So, what is it exactly? Polycystic literally means 'many cysts' and the sufferers have numerous 'cysts' on the outside of their ovaries. However, in many instances these are unreleased eggs rather than cysts. It is believed that the ovaries cannot produce the correct amount of hormone including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) that would normally triggers the release of mature eggs. The overall hormonal imbalance results in raised levels of insulin, testosterone and Luteinising Hormone (LH) as well as the lowering of FSH. The symptoms of PCOS include irregular periods, excess body hair, acne, infertility, weight gain and depression. In the long term, without treatment, there is an increased risk of diabetes and heart disease.
PCOS is often diagnosed following period problems during puberty, but it can also emerge later in life. Some sufferers do not display all the symptoms. If you have any suspicions that you might suffer from PCOS, you should visit your doctor who will refer you for an ultrasound scan and take a blood test. You may need to be patient, as it can take a little while for some people to get a definitive diagnosis. If you feel you are not being taken seriously, be persistent.
If you are diagnosed with PCOS, do not lose heart. Treatment is widely available and can be highly successful. Fertility treatment may be required, but again try not to be too pessimistic as many sufferers a able to have a family with the right treatment.
If you are interested in a natural approach in addition to conventional medicine, one good book to try is "PCOS - A woman's guide to dealing with PCOS" by Colette Harris. She recommends making sure you eat a good well balanced diet including the following daily:
- 4 portions of wholegrain like brown rice;
- 5 portions of vegetables;
- 3 portions of fruit;
- 2-5 portions of protein including vegetable sources such as beans, lentils and tofu;
- 1 tablespoon of essential fats like cold pressed flaxseed oil;
- 2-3 litres of pure water.
To reduce digestive toxins, eat organic where possible or wash food in organic cider vinegar and peel vegetables. Try to lower stress levels where possible. Exercise can be beneficial both for lowering stress and losing body fat. Taking Chromium (with your doctors permission) can help to regulate blood sugar levels, and you can find chromium in the Weight Loss Shop.
For further advice on PCOS, you can contact the PCO Self Help Group Verity at 52-54 Featherstone Street, London EC1Y 8RT or visit Verity-pcos.org.uk
For further advice on losing the increased weight caused by PCOS, join us at FeelingOK.co.uk
