maintaining a healthy lifestyle—diet and exercise.
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Weight loss can help regulate the menstrual cycle, improve cholesterol levels, lower insulin, and reduce risks of heart diseases and diabetes. A low carbohydrate diet can work wonders! Go heavy on food items with high protein and low carbs like meats, fish, eggs, nuts, seeds, vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats. Minimize the intake of grains, potatoes, sugary drinks, desserts, and high-sugar junk foods.
Exercise 3-4 times a week along with a healthy diet can help you maintain your body fat percentage and regulate your weight. Running, jogging, yoga, moderate intensity sports can also help staying fit.
Lead, social, and thumbnail images credit: YouTube/JeevanKosh
Vertical image credit: Instagram/KareenaKapoorKhan
