First of all, what is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) ?
Polycystic ovarian syndrome or PCOS, is a condition in which a woman’s body secretes extra male hormones, called androgens. As a result, the excess in androgens can cause her ovaries to produce too many egg follicles each month, “polycystic ovaries” responsible for the name of the condition. Excess androgens are also responsible for many of the other symptoms which will be discussed below.
For instance; in a normal menstrual cycle, hormonal changes result in the maturation and release of an egg during each cycle. Due to the excess androgens, the follicles in a woman’s ovary don’t mature fully and are not released, leading to the development of small ovarian cysts which can be seen on ultrasound. Since ovulation often fails to occur, the shedding of the uterine lining (the menstrual period) often fails to occur as well. This is when common symptoms of irregular periods, and often infertility occur.
What are the symptoms of PCOS?
Women with PCOS tend to have symptoms related to the elevated androgen levels and also the effects these hormones have on the body or various organs.
Common symptoms include:
* Irregular periods (oligomenorrhea) or absent periods (amenorrhea)
* Acne
* Oily hair and skin
* Abnormal hair growth (hirsutism)
* Recurrent miscarriages
* Pregnancy induced hypertension
* Higher risk of preterm birth, adverse health outcomes for the babies
* Postnatal hospitalization
* Obesity
* Insulin resistance, with an increased risk of developing diabetes
* High blood pressure
* High cholesterol
* Anxiety
* Irritability and mood swings
* Depression
With all these listed, many women may have only a few of these symptoms, which can create difficulties in making the diagnosis.
The diagnosis response:
A friend, family member or partner may be frustrated if she’s only recently been diagnosed with PCOS, and you may be wondering how this could happen. But, when you start adding 1+1 , you understand all the conditions she may be scared of having in the long run. You quickly realize how the news can affect someone.
Self-esteem:
Though not fatal or deadly, having polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is still difficult for many women who suffer from it. Based on the signs and symptoms like acne, weight gain, hair loss and infertility, there could be a million thoughts going through someone’s mind on how she’s not good,beautiful enough or how she would never be a mother.
For that, you have to work on the mental part during this journey. I am not saying that it would be easy, but doing the things that bring you joy and make you feel better physically and mentally will greatly help in the long run.
Some of the things you can do physically.
Exercise: jogging, cycling or swimming. They are all great activities that can help you with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) because these types of exercise increase body sensitivity to insulin which reduces the risk of type 2 diabetescardiovascular disease.
Mentally:
Empowerment: By educating others, you are breaking the stigma. You are helping someone to talk more about it. You are empowering someone to be more than a diagnosis. And there is so much joy in helping others.
There could be a financial burden:
Whenever you are diagnosed with a new disease, it is recommended to get as much information as possible. Your doctor is an important source of knowledge and treatment options if you have PCOS. Sometimes, some women may fail to see a doctor to get a second opinion because they don’t have any resources. Therefore, if you know any resources or programs for women, it will be greatly generous of you to refer a friend or family member to that particular program. Not having financial stabilities or health insurance can be such a burden to some women and can cause an increase in depression and anxiety as well.
Long term Management:
While it can be scary to hear that your friend, partner has the medical condition of (pcos), please know that she can live a full, healthy and happy life, if it is well managed. Most importantly, if she has the mental support. Soooo, talk it out, give as much support and bring as much awereness.
Spirituality:
Sometimes, we try everything else, but prayers. I want you to remember that God gives us the power to overcome even the most daunting circumstances. You are more than a diagnosis and PCOS doesn’t define you. Isaiah 40:28, 31 ” Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. You will find the strength, you did not know you possessed. Chin up 💛.
Take away from this post.
What are your approach on PCOS? Did you know anything about it? Have you noticed a change in a friend or family member suffering from PCOS? If yes, how does it affect your relationship? If you just learned about PCOS, will you bring more awareness by educating others? (People can be harsh sometimes).
P.S Anyone that is going through something needs a friend or family member to talk to. So, pray for them, talk to them and educate them.
Until next time darlings…
