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PCOS- polycystic ovarian syndrome or diabetes of the ovaries?

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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition diagnosed in approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, yet it's often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or under-treated. The name "PCOS" itself is misleading, as many women with the condition don't actually have ovarian cysts. Instead, PCOS is a complex endocrine disorder, sometimes called the "Type 3 Diabetes of the Ovaries" due to its connection with insulin resistance and metabolic issues.


What Is PCOS?

At its core, PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that affects how a woman's ovaries function. The key markers of PCOS include having 2 of the 3:

  1. Irregular periods or no periods at all, due to a lack of regular ovulation.

  2. Androgen excess, related to insulin resistance causing decreased SHBG, which can lead to symptoms like acne, unwanted facial or body hair (hirsutism), and thinning scalp hair.

  3. Polycystic ovaries, where ovaries become enlarged and contain many fluid-filled sacs (follicles) that surround the eggs. This doesn’t mean the ovaries are cystic, which is where the condition’s name can cause confusion.

However, PCOS goes far beyond reproductive health. Women with PCOS are at higher risk of developing serious health issues like insulin resistance, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. That’s why some experts call it "Type 3 Diabetes" — because the insulin dysregulation plays such a huge role in the disorder.


Why the Name Is Misleading

The term "polycystic" refers to the multiple tiny cyst-like follicles that may develop on the ovaries, but not all women with PCOS have these. In fact, some women with PCOS have normal-looking ovaries on an ultrasound. The condition is more about the underlying hormonal imbalance — including excess androgens (male hormones) and insulin resistance — than about cysts themselves.

This misunderstanding can delay diagnosis and treatment. Many women with PCOS see multiple healthcare providers before getting answers, and because PCOS symptoms vary widely, it can be easily overlooked.


Symptoms of PCOS

PCOS symptoms can range from mild to severe and can affect various parts of your health and body, including:

  • Irregular or missed periods: Often the first sign, this happens because ovulation is either inconsistent or absent.

  • Excessive hair growth: Increased levels of free testosterone (androgens) cause hair growth on areas like the face, chest, lower abdomen, inner thighs, and back.

  • Acne and oily skin: Androgens can also cause skin problems, including acne often found on the chin.

  • Weight gain: Many women with PCOS experience difficulty losing weight or may gain weight easily, particularly around the abdomen. However, it is possible to have "lean" PCOS.

  • Thinning hair: The scalp may show signs of androgenic alopecia, leading to hair thinning or hair loss.

  • Infertility: Because PCOS affects ovulation, it’s one of the leading causes of infertility.

  • Fatigue and low energy: Insulin resistance can lead to fluctuating blood sugar levels, causing dips in energy.


Why It’s Important to Identify and Address PCOS Early

From a functional medicine standpoint, treating PCOS requires looking at the entire body, not just the ovaries. The metabolic, hormonal, and inflammatory issues that drive PCOS need to be addressed to prevent long-term health complications.

  • Insulin Resistance: This is often at the root of PCOS. When your cells become resistant to insulin, your body produces more of it, which increases androgen levels and worsens symptoms. A focus on improving insulin sensitivity through dietary changes, exercise, and sometimes medications or supplements can help manage PCOS.

  • Inflammation: Chronic inflammation plays a role in PCOS, contributing to insulin resistance and hormone imbalances. Reducing inflammation through lifestyle changes like a nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory diet and proper sleep is key.

  • Hormone Optimization: Balancing hormones like testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, and insulin can help mitigate the symptoms. This is where treatments like bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), thyroid optimization, and stress management come into play.


Why Early Identification Matters

Many women are unaware that they have PCOS until they start trying to conceive, but it’s important to diagnose and manage it early. Untreated PCOS can lead to long-term complications like Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and endometrial cancer. Even if you’re not trying to conceive, managing PCOS can improve your overall health, energy levels, mood, and quality of life.

At ANU Wellness, we take a holistic approach to PCOS by identifying its root causes and tailoring personalized treatment plans. By focusing on hormone balance, insulin sensitivity, nutrition, and lifestyle optimization.


Conclusion

PCOS is more than just a reproductive condition. It’s a systemic metabolic and hormonal disorder that requires comprehensive care. By addressing the root causes, you can effectively manage the symptoms and reduce the risk of long-term health complications.

At ANU Wellness, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

If you suspect you may have PCOS or are struggling with related symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s time to take charge of your health and feel empowered in your body.

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