Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder in which the ovaries start producing extra androgen (male hormone). Due to this hormonal imbalance, a woman may face many problems, including irregular periods, cysts in the ovaries, etc. About 15% of women suffer from PCOS in reproductive age. This problem can occur anytime after crossing puberty. It is mostly diagnosed at the age of 20 to 30.

In such a situation, to stop this problem at the right time, its symptoms, causes and prevention methods should be known. Let's know all the important things related to this-

Common symptoms of PCOS-

• Irregular or heavy periods
• Missed periods
• Extra hair growth on the face, chest, and abdomen
• Increased acne and oily skin
• weight gain and difficulty losing it
• Thinning of hair
• Hair loss
• Dark patches on the skin, especially on the neck and armpits

Causes of PCOS-

• Hormonal imbalance- Extra androgen hormones affect the process of ovulation.
• Insulin resistance – High insulin levels increase the amount of androgen hormones, which cause PCOS.
• Genetic- Family history also increases the risk of getting PCOS.
• Inflammation- Hormonal imbalance is also possible due to low grade inflammation.

Risk Factors for PCOS

• Insulin resistance increases the risk of diabetes.
• The risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke also increases.
• Irregular periods also increase the risk of endometrial cancer.
• The risk of having sleep apnea increases.
• Hormonal imbalances and fertility challenges increase the risk of depression and anxiety .
• Possibility of fertility challenges and risky pregnancy due to irregular ovulation
• Obesity increases the risk of many other diseases
• Risk of hypertension

Manage PCOS with these methods-

• Instead of focusing on calories, focus on food quality.
• Eat unprocessed whole grains that aren't from a packet, box, or can.
• Make sure to include protein in every meal.
• Stay away from sugar, drinks and juices.
• Consume healthy fats like ghee, olive oil, nuts, seeds and fatty fish.
• Get some sunlight in the morning and take a walk.
• Avoid excessive consumption of caffeine.
• Focus on strength training and do high-intensity workouts.
• Be sure to take a walk after eating.
• If you feel any symptoms are severe, do not hesitate to consult a doctor.