Irregular Periods? Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Could Be The Reason

Polycystic means “many cysts,” and PCOS often causes clusters of acute, pearl-sized cysts in the ovaries. The cysts are filled with a fluid and contain immature eggs. Women with PCOS typically have irregular or missed periods as a result of not ovulating.  Women with PCOS produce slightly higher amounts of male hormones known as androgens, which contribute to some of the symptoms of the condition.

     SYMPTOMS :

• Missed/ Irregular Periods
• Infertility/ Miscarriage
• Psychological Issues
• Weight Gain
• Fatigue
• Unwanted Hair Growth ( Hirsutism)
• Thinning Hair on the Head
• Mood Changes
• Acne
• Pelvic Pain
• Headache
• Sleep Problems

At least 5% to 10% of women of childbearing age (between 15 and 44) have PCOS.  It can happen at any age after puberty. Women of all races and ethnicities are at risk for PCOS, but your risk for PCOS may be higher if you are obese or if it is hereditary.

STRESS and PCOS:

In today’s world stress has become a very common phenomenon. People have started leading sedentary lifestyles without any exercise, eating unhealthy foods and indulging in the consumption of other harmful substances. Research has found this to be one the major leading causes of the onset of PCOS at an early age.  Stress is often found to be the major factor in the onset of Insulin Resistance. Menstrual dysfunction, along with the physical symptoms of hormone imbalance,  has become increasingly common over the past few decades. Women with PCOS also have higher rates of anxiety and depression, either caused or exacerbated by the embarrassing physical changes that often occur with the condition.

How does stress impact your hormones?

The pituitary gland is stimulated by the brain via the hypothalamus. It secretes adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in response to stress. This further stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol, adrenaline, and noradrenaline. Women who are under chronic stress have more chances for elevated ACTH which elevates androgens.These hormones may start to react more severely to stressful situations.

How to get rid of such chronic stress?

Controlling stress is not only challenging but there is no easy and quick fix solution for the long-term effects of regular stress. Society has created certain norms which lead to stress due to perfectionism in order to “look better naked,” or live an envy-worthy body which feels great.

You can win the battle against stress by following the below tasks:

• Follow a healthy diet and drink plenty of fluids

Conventional recommendations for PCOS involve weight loss and increase insulin sensitivity by reducing carbohydrate intake, cutting calories and increasing physical activities. Eat healthily and consider going to a dietitian if necessary.

• Practice a healthy workout

Overtraining is an evident symptom of under-recovery. Eating and sleeping enough and taking  rest regularly can minimize the impact of a hormonal disruption.

• Get enough sleep

If you’re having trouble falling or staying asleep, you should review your diet and exercise regime. High-quality sleep is undeniable. It benefits to increase energy, performance, and cognitive function.

• Broaden your mindset

Changing your mindset though difficult is very important. Body image shaming is a common mindset issue. Research shows that women with the lowest body image also have the highest levels of cortisol. Building body confidence can not happen overnight. If looking at your body is stressful, start by focusing on happier things.

Are you feeling stressed? Talk to Experts at YourDOST who can help you understand better and solve your issues.