We all know that irregular periods or no periods and weight gain are common symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), but not many people know that there are four types of PCOS with different causes and treatment options.
Nearly one in every ten teenage girls and women would be diagnosed with PCOS, and more than half of those wouldn’t know they have it.
This blog will cover what PCOS is, its type, its symptoms, and how to deal with it. Let’s get started!
A] What is PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age. It happens when the ovaries produce more male androgen hormones than necessary. This imbalance can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, acne, excessive hair growth on the face and body, and weight gain.
One of the primary causes of PCOS is insulin resistance, which means the body does not respond well to insulin, causing higher insulin levels. Women with PCOS are at a higher risk for developing type-2 diabetes due to insulin resistance. They are also more likely to experience high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease. PCOS can complicate fertility, but many women with the condition can still become pregnant with appropriate treatment and support. Women with PCOS need to work with their gynecologist to monitor their health and address any concerns.
Learn about the four types of PCOS and their symptoms.
B] Four Types of PCOS
There are four types of PCOS. Each type has unique characteristics and requires specific approaches for management. Understanding these different types can help answer the question, “What type of PCOS do I have?”
1. Insulin Resistant PCOS
This is the most common type, affecting around 70% of women with PCOS. It’s linked to how your body uses insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar. When your body becomes resistant to insulin, it can cause excess insulin production. This affects ovulation and can trigger the ovaries to produce more androgens (male hormones). Women with insulin resistance might also be more prone to developing a hormonal PCOS belly shape, causing weight gain around the stomach area.
2. Post-Pill PCOS
Some women experience PCOS-like symptoms after stopping birth control pills. Birth control pills reduce the body’s natural hormone production, and when they are discontinued, there can be a temporary rise in androgen production. Symptoms like irregular periods and acne might appear, but they only last for some time. This type of PCOS is usually temporary, and the body returns to normal hormone production. Still, if the symptoms continue for longer, you should visit your gynaecologist and get a regular check-up to rule out other possibilities.
3. Adrenal PCOS
Adrenal PCOS is a less common form of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome that causes abnormal stress hormones. Unlike other types of PCOS, which are often linked to insulin resistance or hormonal imbalances, adrenal PCOS is caused by the adrenal glands. These glands produce excess androgens in response to stress. Women with adrenal PCOS might not have the typical symptoms of PCOS, like insulin resistance but will have elevated levels of DHEA-S, a specific androgen produced by the adrenal glands. In case you don’t have insulin-resistant or post-pill PCOS, you need to meet an endocrinologist or other specialist to get tested for adrenal PCOS.
4. Inflammatory PCOS
Inflammatory PCOS is linked to chronic inflammation in the body. Inflammation can stimulate the ovaries to produce excess androgens, disrupting the hormonal balance. Women with inflammatory PCOS may experience symptoms like fatigue, skin issues (such as eczema or psoriasis), and joint pain.
C] Symptoms for PCOS
1. Irregular Menstrual Bleeding
One of the most common symptoms of PCOS is irregular menstrual bleeding. Women with PCOS often experience irregular or longer menstrual cycles. At the same time, some women might have less than eight periods a year. This irregularity is due to the lack of ovulation, which prevents the shedding of the uterine lining. Sometimes, people might confuse PCOS with fibroids due to irregular bleeding. However, fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterus and can cause irregular bleeding, but they are usually heavier than periods in PCOS.
2. Difficulty In Conceiving
Women with PCOS have difficulty in conceiving. Since PCOS often results in irregular ovulation or lack of ovulation, it can be challenging to predict the fertile window, making conception difficult. If you are facing issues with conceiving, you should reach out to a gynecologist. They will help you create a treatment plan that might help you get pregnant.
If you are looking for a gynecologist in London, your search has ended. At Womens Healthcare, we offer guidance and potential treatments to help manage PCOS and improve your fertility.
3. Obesity
Obesity and weight gain, particularly around the abdomen, are common symptoms of PCOS. This weight gain is often referred to as the PCOS belly shape or hormonal PCOS belly shape. Women with PCOS tend to accumulate fat around their midsection due to insulin resistance. Managing weight through diet and exercise is important for women with PCOS, as it can help improve overall health.
4. Skin and Hair Issues
PCOS can also affect the skin and hair. Women with PCOS may experience acne, oily skin, and excessive hair growth on the face and body due to higher levels of androgens. This acne can be painful and cystic, potentially leaving marks on your face. Similarly, some women might suffer from hair thinning or male pattern hair loss.
D] How to Deal with PCOS
1. Diet
To deal with PCOS, the first step you need to take is to change your diet. You should reduce your carbohydrate intake and increase your protein. Protein keeps you full for a longer time, which will help you avoid snacking often. Aim to include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your meals. Fibre-rich foods like beans, lentils, and leafy greens help regulate insulin levels. Limiting sugary foods and refined carbs is also important, as they can cause blood sugar spikes and worsen insulin resistance. You can even follow a PCOS-friendly diet plan.
2. Reduce Alcohol
Limiting alcohol intake is beneficial for managing PCOS. Alcohol can disrupt blood sugar levels and hormone balance, making it harder to manage your symptoms. It can also interfere with sleep and contribute to weight gain. Reducing alcohol consumption can help improve your overall health and make it easier to manage PCOS. Opt for non-alcoholic beverages, herbal teas, or water with a splash of lemon when socialising or dining out.
3. Exercise Regularly
Regular physical activity is essential for managing PCOS. Exercise helps reduce insulin resistance, promote weight loss, and improve mood. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. This can include activities like walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling. Strength training exercises, such as lifting weights or doing bodyweight exercises like squats and push-ups, can also be very beneficial. Regular exercise helps with weight management and improves overall metabolic health.
4. Get Enough Sleep
Getting enough sleep is important for managing PCOS. Poor sleep can disrupt your hormones and increase stress levels, making it harder to manage PCOS symptoms. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a regular sleep routine by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, even on weekends. Create a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading a book or taking a warm bath, to signal your body that it’s time to wind down. Avoid screens and caffeine close to bedtime to help improve sleep quality.
5. Manage Stress
Stress management is an often overlooked but important part of managing PCOS. Stress can elevate cortisol levels, which can interfere with hormone balance. Incorporate stress-reducing activities into your daily routine, such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or spending time in nature. Finding healthy ways to cope with stress can improve your overall well-being and help you manage PCOS more effectively.
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Conclusion
PCOS can be difficult to navigate alone. It is a complex hormonal disorder which might need constant monitoring. It is important to know which type of PCOS you have and the symptoms to treat PCOS. By implementing the changes discussed above, you can reverse your PCOS. To create a treatment, reach out to Women’s Healthcare. Our experts curate a plan that suits your lifestyle without changing it much yet helping you manage your PCOS. Contact us and book your appointment.
Neha Goel
Neha Goel, a Psychology alumna and MBA graduate from CASS Business School, London, brings together her expertise as a Reiki Practitioner and Practice Manager. She integrates psychology and business strategies to foster holistic well-being and personal development.