By- Huma Liaq

PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) is a severe hormonal disorder encountered in the female population. PCOS is most common among women of reproductive age (15-49 years) worldwide. Spreading awareness about it, is necessary, as many women have PCOS but unaware of it.

Let’s understand it:

What is PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome)?

PCOS is a condition in which the ovaries produce an abnormal amount of male hormones( androgens), that are usually present in women in small amounts and have many small cysts on the ovaries.

Hormonal imbalances that could be the root cause of PCOS:

High level of insulin
High level of Testosterone
High level of DHEA and DHT
High or Low level of Oestrogen
Low level of Progesterone
High level of Cortisol
High level of FSH and LH
Low level of Thyroid

Symptoms of PCOS:

Skin Pigmentation disorder: Skin becomes dark in folds of the neck, armpits, and under the
Sugar Cravings
Acne and Oily skin
Hairfall or thinning of Hair
Sleep issues
Mood swings, depression, or anxiety
Irregular periods
Weight gain or Obesity
Excess hair growth on face, chest, stomach, and thighs.
Infertility
Pelvic pain

All PCOS symptoms are reversible, don’t lose hope. You just need to modify your lifestyle and you will be back to your healthy days. Yes, you read that right. Focus on your self-management.

What you can do:

Maintain healthy weight
Balanced diet plan
Exercise daily
Practice meditation
Establish good sleep hygiene
Reduce stress and stay positive
Talk to your doctor
Take Birth control pill

Since PCOS has no permanent cure but ladies you can combat PCOS by adopting a healthy lifestyle. I know PCOS is hard on girls’ self-esteem but I would suggest you never lose confidence and try to cope up with it. It is in your hands to reduce these symptoms and improving quality of life by adopting a healthful diet, becoming more physically active, and boosting up your happy hormones.

Be gentle with yourself, Ladies!