Author: Srilekha potula

Pregnant with PCOS: The Uphill Battle to Pregnancy

Periods or menstruation cycles are an important part of a woman. The purpose of menstruation is to prepare the body for getting pregnant. Periods are also essential for your well-being and it is the way your body releases the tissue it no longer needs. Having regular periods is a sign that you are healthy. Now let’s see how these menstruation cycles in a woman are important for pregnancy.

How periods are related to pregnancy?

The ovary is one of the parts that produce eggs in a woman’s body. It resides on either side of the uterus. This ovary contains millions of eggs, every month one free egg is released into the fallopian tube, now after the egg is released either it meets the sperm and fertilizes or it arrives in the uterus unfertilized and absorbed back into the body resulting in the menstruation cycle.

So if the egg doesn’t fertilize it means you didn’t conceive in your previous cycle.

This is the normal process of pregnancy, however, women with PCOS tend to face difficulties in getting pregnant due to hormonal imbalances.

Let’s now talk about the difficulties pregnant women with PCOS may encounter.

Impact of PCOS on woman trying to get Pregnant :

Women with PCOS face many challenges however one of the main challenges is related to fertility and getting pregnant. Here are some of the challenges they may encounter:

Irregular or missed periods :

Irregular periods in women with PCOS can make predicting ovulation and conceiving difficult. A lack of regular menstrual cycles may suggest irregular or missing ovulation, which reduces the likelihood of becoming pregnant.
Anovulation:

Anovulation means the absence of ovulation i.e., an egg is not released which is necessary for conception. This can have a significant impact on pregnancy in women with PCOS. PCOS frequently results in irregular or missing menstrual cycles, which leads to anovulation. Ovulation deficiency makes it difficult to conceive naturally, lowering the chances of pregnancy. Furthermore, PCOS-related hormonal abnormalities might alter the uterine lining, making it less susceptible to implantation.

Insulin resistance:

Most women with PCOS are insulin resistant. However, this insulin resistance had a bad impact during pregnancy by leading to gestational diabetes, a level where blood sugar levels become elevated. This can impact not just the mother but also the developing fetus. The infant may become macrosomic (big at birth), increasing the risk of problems during delivery. Additionally, maternal problems like hypertension might be brought on by insulin resistance.

Increased levels of male hormones:

In women with PCOS the levels of male hormones i.e., androgens are elevated. These higher levels of androgens are nothing but hormonal imbalances and these hormonal imbalances also increase the risk of miscarriage.
Ovarian Cysts:

Ovarian cysts can have a variety of pregnancy-related complications in women with PCOS. PCOS frequently results in numerous little cysts on the ovaries, which can interfere with regular ovulation and produce irregular menstrual cycles, making conception difficult. Not all cysts, nevertheless, have a deleterious effect on pregnancy. Cysts may occasionally release hormones that encourage conception in their early stages and may even go away on their own throughout pregnancy. However, larger cysts or ones that continue to grow could potentially result in difficulties or call for medical attention

.
Endometrial abnormalities:
These abnormalities in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can make pregnancy more difficult by interfering with embryo implantation. Inadequate shedding of the endometrial lining and irregular menstrual cycles can result in thinner and less responsive endometrium. This diminishes the likelihood of successful embryo attachment, resulting in lower conception rates in PCOS patients.
Obesity:

Women with PCOS who are obese or have weight problems may experience pregnancy complications. Obesity can exacerbate hormonal imbalances, which can result in irregular menstrual periods and decreased fertility. Obese women with PCOS are more likely to experience pregnancy issues such as gestational diabetes, hypertension, and premature birth. Furthermore, obesity can reduce the efficiency of reproductive therapies.
Risk of infertility:

Ovulation, or the regular release of eggs from the ovaries, is disrupted by hormonal imbalances in PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), which can lead to infertility. Ovulation can be inhibited by high levels of androgens (male hormones), which can cause irregular or nonexistent menstrual cycles. The development and release of eggs might also be hampered by the existence of several tiny cysts in the ovaries. These elements may make it more challenging for women with PCOS to get pregnant naturally, raising the likelihood of infertility.
Difficulty in identifying pregnancy:

Because PCOS women have irregular cycles, it can be difficult to determine if a missed period is related to pregnancy or PCOS. This can result in delayed pregnancy awareness.
Psychological Issues:

Due to hormonal imbalances and fertility concerns, women with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) may face psychological issues during pregnancy. Anxiety, depression, and stress are all widespread, affecting mothers’ health and potentially leading to bad delivery outcomes. It is critical to manage these psychological disorders since they can impair prenatal treatment adherence and overall maternal health throughout pregnancy.

How to get pregnant with PCOS without medication:

Yes, women with PCOS might have challenges getting pregnant but it is not impossible. Women with PCOS can definitely get pregnant through natural means. However, it is always suggested to reverse PCOS first and then try getting pregnant so that there will be a healthy womb for the baby to grow and there won’t be any consequences of miscarriages due to hormonal imbalances.

How can a woman who wants to conceive naturally and wants to reverse PCOS achieve it?

This might be challenging as it doesn’t involve any medication that shows immediate or speeder effect however it is not impossible. Below are the steps a woman should follow to achieve this.

Healthy lifestyle

: A healthy lifestyle is nothing but

Adapting to eating habits that balance your blood sugar levels and including food that has high nutritional value than fat content,
regular exercise and
Managing stress and anxiety.

All these help to maintain hormonal balance which is vital to reverse PCOS.

Weight management:

Generally, women with PCOS may carry excess weight. But if you are trying to get pregnant losing weight will help to increase chances of fertility. Losing weight should be understood as losing fat in the body which is not necessary. Fibre-rich and water-rich foods are preferred as they give you energy and due to water content, it makes you full.
Reduce carbohydrates:

Limiting the intake of refined carbohydrates helps in maintaining blood sugar levels and improves hormone balance. Carbohydrates are nothing but sugar molecules. Along with proteins and fats carbohydrates are one of the three main nutrients that are present in food and drinks.
Balance hormones naturally:

The main cause of PCOS is hormonal imbalances. And most of the challenges a woman with PCOS face to pregnant are due to hormonal imbalances. So balancing the hormones is the only way to reverse PCOS naturally which then helps to conceive naturally.

So to balance the hormones naturally we have to focus on 5 pillars:

Eat right: It’s not just what you eat that affects your health but also when you eat will affect. Our bodies work best to digest food when they are active and when sunlight is present, so if our biological clocks are out of sync with the environment, it may cause problems throughout the entire system. Therefore, eating or drinking in the dark or when your body anticipates rest hampers metabolism and prevents food from being properly digested.
Move more: Our body needs physical activity like exercise or workouts to keep it active. So lack of movement in the body makes it dumb and it functions slowly which results in hormonal imbalance. So regular exercise should be adopted to keep the body active so it works effectively there by the hormones are balanced.
Breath aware: Breath awareness is just noting each breath we take, which instantly reduces stress and promotes relaxation. We unlock a crucial doorway to enhance glandular function and hormone balance as we get a greater understanding of Pranayama, the science of breath. By utilizing the breath’s holistic effects, we transcend the ordinary and enhance our hormonal health.
Sleep better: Getting enough sleep improves the body’s capacity to balance hormone levels and promote healthy menstruation. Learn about the advantages of deep sleep, a powerful strategy for healing and rejuvenation. Through the practice of YogNidra, we embrace holistic potential, revealing hormonal equilibrium in the dream world. Prioritizing quality sleep thus aids in the management of PCOS.
Mind free: Actually, clearing your mind can help you feel less stressed. Explore the world of feelings, thoughts, and stress resilience; here, gratitude, journaling, and emotional practices serve as our moral compass. We may change our stress-to-calm narrative and boost our hormonal landscape by embracing emotional intelligence.

The above-mentioned 5 pillars of integrated lifestyle help women with PCOS to get pregnant by reversing PCOS naturally. However due care must be taken throughout the entire process and these 5 pillars of integrated lifestyle shall be followed even after reversing PCOS and during the pregnancy journey to make a healthy womb for the baby to grow.

Two-Day Periods: Unraveling the Mysteries

Menstruation can vary greatly between individuals, with regards to both the length of a period and the kind of flow. A cycle may be as brief as two days or may last as long as seven. Even though these timeframes are considered within the range of normal, there could be a particular cause for an abnormally short or extended duration. For example, if a period only lasts two days, it could signify an underlying issue.

Let’s discuss about shorter duration periods where it lasts for just two days.

Potential reasons for short periods:

There will always be some underlying explanation for any abnormality, therefore if short periods are considered odd; there will be some underlying rationale for this period.

Here are some possible reasons for shorter periods:

Hormonal fluctuations : Short periods might result from hormonal abnormalities since they interfere with the regular menstrual cycle. The endometrial lining may not grow properly due to fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels, which will reduce the amount of tissue, shed during menstruation. Shorter periods can also result from early endometrial lining loss brought on by fluctuating hormone levels.

Birth control :Due to the hormonal impact it has on the body, birth control may result in shorter periods. The majority of birth control methods include artificial hormones that manage the menstrual cycle. These hormones can stop the endometrium, which is lost during menstruation and thickens the uterine lining, from doing so. Hormonal birth control can shorten and lighten periods by thinning the endometrium and reducing the amount of tissue that needs to be lost. Additionally, some birth control methods, like the hormonal IUD or the contraceptive implant, might even completely suppress ovulation, leaving a woman without menstruation or with only very little spotting. Overall, birth control’s hormonal effects can change the menstrual cycle, resulting in lighter and shorter cycles.
Stress : Short episodes of stress can be caused by upsetting the delicate hormonal balance. When stressed, the body produces cortisol, which can disrupt the production of reproductive hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. This disruption can result in inconsistent ovulation and inadequate endometrial lining formation, resulting in shorter and lighter menstrual cycles.

PCOS : PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) may cause shorter and lighter menstrual cycles as a consequence of a disruption of hormones. Excessive androgens (male hormones) hinder the usual ovulation cycle, causing sporadic or nonexistent cycles. The absence of the necessary ovulation cycle prevents the uterine lining from fully forming, resulting in fewer and less heavy menstrual cycles.

Recent child birth :The birth of a child can cause transformations in a woman’s cycle of menstruation, such as shorter durations. Hormonal alterations take place in the aftermath of childbirth, as the body adapts to the absence of pregnancy. These changes in hormones can lead to fluctuating or shorter periods. The body may take a while to regulate the manufacture of the hormones progesterone and estrogen, which are vital for menstruation. Furthermore, the lochia bleeding, which is postpartum bleeding, can go on for some weeks after childbirth, having an impact on the cycle of menstruation and its regularity in the opening months.

Age : With age, hormone levels in women fluctuate, and estrogen decrease typically leads to fewer days of menstrual flow. This is due to the lesser buildup of the uterus lining, thereby reducing the amount of bleeding. Additionally, ovulation patterns can become erratic and cycles may be shortened because of age-related alterations to the ovaries.

Weight fluctuations : Fluctuations in weight can cause short-term alterations in hormone levels, leading to disruptions of the menstrual cycle. Estrogen and progesterone, in particular, are heavily impacted by major weight gain or loss. This disturbance of hormones may cause shorter and lighter menstrual periods. Thus, it is important to maintain a stable weight to ensure a normal menstrual cycle.

Breast feeding : Breastfeeding has been shown to affect the menstrual cycle, resulting in shorter periods. This is mostly due to the secretion of the hormone prolactin during breastfeeding. Prolactin inhibits the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), both of which are required for ovulation and the regulation of the menstrual cycle. The menstrual period becomes shorter as FSH and LH levels fall. Individual experiences may differ, and not all women will experience shorter periods while breastfeeding. Breastfeeding frequency and intensity, as well as individual hormonal changes, can all have an impact on the menstrual cycle.

Endometriosis :Because of the abnormal growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, endometriosis can cause brief periods. This misplaced tissue responds to hormonal changes as the menstrual cycle proceeds, but it cannot be removed properly during menstruation. As a result, the period may be shorter, with significant pain and other symptoms

Pelvic inflammatory disease : By influencing the reproductive organs, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) can induce brief periods. Inflammation in the pelvic area can interfere with proper hormonal regulation and the development of the endometrial lining. As a result, menstruation may become shorter and more irregular, followed by pelvic pain and discomfort.
Ovarian cysts : Ovarian cysts can alter the usual hormonal balance, resulting in brief periods. Some cysts can release hormones that disrupt ovulation and the growth of the endometrial lining. As a result, the menstrual cycle may become erratic, with periods becoming shorter and lighter than typical.
Uterine abnormalities : Uterine conditions such as polyps, fibroids, and a septate uterus can interrupt the development of the endometrium, thus lessening the amount of tissue available for shedding during menstruation. Consequently, the duration of the cycle will become shorter and lighter. It is critical to accurately identify and treat any irregularities in the uterus to preserve a regular menstrual cycle.
Thyroid issues : Thyroid problems can induce brief periods by interfering with hormone levels. Both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can impair reproductive hormone production, including estrogen and progesterone. These hormonal abnormalities can result in sporadic or absent ovulation, a thinner endometrial lining, and shorter, lighter periods.
Perimenopause : As women get closer to menopause, Perimenopause leads to decreasing levels of reproductive hormones, leading to an irregular cycle and inadequate uterine lining. This causes menstrual cycles to be shorter and lighter during the premenopausal phase, eventually leading to cessation of menstruation once menopause is attained.
Miscarriage : Following a miscarriage, the body will usually undergo a phase of post-miscarriage bleeding, which can be similar to a menstrual cycle . This may occur for a few days to a few weeks, as the uterus expels the fetal tissue and the menstrual cycle attempts to return to its natural rhythm. The next menstrual period may be shorter than usual since the uterine lining has been recently shed, so it needs time to rebuild fully. It is imperative to seek guidance and support from a medical professional in the wake of a miscarriage.

CAN WE STOP HEAVY PERIODS BY DRINKING WATER ?

Periods are nothing but the menstrual cycles in a woman. Now these periods can be in two different types: Heavy periods and Light periods. Heavy periods involve excessive bleeding and may need to replace their pads or tampons every hour for several hours.
Light periods are known for reduced flow of bleeding or shorter duration. There are many other types like irregular periods, painful periods or absent periods. However, now we are going to discuss about heavy periods; its causes and whether drinking water helps to stop heavy periods or not.

Reasons for Heavy periods:

Heavy periods are also called menorrhagia. There are various factors that causes heavy periods let’s see a few of them.

Hormonal imbalances: Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels can cause the uterine lining to develop excessively, resulting in severe bleeding during periods.
Uterine fibroids: These are also known as myomas are growths that appear in the uterus. Non–cancerous growths in the uterus can cause heavy periods.
Adenomyosis: This disorder develops when the endometrium, the tissue that lines the uterus, expands into the muscular walls of the uterus, resulting in heavier and more uncomfortable periods.
Intrauterine devices: These are one form of birth control which is inserted into the uterus. Some IUD’s may reduce the bleeding while others may cause heavy periods as a side effect.
Pelvic inflammatory diseases: Infections in the reproductive organs may lead to heavy and painful periods.
Polyps: Uterine polyps means growths attached to the inner wall of the uterus that expands into the uterus. These growths on the uterine lining can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding.
Blood clotting disorder: Certain blood clotting disorders may also result in heavy periods leading to excessive bleeding due to impaired blood clotting during menstruation.
Medication: Heavy menstrual bleeding may be caused by some drugs, including anticoagulants and hormone therapies.
Underlying medical condition: Heavy periods may be a symptom of underlying diseases including thyroid problems or bleeding disorders (such as von Willebrand disease).
Kidney or liver disease: Blood clotting factors can be affected by liver or kidney disease, which can also lead to significant bleeding.
Obesity: Excess body fat may raise estrogen levels, which could result in heavier periods.
Intrauterine adhesions: Uterine scarring may cause painful and protracted menstrual cycles.
Stress: Prolonged stress might interfere with the production of hormones, resulting in heavy menstrual bleeding.
Ectopic pregnancy: A pregnancy that occurs outside of the uterus might result in irregular bleeding.
Miscarriage: During the menstrual cycle, a miscarriage may result in significant bleeding.
Perimenopause: Hormone changes that occur during perimenopause might result in heavy and erratic menstrual bleeding.

How does drinking water control Heavy periods?

Drinking water alone cannot help to stop or control heavy periods. However, it will keep the body hydrated which is vital for overall health and can help manage menstrual symptoms, including heavy periods. Heavy bleeding causes the body to lose a lot of water as well as blood and iron. Therefore, staying hydrated is beneficial in both cases.

Hormonal balances: Water affects hormone production and control, which can have an indirect effect on the menstrual cycle. So drinking water and staying hydrated, may help to balance the hormones which are one of the reasons for heavy bleeding.
Water and Uterine contractions: Dehydration can make uterine contractions stronger, which could result in heavier periods. Water consumption can mitigate these effects.
Water and bloating: Getting adequate water helps to reduce menstrual bloating and in managing heavy menstruation in a simpler way.
Preventing constipation: Constipation can be avoided by drinking enough water, which may relieve pressure on the pelvic region during menstruation and potentially minimize heavy bleeding.
Anaemia prevention: Heavy bleeding can result in iron loss and anaemia. Staying hydrated can help.
Body temperature control: Maintaining a healthy level of water lowers the probability of menstruation symptoms including cramping and heavy bleeding.
Blood flow and hydration: Keeping hydrated promotes healthy blood flow, even during menstruation, which may help control the intensity of menstrual flow.
Supporting kidney function: Adequate hydration helps the kidneys work properly, enabling the body to get rid of waste and extra fluids that could affect the menstrual cycle.
Avoiding diuretics: Drinking water can help you avoid using diuretics, which can increase dehydration and interfere with menstrual flow.
Alleviating menstrual discomfort: Drinking water can help relieve the general discomfort associated with periods, making it easier to cope with heavy menstrual flow.
Function of the Endocrine System: Water aids in the function of the endocrine system, which regulates menstruation.
Blood Sugar Stabilization: Proper hydration aids in the stabilization of blood sugar levels, which can have an impact on menstrual health.
Increasing Energy Levels: Adequate hydration helps to maintain overall energy levels by reducing weariness during periods.
Regular Menstrual Cycle Support: Adequate water consumption may aid in the maintenance of a normal menstrual cycle by maintaining hormonal balance.
Getting Rid of Dizziness and Lightheadedness: Water can help prevent dizziness or lightheadedness induced by excessive blood loss.
Complementing other treatments: Water is helpful, but managing heavy periods should involve a comprehensive strategy that also includes seeking the best strategy for other natural ways to control heavy periods.

Apart from drinking water, there are few other natural means to control heavy periods. We know that hormonal imbalances are one of the reasons for heavy periods so maintaining a perfect hormonal balance aids to reduce heavy periods. This can be possible by the 5 pillars which help to maintain hormonal balances. The 5 pillars are Eat right, Move more, Breath aware, Sleep better and Mind free.

Eat right: Eating right means adapting to healthy food habits which include fiber and water-rich foods. Fibre and water are rich in leafy vegetables and mostly natural products. By opting for local and seasonal choices, we honour nature’s wisdom. Increase consumption of this type of food can improve insulin sensitivity and digestion. Avoid fried and processed foods as they increase inflammation and blood sugar levels which affect hormonal balances.
Move more: Embracing continual activity throughout the day promotes epigenetic expression, kindling hormonal equilibrium. Engage in enjoyable exercises, such as dancing or yoga, to harness the power of epigenetic triggers. Maintaining a healthy weight through physical exercise can aid in balancing the hormones.
Breath aware: We unlock a crucial doorway to enhance glandular function and hormone balance as we get a greater understanding of Pranayama, the science of breath. By utilizing the breath’s epigenetic effects, we transcend the ordinary and enhance our hormonal health.
Sleep better: Hormonal imbalances can be brought on by sleep deprivation and/or poor sleep quality, which can aggravate insulin resistance. Hence having quality sleep helps in managing the hormones. One can adopt the practice of Yognidra which helps to have quality sleep thereby balancing the hormones.
Mind free: Actually, clearing your mind can help you feel less stressed. Explore the world of feelings, thoughts, and stress resilience; here, gratitude, journaling, and emotional practices serve as our moral compass. We may change our stress-to-calm narrative and boost our hormonal landscape by embracing epigenetic intelligence.

Know Your Body: 30 PCOS Symptoms You Need to Know

PCOS is a disorder that is basically caused due to hormonal imbalances. When we hear the term PCOS, we think of irregular periods. Yes, many of us are aware that the most prevalent and well-known symptom of PCOS is irregular periods; however, there are many more symptoms that many of us are unaware of or have never heard of.

It is vital to be aware of the symptoms in order to treat the problem. Women who have regular periods may believe they do not have PCOS, although there is a chance they might have it but because they are not unaware of the other symptoms they don’t know it. So it is essential that every woman be informed of the signs of PCOS.

Now, let’s look at the top 30 PCOS symptoms that every woman should be aware of.

Heavy periods: A heavy period refer to unusually heavy bleeding throughout the menstrual cycle that lasts longer than normal and necessitates more frequent tampon or pad changes. This illness may result in anemia, lethargy, and discomfort and is characterized by the passage of big blood clots.
Excess Hair Growth: Excessive hair growth, often known as hirsutism, is a typical symptom of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). It is caused by high androgen hormone levels in women, which causes thick, black hair to grow in places normally associated with male-pattern hair development, such as the face, chest, back, and belly.
Acne: Acne is a polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) condition caused by hormonal abnormalities. Elevated androgen levels in PCOS women can cause an overproduction of sebum, blocking hair follicles and creating inflammation
leading to acne breakouts, most commonly on the face, chest, and back. In people with PCOS, treating the hormonal imbalance can help manage and improve acne.
Hair loss: Hair loss is a typical symptom of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) caused by hormonal abnormalities. High levels of androgens in women with PCOS can cause hair follicle miniaturization and early shedding, resulting in thinning hair and hair loss.
Insulin resistance: One of the main symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is insulin resistance. It happens when the body’s cells stop responding as well to insulin, which raises blood sugar levels.
Insulin resistance may encourage the production of too many androgens by the ovaries in PCOS, upsetting the hormonal balance and leading to a variety of symptoms such as irregular periods, acne, and hirsutism.
Type 2 diabetes: Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic condition linked to polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Because of insulin resistance and rising blood sugar levels, women with PCOS are at a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to major health consequences over time, making regular screening and management crucial for people with PCOS.
Obesity: Obesity is a common symptom of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).The hormonal imbalances in PCOS can contribute to weight gain and difficulty in losing weight. Since fat cells can create hormones that interfere with normal metabolic and reproductive functions, being overweight can make the condition worse.
Fatigue: Fatigue is a common PCOS symptom. PCOS’s hormonal abnormalities and insulin resistance can cause blood sugar variations, decreasing energy levels and producing weariness. Heavy monthly bleeding, sleep difficulties, and PCOS-related stress can all contribute to feelings of tiredness.
Sleep disturbances: Hormonal imbalances and accompanying diseases such as insulin resistance can disturb sleep patterns, causing difficulty getting asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restorative sleep. These abnormalities can exacerbate fatigue and have a detrimental influence on general well-being.
Mood swings: Mood swings are seen is most women during their menstruation cycle but we don’t now that it is also a PCOS symptom. PCOS hormone abnormalities can impact neurotransmitters in the brain, causing mood swings and emotional shifts. These mood fluctuations can include everything from anger and anxiety to sadness and depression.
Anxiety: Anxiety is known to be most common in women but it is also one of the PCOS symptoms. Women with PCOS may suffer heightened anxiety, which can interfere with everyday life and overall well-being.
Depression: Depression is also a PCOS symptom which many of us don’t know. Not just our day-to-day situations but also hormonal imbalances can cause depression and have an impact on one’s disposition, drive, and quality of life.
Skin tags: Skin tags are also seen as PCOS symptoms. Skin tag means small and soft growth on the skin. These are caused by insulin resistance and hormonal alterations, both of which are common in PCOS women.
Headaches: Frequent headaches are also seemed common in women with PCOS. These are caused due to hormonal imbalances and many other PCOS factors.
Pelvic pain: Pelvic pain is a typical PCOS symptom. The pain could be caused by enlarged ovaries with numerous cysts, which cause pressure and discomfort in the lower abdomen. The level of PCOS-related pelvic pain varies, and it is frequently accompanied by irregular menstrual cycles, excessive hair growth, and hormonal imbalances.
Infertility: Infertility is a PCOS symptom, which is characterized by hormonal imbalances that impair normal ovulation. Due to irregular or nonexistent menstrual periods, the disorder makes it difficult to conceive by impeding the release of mature eggs for fertilization.
Miscarriage: A possible side effect of PCOS, a hormonal condition that affects women’s reproductive health, is miscarriage. Ovulation irregularities and hormonal imbalances brought on by PCOS can raise the chance of miscarriage.
Miscarriages during the first trimester of pregnancy may occur as a result of the spontaneous loss of the embryo or fetus. The risk of miscarriage can be decreased with early PCOS diagnosis and therapy.
Cysts on ovaries: Ovarian cysts are one of the typical PCOS symptoms. Small fluid-filled sacs develop on the ovaries as a result of the disorder, which interferes with proper ovulation. Hormonal imbalances, abnormal menstrual periods, and problems with conception may be brought on by these cysts.
Illustration of a female disease – Polycystic ovary
Reduced breast size: Typical PCOS symptoms include reduced breast size, which is brought on by hormonal abnormalities. Lower estrogen levels brought on by PCOS can influence breast development and reduce breast tissue.
To find the underlying cause, it’s crucial to take into account other variables that could affect breast size variations and to get a medical checkup.
Pain during intercourse: Dyspareunia, or pain during intercourse, is a PCOS symptom. Ovarian cysts and hormonal abnormalities can cause vaginal dryness, decreased lubrication, and pelvic discomfort during intercourse.
High cholesterol levels: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can be characterized by elevated cholesterol levels. PCOS is connected with insulin resistance, which results in high insulin levels, which can increase cholesterol synthesis in the liver.
Furthermore, hormonal abnormalities in PCOS may lead to improper lipid metabolism, resulting in greater cholesterol levels and a higher risk of cardiovascular issues.
High blood pressure: Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can be a sign of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is associated with insulin resistance, which can result in elevated insulin levels. Elevated insulin levels may contribute to hypertension by interfering with blood vessel function and leading the body to retain salt and water.
Joint pain: A lesser-known PCOS symptom is joint pain. PCOS-related hormonal abnormalities and inflammation can cause joint soreness and stiffness. Elevated androgens and insulin resistance may have a role in joint inflammation.
Digestive issues: Bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and other digestive problems might be signs of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
In PCOS, hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance might decrease gut motility and worsen gastrointestinal inflammation. Changes in bowel habits and gastrointestinal pain may result from these disruptions.
Snoring: Because of the hormonal imbalances and weight gain associated with the disorder, snoring can be a PCOS symptom. PCOS can cause an increase in androgens and insulin resistance, which can contribute to weight gain and fat distribution around the neck and throat. This can cause snoring and sleep disruptions by obstructing the airway during sleep.
Oily skin: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is frequently characterized by oily skin. In PCOS, hormonal abnormalities can result in an increase in androgen production, which prompts the sebaceous glands to generate more oil. This extra oil can clog pores and cause outbreaks of acne.
Skin discoloration: PCOS can cause skin discolorations such as dark spots or acanthosis nigricans. Insulin resistance in PCOS can cause aberrant melanin production, resulting in skin darkening in specific places such as the neck, armpits, or groin.
Treating the underlying cause of PCOS with lifestyle modifications and medications can help improve skin discoloration and restore an even skin tone.
Breast tenderness: Breast soreness is a PCOS symptom that is most likely influenced by hormone abnormalities. PCOS can cause breast tenderness and pain due to elevated androgen levels and a disturbed estrogen-progesterone ratio.
PCOS can be managed with lifestyle changes and hormonal medications, which may help decrease breast tenderness and other symptoms. Regular breast inspections are required to rule out other possible reasons and to guarantee overall breast health.
High triglyceride & androgen levels: High triglyceride levels are frequently accompanied by insulin resistance in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which encourages the liver’s production of triglycerides.
Due to hormonal abnormalities, PCOS also causes high androgen levels. High triglyceride levels and androgens are linked to a number of symptoms, including irregular periods, hirsutism (excessive hair growth), and problems with conception.
Thinning hair on the scalp: Thinning hair on the scalp is a PCOS symptom, which is impacted by hormone abnormalities.
Elevated androgen levels in PCOS can cause increased hair shedding and hair follicle shrinkage. Androgenetic alopecia is a disorder that causes gradual hair loss on the scalp, especially in a male-pattern distribution.

These are the 30 PCOS symptoms that every woman should be aware of in order to recognize and diagnose PCOS.

Eating Your Way to PCOS Relief: Nourishing Your Body”

PCOS stands for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. It is a hormonal disorder that is caused by hormonal imbalances. PCOS can be reversed naturally by making the right changes in our lifestyle which includes eating habits and exercise. But before going into this topic let’s understand what PCOS is in simple terms.

What is PCOS?

Let’s understand the term by breaking it into parts,

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is short for;

Poly – Many

Cystic – A Sac like structure with fluid inside

Ovary – An Oval shaped gland on either side of the uterus

Syndrome –A Set of symptoms that occur together

The general perception of PCOS is that it is a complex issue and that is made even more complex by our use of medical terminology. But if presented in everyday terms, it is simple to understand.

The ovary is one of the woman’s reproductive organs. Millions of eggs are present in the ovary, and since the ovary produces eggs throughout a woman’s lifetime, she will never run out of eggs.

These immature eggs are kept in follicles. Every month, one free egg is released into the fallopian tube; if this egg fertilizes, you are pregnant; if it does not, menstruation should result.

In women with PCOS, however, this does not occur; the egg will not get fertilized and the immature egg will not mature. So the egg will instead remain as a cyst on the ovary. This condition is called PCOS.

All of the aforementioned events take place inside a woman’s body, but how can you be aware that you have this condition? There are few symptoms for PCOS, if you experience any of the ones listed below then there are chances that you may have PCOS. However, this should be confirmed by further analysis of the situation. Now let’s see the PCOS symptoms.

Symptoms of PCOS:

How can one identify that they are having this condition by checking if they have any below symptoms?

Irregular menstrual cycles
Excessive hair growth
Acne
Weight gain
Fatigue and mood changes

So now we understood how to identify if one has this condition. Now let’s understand the primary cause i.e., hormonal imbalances. To understand this we need the answer to the below two questions.

What is the hormonal imbalance?

Hormonal imbalance is nothing but a situation where you have one or more of any of the hormones causing various physical and emotional symptoms.

How do we know that we have hormonal imbalances?

If we encounter any of the following signs, we can be certain that we have hormonal imbalances:

Acne
Facial hair
Hair loss
Skin tags
Weight gain
Irregular periods
Fatigue
Mood swings

Now let’s discuss managing PCOS symptoms with diet.

Best Diet for managing PCOS symptoms:

The best eating habits include knowing when and how much to eat in addition to what to eat and what not to eat. Our eating habits should focus on maintaining stable blood sugar levels and promoting hormone balance.

What to eat?

There are many types to classify foods like low fiber, low fat, high sodium, gluten-free, vegetarian, and non-vegetarian. But to reverse PCOS we should start eating living food and avoid dead food.

Before knowing what is living food let’s understand what is dead food. Dead food is food that can sit on the counter for days or weeks and doesn’t turn bad. BasicaTheseackaged foods that are refined and highly processed and have no nutritional value. These contain chemicals, colors, and preservatives to increase their shelf life.

Now that we understood what is dead food, let’s go to the “living food”. Living food is the one that is close to its original natural form like vegetables, fruits, nuts & seeds, and whole grains. These foods are rich in nutrients and inflammatory-fighting antioxidants.

Now let’s go by each type of food that one can consume to fight PCOS.

Vegetables higher in fiber: Broccoli, Sprouts, Carrots, Spinach, Sweet potatoes, Peas, Cauliflower, Cabbage, Green peppers, and Green beans.
Fruits that are richer in fiber: Papaya, Guava, Oranges, Apples, Kiwi, and Avocado.

Tomatoes & Garlic: They contain a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity.
Cucumbers: These are low in calories and help in hydrating the body.
Antioxidants: Blueberries, Blackberries, Strawberries, Raspberries, Grapes, Cranberries, and Cherries.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, flax seeds, and pumpkin seeds. These are fiber-rich foods and hence provide healthy fats and proteins.

Other than this try to substitute processed foods with unprocessed ones and try using whole grains. Also by opting for local and seasonal choices, we honor nature’s wisdom for hormonal balance.

What to avoid?

Fried foods: French fries, potato chips, corn chips, and fried chicken or fish should be avoided as they increase inflammation.
Processed snacks: Cakes, cookies, candy, etc might seem tempting to eat but contains high sugar levels so they should be avoided.
Sweetened beverages: Soft drinks, coffee or tea, sodas, and energy drinks are high in calories so avoiding them will help to maintain a healthy diet.
Refined carbohydrates: Processed and refined carbohydrates like white bread, pasta, and pastries increase blood sugar levels contributing to insulin resistance.
Meat, Milk & Milk based food: The chemicals and steroids injected to have better production through the food reaches our system creating havoc in the hormonal imbalance.
High Glycemic Index foods: Carbohydrate foods that are broken down quickly and cause a rapid increase in blood glucose are those with high GI. These foods include white rice, potatoes, and certain cereals. Minimise and only part of the afternoon lunch meal.

When to eat?

Breakfast: Breakfast post your morning exercise routine, and keep it light with water-rich fruits or vegetable juices.
Lunch: Lunch around noon to 1 pm, a balanced home-cooked meal. Include carbohydrates, proteins, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Dinner: A easy & light meal, not later than 8 pm.
Snacks: Water-rich fruits are a good option.
Consistent meal timings: Following consistent meal timings each day helps to regulate your body’s internal clock and improve insulin sensitivity. Irregular eating patterns result in hormonal imbalances and the development of PCOS symptoms. Try to adopt a consistent daily eating window of 12 hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Avoid late-night eating: This should be avoided because our biological clocks are linked to the environment we live in. Hence our body is best at digesting when we are active and when sunlight is present. So eating or drinking late at night when our body expects us to rest and when it’s dark will disrupt the system and compromise the metabolism. Late-night snacking may worsen PCOS symptoms by interfering with sleep cycles and negatively affecting hormone control.

How much to eat?

Eat Aware: Pay attention to your body’s hunger and fullness signs
Listen to your body: Observe how your body reacts to various foods and to any food at various times of the day. Individualize your diet based on how it makes you feel because everyone has a different body type.
Stay hydrated: Observe & listen to the body, and have a regular intake of water as required.

Along with the aforementioned eating patterns, people should also incorporate the below two things into their daily routines:

Physical health (Exercise):

The reason for gaining weight is not just eating more but also moving less. The only way for the food we eat to be digested is through physical activity, but nowadays, since most of our jobs only require our brainpower, we have begun to forget that we should occasionally take a walk.

Sitting still for long pperiodsmay get the job done, but it can be physically damaging. Start living a more physically active life.

Mental health:

Mental health is as important as our physical health. Physical health can be maintained by moving our bodies more, whereas mental health can be maintained by stressing our brains less.

One of the causes of poor mental health is overthinking. Women are known to think significantly more than males, which contributes to their worse mental health than men.

But the symptoms of PCOS can also be impacted by poor mental health. So it’s crucial to control our stress levels and our thinking.

There’s a saying “Things out of our hands should be out of our brain” Adapting this kind of attitude helps to stay positive in addition avoids stress and overthinking. Also doing yoga and meditation calms our mind, so one can practice any of these to develop their mental health.

To sum up, adopting healthy eating habits and placing a priority on your physical and mental health can naturally reverse PCOS by regulating your hormones.

PCOS & Migraines-The Struggle of a Woman

Polycystic ovary syndrome is referred to as PCOS. Let’s start by dispelling the idea that PCOS is an illness. PCOS is a hormonal issue that can be treated properly and is not a disease.

A higher risk of migraines which are also known as head throbbing pains or severe headaches has been linked to PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) as hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and obesity may all play a role in its development.

According to a study done in Finland in 2022, those with PCOS had a significantly greater prevalence of migraines. 24.7% of those in the group without the condition reported having migraines, compared to 34.2% of those with PCOS.

Conditions that may relate to PCOS and migraine:

Migraines can also be brought on by some PCOS factors. Here are a few factors that may contribute to PCOS and migraines simultaneously.

Hormonal imbalances :

PCOS is caused by hormonal imbalances and also having PCOS results in hormonal fluctuations.

Estrogen is a hormone present in both male and female reproductive systems. Estrogen has three major forms such as,

Estrone
Etradiol
Estroil

Estradiol is the more potent form of estrogen whereas estrone and other forms are weaker.

Generally, estrogen levels are built up in the first half of the menstrual cycle and they began to drop after ovulation which occurs halfway through the cycle.

The drop in estrogen levels causes migraines. This is the reason why some females get severe headaches at specific times during their menstrual cycle.

With PCOS, this circumstance is different. Androgens, the male hormones, are also present in women. These hormones are typically higher in males but present in all individuals but with PCOS the levels of these hormones are elevated in the women with this condition.

Although our body can convert androgens into estrogen PCOS can cause a cycle of hormone dis-regulation that reduces this process. Specifically, it results in converting androgen into estrone instead of estradiol.

This results in a drop in estradiol level which is a more potent form of estrogen as mentioned above. This drop in estradiol level (hormonal imbalance) due to PCOS may affect migraine development or symptoms.

Sleep apnea :

A person with sleep apnea, often known as a sleep disorder, may have breathing pauses while they sleep, difficulty falling asleep, drowsiness during the day, or loud snoring.

Alterations in hormones like estrogen and androgen in PCOS could potentially contribute to obstructive sleep apnea which is one type of sleep apnea.

Migraines or tension headaches are brought on by sleep apnea. Therefore, migraine risk is increased in women who have PCOS and sleep apnea.

Anxiety:

PCOS may cause anxiety due to its effect on the hormones. One of the many effects of hormonal imbalances is depression or anxiety.

For eg; Progesterone is a calming hormone which has many benefits like lowering anxiety and prompting healthy sleep.

However many women with PCOS have a deficiency in progesterone due to a lack of ovulation. Further panic attacks and feelings of anxiety can result in migraines.

Insulin resistance:

Insulin is a hormone which is responsible for converting the glucose in your body into energy and delivering it to your cells. However, when insulin is resistant, your body stores more fat and has a slower metabolism, which leads to weight gain.

As a result of insulin resistance, the body may produce more free fatty acids and blood lipids which may result in a migraine attack.

Furthermore, PCOS is also brought on by insulin resistance. As was already noted, insulin resistance results in excess weight and obesity-related insulin resistance changes the function of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland in the brain, boosting the production of androgenic hormones that help people develop this condition.

Lifestyle and Environmental Factors :

Eating habits, stress, exercise and sleep are examples of lifestyle variables that might affect both PCOS and migraines. These habits may also be influenced by environmental factors, such as exposure to specific chemicals.

Neurological Involvement :

The migraine headache disorder is related to the nervous system, although PCOS also appears to involve the nervous system. Both conditions are accompanied by altered brain signaling and neurotransmitter imbalances.

Inflammation:

The body’s immunological response to an injury or infection is inflammation. It involves chemical releases that expand blood arteries, increasing blood flow and causing white blood cells to migrate to the affected locations.

In conditions like PCOS chronic low-grade inflammation leads to hormonal imbalances, increases nervous system sensitivity and promotes insulin resistance all contributing to severe head throbbing pains.

Treatment of PCOS with hormonal birth control pills:

Nowadays everyone prefers medication to treat PCOS as it is efficient. Medication just addresses the symptoms and not the underlying causes of the problem, thus it only provides short-term relief.

Further, all types of birth control pills have side effects. The most common side effects are;

Nausea
Headaches
Breast tenderness
Possible weight gain or loss
A mild rise in blood pressure
Mood changes
Irregular bleeding
Blood clots
Vaginal discharge changes

Apart from the above-mentioned side effects, it may also cause head throbbing pain in specific individuals. Here are a few points explaining how birth control pills taken for treating the above condition can cause migraine;

Hormonal changes :

In birth control pills, synthetic hormones (estrogen and progestin) are used to regulate the menstrual cycle. Individuals who are susceptible to these head throbbing pains may experience fluctuations in estrogen levels due to these hormones.

Serotonin levels :

Serotonin levels in the brain can be affected by birth control pills. Serotonin regulates mood and pain perception critically, and in certain people, its modification can result in migraines.

Personal susceptibility:

People who take birth control pills do not always develop severe headaches because everyone has different migraine triggers. People who have experienced migraines personally, particularly those with hormonal factors, may be more vulnerable to headaches when taking medication.

Dosage and formulation :

A migraine’s likelihood can also be influenced by the type and dosage of birth control pills. Migraine symptoms may vary depending on whether the pill contains a high level of estrogen or a certain type of progestin.

PCOS treatment through natural means

PCOS can be treated naturally instead of medication. Yes, you heard it right. PCOS is caused by hormonal imbalances and if we can balance the hormones naturally then PCOS can be reversed. Epigenetics helps us understand better. Think of genes as a gun and trigger lifestyle and environmental factors. The gun symbolizes our genetic potential, while the trigger represents signals from our choices and environment that influence gene expression. By regulating our lifestyle and environment, we can positively impact gene expression and address the root causes of PCOS. Treating PCOS can obviously treat migraines caused by PCOS.

So let’s discuss how PCOS can be treated naturally through 5 pillars of a holistic lifestyle:

Eat right :

Be careful about when and what you eat. Embrace living, water-rich, whole, plant-based foods that nurture our genetic potential. By opting for local and seasonal choices, we honor nature’s wisdom. Increase consumption of this type of food can improve insulin sensitivity and digestion.

Avoiding specific foods including fried and processed foods, refined carbohydrates, drinks, alcohol, and caffeine aids in managing PCOS. Eliminating packaged and processed foods liberates us from epigenetic imprints, elevating our hormonal health.

Your body is best at digesting when you are active and when there is sunlight. Thus eating or drinking when your body wants you to sleep and when it’s dark disrupts the system and compromises the metabolism. So it’s important to stop midnight snacking. Adapt to a consistent daily eating window of only 12 hours say 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Move more :

Moving more helps the body to regulate hormones, reduce weight and also improve insulin sensitivity. Staying active transcends mere exercise, embracing constant movement throughout the day optimizes epigenetic expression, igniting hormonal balance. Engage in pleasurable exercise, dance, yoga, etc to unlock the power of epigenetic triggers. Maintaining a healthy weight through physical activity can help to manage PCOS symptoms thereby reversing it.

Breath aware :

Breath awareness is nothing but noticing each breath we take, it immediately calms our stress and promotes relaxation. As we get a deeper comprehension of Pranayama, the science of breath, we open a significant doorway to support glandular function and balance hormones. Utilizing the epigenetic impact of the breath, we transcend the usual and improve our hormonal well-being.

Sleep better :

Sleeping better is very important for balancing hormones. The ability of the body to control hormone levels and encourage healthy menstruation is improved by getting enough sleep.

Lack of sleep, or more specifically, poor quality sleep, can worsen insulin resistance, which in turn can cause PCOS symptoms to emerge.

Discover the benefits of deep sleep, a powerful technique for healing and rejuvenation. We embrace epigenetic potential through the practice of YogNidra, uncovering hormonal balance in the dream world. Through this beautiful dance with the epigenetic clock, rejuvenate your entire existence. So prioritizing quality sleep helps in managing PCOS.

Mind free :

Being mind free actually helps in reducing stress. Journey into the realm of emotions, thoughts, and stress resilience, where journaling, gratitude, and emotional practices become our guiding compass.

By embracing epigenetic intelligence, we transform our stress-to-calm narrative, strengthening our hormonal landscape.

Following these 5 integrated natural ways to treat PCOS has zero side effects and also contributes to a healthy lifestyle. Further, treating PCOS symptoms can reduce migraines resulting from it.

To conclude, we have learned that the association between PCOS and migraines is not a myth; rather, it is based on all of the PCOS-related characteristics listed above.

We discussed how Migraines are caused by PCOS and the common factors that contribute to both migraines and PCOS.

We then discussed how PCOS can be managed naturally without negative effects in contrast to using medications that have side effects and how treating PCOS can automatically reduce migraines caused by them.

Author: Srilekha potula

How periods are related to pregnancy?

Impact of PCOS on woman trying to get Pregnant :

Irregular or missed periods :

Anovulation:

Insulin resistance:

Increased levels of male hormones:

Ovarian Cysts:

Obesity:

Risk of infertility:

Difficulty in identifying pregnancy:

Psychological Issues: