Standing for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, PCOS is a condition where women have very long, unusual or only a few period cycles. The cause of PCOS is still not fully understood by doctors, however, there are ways an individual can manage symptoms with proper self-care rituals.
Battling PCOS can be very mentally and emotionally challenging, which is why cultivating a strong support system, whether it’s through friends, family or support groups, can be immensely beneficial. Having people who understand what you’re going through and having encouragement on your side can make a significant difference in managing the condition alongside effective self-care.
So, what exactly is PCOS self-care? Ahead, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the condition and how it’s managed.
What Is PCOS, And What Are The Symptoms?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder that affects many aspects of a person’s health, including fertility, weight management and emotional well-being. Black women are numerically underrepresented in PCOS-centric studies, despite that 3.5% of them (from an unspecified pool) are diagnosed with it, showing that it disproportionately affects them. Symptoms of PCOS include the following:
Irregular Menstrual Cycles
Women with PCOS often experience irregular or very few menstrual periods, which can make it difficult to predict ovulation and conceive. Even with a period calculator, PCOS makes tracking your period very difficult as it can be fairly unexpected and unusual.
Excess Androgen Hormones
Elevated levels of androgens, such as testosterone, can lead to physical symptoms like acne and excess facial and body hair (hirsutism). It can also have somewhat of an opposite effect, leading to your hair thinning or falling out. While that’s a normal part of aging and can be caused by dozens of factors ranging from stress to other sicknesses, hair loss or excess hair growth (especially in places like your chin or arms) can be a symptom of PCOS.
Polycystic Ovaries
On ultrasound imaging, the ovaries of individuals with PCOS may appear enlarged and contain numerous small follicles (tiny fluid-filled sacs). These follicles may irregularly release eggs, leading to fertility issues.
PCOS is not just limited to these three primary features, which is why it’s such a complex condition with a wide range of potential symptoms and health risks. Weight gain or difficulty losing weight, insulin resistance (which can lead to Type 2 diabetes), mood disorders and skin issues are also common symptoms of PCOS.
How Is PCOS Managed And Treated?
Self-care is a crucial component of managing PCOS effectively. And though there isn’t a set cure for PCOS, it’s important to acknowledge that individuals have the power to lessen and manage symptoms.
Balanced and Nutritious Diet
First and foremost, the most important part of PCOS self-care is maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet. This often includes focusing on whole foods, complex carbohydrates, lean proteins and healthy fats, while limiting processed foods and added sugars. In addition, regular exercise is also essential, as it can help with weight management, improve insulin sensitivity and reduce stress, which often triggers PCOS symptoms.
Monitoring and Tracking Your Menstrual Cycles
Although menstrual cycles with PCOS can be tricky to predict sometimes, monitoring and tracking your symptoms and menstrual cycles can provide valuable insights into the condition, helping you and your healthcare provider make informed decisions about treatment options. Additionally, staying informed about PCOS through reliable sources and support groups can empower you to advocate for your health and make informed choices.
Birth Control or Insulin Medications
Self-care for PCOS also involves regular check-ups with a healthcare provider who specializes in the condition. Medications such as birth control pills or insulin-sensitizing drugs may be prescribed to manage specific symptoms. These medications should be taken as directed and monitored for effectiveness and side effects.
Stress Management
Believe it or not, stress management is one of the leading causes for PCOS symptoms to be triggered, which is why managing one’s stress is a critical aspect of self-care for PCOS. High levels of stress can exacerbate hormonal imbalances and symptoms. Incorporating relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises or yoga into your daily routine can be immensely beneficial. Adequate sleep is equally vital, as it supports hormone regulation and overall well-being.
PCOS Self-Care
Part of managing PCOS is self-care. This includes in the traditional ways self-care manifests, such as taking time for yourself, treating yourself to baths and other small luxuries. However, PCOS self-care also extends to eating foods that are good for your PCOS symptoms. These foods include things like better fats, swapping olive oil for butter or margarine, or keeping your diet rich in Omega-3s. Stock up on fiber in your diet, and as always, stay hydrated.
Remind yourself that this is a normal condition, and don’t let stigma against it or the ways that any of the symptoms manifest bring down your mental wellbeing.
PCOS and You
As previously mentioned, the exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors that trigger the condition. For those with PCOS, diagnosis is typically made through a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests to measure hormone levels and ultrasound imaging of the ovaries.
Moreover, managing PCOS often involves lifestyle changes like a healthy diet, regular exercise and weight management to improve insulin sensitivity. Doctors can prescribe medication for specific symptoms like regulating menstrual cycles or improving fertility. And though treatment is highly individualized, a healthcare provider can work with those affected by PCOS to create a tailored treatment plan that’s long-lasting.
Even though PCOS is a lifelong condition, proper management and self-care rituals can help symptoms by a landslide, allowing many people with PCOS to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.