How To Cure PCOS?

Author: Dr Amrapali Dixit

Date : 11 May 2024

Link : https://www.miracleshealth.com/blog/how-to-cure-pcos-permanently

 

How to Cure PCOS Permanently?

PCOS affects millions of women worldwide, creating chaos in their hormonal balance, menstrual cycles, and overall well-being. But fear not, because this blog reveals the secrets to breaking free from this condition once and for all.

What is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects reproductive-aged women, indicated by irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels, and multiple small cysts on the ovaries. It's a leading cause of infertility due to disrupted ovulation. Beyond fertility issues, PCOS disease can lead to various long-term health complications, including insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. As per WHO (World Health Organization), PCOS affects 8–13% of reproductive-aged women globally, with up to 70% undiagnosed. It disrupts fertility, being a leading cause of anovulation and infertility, and leads to long-term health issues affecting physical and emotional well-being.

The cause of PCOS usually involves a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Early diagnosis and intervention are important for managing the problem and reducing the risk of associated health issues. Management of PCOS typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, along with medications to regulate hormones and treat symptoms.

Symptoms of PCOS

The symptoms can vary widely among individuals, but they commonly include:

• Irregular periods: Women with PCOS disease often have irregular menstrual cycles. This can be evident as periods that occur less frequently than every 21 to 35 days, or they may have heavy or prolonged periods.

• Excess androgen: Elevated levels of male hormones (androgens) can lead to physical signs such as excess facial and body hair (hirsutism), particularly on the face, chest, back, and abdomen. Androgen excess can also cause acne and male-pattern baldness.
• Polycystic ovaries: As the name suggests, the ovaries might develop multiple small collections of fluid (follicles) and fail to release eggs regularly. However, not all females with PCOS have polycystic ovaries.
• Difficulty conceiving: PCOS is one of the leading causes of female infertility due to irregular ovulation or failure to ovulate.
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight: Many women with PCOS have difficulty managing their weight or experience weight gain, often with central obesity (weight gain around the waist).
• Fatigue: Feeling tired and lacking energy is common among women with PCOS, likely due to hormonal imbalances and sleep disturbances.
• Skin issues: In addition to acne, PCOS can manifest as skin tags, darkening of the skin (acanthosis nigricans), and patches of thickened, velvety, darkened skin, especially around the neck, groin, and underarms.
• Mood changes: Women with PCOS may experience mood swings, depression, or anxiety, possibly due to hormonal fluctuations and the stress of managing symptoms.

• Insulin resistance and metabolic issues: Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which can lead to high blood sugar levels and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Causes

The exact cause of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is not fully understood, but it's believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Here are several factors contribute to the development of PCOS including:

• Hormonal imbalance: Females with PCOS disease often have higher-than-normal levels of androgens (male hormones) such as testosterone. This imbalance of hormones can disrupt the normal function of the ovaries and interfere with ovulation.

• Insulin resistance: Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which means their cells don't respond effectively to insulin, leading to high levels of insulin in the blood. Insulin resistance can contribute to the overproduction of androgens by the ovaries, leading to hormonal imbalances.
• Genetics: PCOS tends to run in families. Having a family member with PCOS increases the risk of developing it.
• Inflammation: Chronic low-grade inflammation may also contribute to developing PCOS and disrupt ovarian function.
• Lifestyle factors: Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle can exacerbate insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances, increasing the risk of PCOS. Conversely, maintaining a healthy weight and regular physical activity may help reduce the risk and severity of PCOS symptoms.
• Exposure to certain hormones in the womb: Some research suggests that exposure to high levels of androgens in the womb may increase the risk of developing PCOS later in life.
• Stress: Chronic stress may contribute to hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance, potentially worsening PCOS symptoms.

If you suspect you have a PCOS problem or are experiencing its symptoms, it's important to consult with a female gynae near you for proper diagnosis and management.

 

How is PCOS Diagnosed?

Diagnosing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and various tests to evaluate the symptoms and rule out other conditions. The diagnosis process may include the following steps:

 

1. Medical history: The PCOS specialist will ask about your menstrual cycles, symptoms (such as irregular periods, hirsutism, acne, and hair loss), medical history, family history of PCOS or other reproductive disorders, and any medications you are currently taking.
2. Physical examination:A physical examination may include checking your blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), and signs of excess hair growth, acne, or male-pattern baldness.
3. Pelvic examination: Your gynecologist may conduct a pelvic examination to check for any abnormalities in the reproductive organs, such as enlarged ovaries or ovarian cysts.
4. Blood tests:
   1. Hormone levels:Blood tests may be done to measure levels of various hormones, including testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and prolactin. Increased levels of androgens (male hormones) and LH, and a higher LH-to-FSH ratio, are common findings in women with PCOS.
   2. Glucose and insulin levels:Blood tests may be done to measure fasting glucose and insulin levels to check for insulin resistance, a common feature of PCOS.
   3. Lipid profile: Blood tests may also be performed to measure lipid levels (cholesterol and triglycerides) to evaluate cardiovascular risk, as women with PCOS are at higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
5. Pelvic ultrasound:A pelvic ultrasound may be performed to view the ovaries and uterus and look for distinct features of PCOS, such as multiple cysts on the ovaries and increased ovarian volume. 

 

Note: Not all females with PCOS will have ovarian cysts, and the presence of cysts alone is not sufficient for a diagnosis of PCOS. Based on the results of these tests and examinations, a PCOS specialist will determine whether you meet the diagnostic criteria for PCOS disease and recommend the best possible treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Ways to Cure PCOS Permanently

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder with no known cure, but it can be managed effectively through various treatments and lifestyle changes. While PCOS cannot be cured permanently, the symptoms can often be relieved, and the condition can be managed to improve overall health and quality of life. Here are some polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) treatment approaches to manage it: 

1. Lifestyle changes:

• Healthy diet:A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help regulate blood sugar levels and insulin resistance, common in PCOS. Limiting processed foods, sugars, and refined carbohydrates is also beneficial.
• Regular exercise: Physical activity can help improve insulin sensitivity, promote weight loss, and regulate menstrual cycles. Perform moderate-intensity exercises such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling at least 150 minutes per week.
• Weight management: Losing even a small amount of weight (5-10% of body weight) can improve symptoms of PCOS, including menstrual irregularities, insulin resistance, and fertility.Working with a gynecologist or dietitian to develop a personalized weight loss plan is recommended.

1. Medications:

• Birth control pills: Oral contraceptives containing estrogen and progestin can regulate menstrual cycles, reduce androgen levels, and improve acne and hirsutism in women with PCOS.
• Anti-androgen medications:Drugs such as spironolactone can help reduce symptoms of excess facial and body hair (hirsutism) and acne by blocking the effects of androgens.
• Metformin:This medication is commonly used to treat insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. It may help improve menstrual regularity, ovulation, and fertility in women with PCOS, especially those who have insulin resistance.
• Ovulation induction:Fertility medications such as clomiphene citrate or letrozole may be prescribed to induce ovulation in women with PCOS who are trying to conceive.

3. Other treatments:
   • Laser therapy or electrolysis: These treatments can help reduce unwanted hair growth (hirsutism) in women with PCOS.
   • Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be recommended to remove ovarian cysts or to perform ovarian drilling, a procedure that involves making small holes in the ovaries to improve ovulation.
4. Alternative therapies:
   • Acupuncture:Some women find acupuncture helpful for managing symptoms of PCOS, although more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
   • Herbal supplements:Certain herbs and supplements, such as inositol, berberine, and omega-3 fatty acids, may have beneficial effects on insulin sensitivity and hormone levels in women with PCOS. However, it's important to consult with a gynecologist before starting any new supplements.

While there's no one-size-fits-all approach to managing PCOS, a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and other treatments can help control symptoms and improve overall health. Women with PCOS need to work closely with their gynecologists to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to their individual needs and goals. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are also important to ensure optimal management of the condition.

Home Remedies For  PCOS:

While home remedies cannot cure polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), they can complement medical treatment and lifestyle changes to help manage symptoms and improve overall health. Here are some suggested home remedies for PCOS:

1. Healthy diet:
   • Balanced nutrition: Eat a well-balanced diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods, sugary snacks, and refined carbohydrates to maintain health.
   • Low-glycemic index foods:Eat foods with a low glycemic index such as oats, legumes, nuts, seeds, and non-starchy vegetables to help stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce insulin resistance.
   • Omega-3 fatty acids: Include the sources of omega-3 fatty acids such as fatty fish, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts in your diet. Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce insulin resistance and improve lipid profiles.
2. Regular exercise:Engage yourself in routine physical activities to improve insulin sensitivity, promote weight loss, and reduce stress. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, such as brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming.
3. Stress management: Practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or tai chi to help manage stress levels. Chronic stress can exacerbate hormonal imbalances and worsen PCOS symptoms.
4. Herbal remedies:
   • Cinnamon: It may help improve insulin sensitivity and regulate menstrual cycles in women with PCOS. Add cinnamon to foods and beverages or take cinnamon supplements after consulting with a gynecologist.
   • Spearmint tea: Drinking spearmint tea may help reduce levels of androgens (male hormones) and alleviate hirsutism (excess facial and body hair) in women with PCOS. Drink one to two cups of spearmint tea daily.
5. Maintain a healthy weight:If overweight or obese, aim to achieve and maintain a healthy weight through a combination of diet, exercise, and lifestyle modifications. Even a modest weight loss of 5-10% can improve insulin sensitivity, regulate menstrual cycles, and reduce symptoms of PCOS.
6. Limit exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals:Minimize exposure to environmental toxins and endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in plastics, pesticides, and certain personal care products. Choose BPA-free plastics, organic produce, and natural household and personal care products whenever possible.
7. Adequate sleep: Prioritize getting enough high-quality sleep each night, as insufficient sleep can disrupt hormone levels and exacerbate PCOS symptoms. Get an adequate sleep of 7-9 hours per night and establish a relaxing bedtime routine.

 

While these home remedies can help manage PCOS symptoms, it's essential to consult with a PCOS specialist in Gurgaon before making significant changes to your diet, lifestyle, or supplement regimen, especially if you're taking medications or have other underlying health conditions. A comprehensive approach that combines home remedies with medical treatment and regular monitoring is typically most effective in managing PCOS.

Conclusion

PCOS offers significant challenges, but the good thing is that it's a manageable condition. By adopting a proactive approach, making lifestyle modifications, seeking medical treatment when necessary, and exploring holistic approaches, you can effectively manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Remember, every female's journey with PCOS is unique, so work closely with your gynecologists (Dr. Amrapali Dixit, Dr. Prachi Sarin) to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your individual needs and goals. With dedicated treatment, you can go through the complexities of PCOS and thrive.

Whether you're seeking information, support, or guidance on managing PCOS, we are here to help. Reach out to the best  PCOS dr near you at Miracles Healthcare to discuss your concerns and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.