Happy PCOS Awareness Month!
Every September, PCOS Awareness Month provides an important opportunity to shed light on a condition that affects millions of women and girls worldwide: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, commonly known as PCOS. About 116 million women and girls live with PCOS at the moment, causing them significant health concerns. Read here to learn more about PCOS and how it affects the lives of women and girls!
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects individuals with ovaries, often beginning during adolescence. PCOS occurs when there is an imbalance in sex hormones, particularly an excess of androgens, which can lead to various physical and emotional symptoms. Some of those symptoms can include:
Irregular Menstrual Cycles: One of the hallmark signs of PCOS is irregular periods, which can make it challenging to predict when periods will arrive. This irregularity can disrupt daily activities and cause anxiety, and makes it difficult to predict pregnancy risk and hormonal changes.
Ovulation Issues: PCOS can interfere with the normal release of eggs from the ovaries, making it difficult to conceive. Many women with PCOS struggle with fertility and may require medical assistance.
Excessive Hair Growth: Increased androgen levels can lead to hirsutism, causing unwanted hair growth on the face, chest, back, and other areas. This symptom can impact self-esteem and body image.
Acne and Skin Issues: PCOS is often associated with acne and skin problems, which can affect a young woman's confidence and self-esteem.
Weight Gain: Many individuals with PCOS struggle with weight gain and obesity, which can lead to an increased risk of other health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. PCOS also causes insulin resistance, which can make it more difficult to maintain a healthy body weight and impact your body’s ability to manage the food you eat.
Mood Swings and Depression: Hormonal imbalances can also affect mental health, leading to mood swings, anxiety, and depression. Additionally, changes relating to PCOS may cause emotional distress or discomfort.
Raising awareness about PCOS is crucial to ensure that young women and girls receive timely diagnosis and support. Here are some steps to help:
Education: Encourage young women to learn about their bodies and reproductive health and promote open conversations about menstruation and other related topics!
Regular Check-ups: Encourage routine visits to healthcare professionals for early detection of PCOS and other health concerns. Reference our other posts for tips and information about when you may choose to see a doctor. We always recommend directing personal medical concerns to your healthcare provider, who will be best able to guide you to your specific needs.
Lifestyle Modifications: A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can help manage PCOS symptoms. Lifestyle changes can help with weight gain, insulin resistance, and hormonal dysregulation in PCOS!
Medication: PCOS can be managed with medications, including birth control to help regulate hormones and limit androgen side effects, and ovulation stimulants to aid in conception for women with PCOS. Speaking to your healthcare provider is a great place to start if you think medications may help you!
Emotional Support: Offer emotional support to those affected by PCOS. Joining support groups or seeking counseling can provide a safe space to discuss their experiences and challenges.
Advocacy: Support organizations and initiatives dedicated to PCOS awareness and research. Your voice and participation can make a significant difference.
As we observe PCOS Awareness Month, it's essential for young women and girls to understand the impact of PCOS on their lives. By promoting awareness, providing support, and fostering open discussions, we can empower those affected by PCOS to lead healthier and happier lives. Together, we can work towards a world where PCOS no longer stands as an obstacle to the well-being of young women and girls.
