Living with PCOS: How hormonal imbalances lead to acne, weight gain, and irregular periods

PCOS symptoms: While irregular periods and lack of ovulation are two common signs, acne, body hair growth, metabolic issues, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, body image issues and obesity, too, are symptoms to watch out for (Image: Canva)

PCOS or Polycystic ovary syndrome brings stubborn acne, unexpected weight gain, and more hair loss than usual. Your periods become irregular, hard to predict, and despite a healthy lifestyle, you often feel fatigued and sluggish. No matter how carefully you eat or exercise, your body feels heavier, and the tiredness that settles in your bones lingers all day.

A common hormonal condition, PCOS has become a global concern in the past decade, warns Dr Muskaan Chhabra, IVF Specialist, Birla Fertility and IVF. “The endocrine disorder that widely affects females belonging to reproductive age often leads to a range of symptoms, affecting the their quality of life,” she says.

While irregular periods and lack of ovulation are two common signs, acne, body hair growth, metabolic issues, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, body image issues and obesity, too, are symptoms to watch out for. “In the long run, it can also lead to sexual dysfunction, heart problems, and insulin resistance, making it necessary to embrace a diverse treatment approach to manage the condition. Considering the range of symptoms, living with PCOS can seem challenging. Nevertheless, they can be easily managed by embracing a healthier lifestyle, allowing women to lives their life to the fullest,” says Dr Chhabra.

Also read | Struggling with PCOS? Here's what you should eat and avoid in your diet

She suggests the following lifestyle changes to manage PCOS symptoms: 

• Eating right: Keeping a close tab on diet is the first thing recommended to those diagnosed with PCOS. Limiting refined carbohydrates and sugary foods while adding more healthy fats, lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables can be quite helpful during this time.

• Balancing blood sugar: Unmanaged blood sugar levels for an extended period can increase the risk of cardiovascular disorders and damage the nervous system. Women diagnosed with PCOS should avoid fasting, cutting back on calories, or consuming sugary items to prevent further complications.

• Manage weight: Weight gain is one of the symptoms of PCOS, and living a sedentary lifestyle can make maintaining a healthy weight difficult. It is crucial to include some form of physical activity in your daily schedule to stay fit.

• Avoid smoking and drinking: Both smoking and alcohol intake are associated with an increased risk of metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance. Drinking and smoking while receiving treatment for PCOS can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.

Understand your condition:

PCOS treatment is different for different people. A one-size-fits-all approach does not work. It is better to consult your doctor regularly to understand your personal condition for effective results.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.