Understanding the Four Main Types of PCOS
1 out of every 15 women globally suffers from the endocrine condition known as polycystic ovarian syndrome, or PCOS. Hirsutism, acne, and increased levels of male hormones, or androgens are the main symptoms associated with PCOS. This illness can cause long-term insulin resistance, miscarriage, or even infertility in women. Both allopathic treatment and home remedies for pcos have proven to be effective in treating the pcos irregular periods, mood swings, stomach pain, and other symptoms.
PCOS Symptoms in Females
- Irregular Periods: Absence of periods or not getting a period at all are indications of abnormal menstruation. Additionally, there may be severe bleeding during periods
- Abnormal hair development: Excessive facial hair, hirsutism, or heavy hair growth on your arms, chest, and abdomen.
- Acne: Severe acne development especially on the face, back, and chest.
- Obesity: Between 40 and 80 percent of PCOS individuals are overweight and have trouble keeping their weight in check.
- Skin darkening: Dark spots may develop on your body, particularly around your breasts, in the groin (the space between your legs), armpits, and neck folds.
- Cysts: Many people with PCOS have ovaries that appear larger or contain many follicles (egg sac cysts)
- Skin tags: Little flaps of extra skin are often found in your armpits or on your neck.
- Hair thinning: People with PCOS may begin to go bald or lose patches of hair on their head.
Four Main Types of PCOS/PCOD
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder affecting millions of women worldwide. While the exact causes remain unclear, it’s generally linked to an imbalance in reproductive hormones.
To better understand PCOS, it’s helpful to recognize its different types. Here are the four primary types:
1. Insulin-Resistant PCOS
This is the most common type of PCOS, characterized by insulin resistance. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. When the body becomes resistant to insulin, it can lead to:
- Increased androgen production: Androgens are male hormones that can cause unwanted hair growth, acne, and irregular periods.
- Polycystic ovaries: These are ovaries with many small cysts that can interfere with ovulation.
2. Inflammatory PCOS
Low-grade inflammation is a hallmark of this type of PCOS. This inflammation can trigger insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances.
3. Hidden-Cause PCOS
In this type, the underlying cause of PCOS is not immediately apparent. It can be challenging to diagnose, as traditional tests may not reveal any obvious abnormalities.
4. Pill-Induced PCOS
Sometimes, PCOS can develop after discontinuing hormonal birth control pills. This is because the body may need time to readjust its hormonal balance.
It’s important to note that these types are not mutually exclusive. Many women may exhibit characteristics of multiple types. If you suspect you may have PCOS, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Early diagnosis and management can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of long-term health complications, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
How to Control PCOS?
Natural remedies for pcos have been immensely beneficial in addressing bilateral pcos symptoms, mood swings and inflammation in pcos, pcos acne, etc. However, a proper medical treatment along with the polycystic ovary syndrome physical exercise is essential for the holistic pcos natural treatment.
- Whole Foods: Whole foods do not contain artificial sweeteners and preservatives. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes are some of the foods that will keep insulin levels stable in the women with PCOD.
- Carbohydrates: Consuming carbohydrates can raise insulin levels by influencing blood sugar levels. It is crucial to eat more foods rich in protein and fiber and less carbs.
- Anti-inflammatory Foods: Olive oil, tree nuts, fatty fish like tuna and mackerel, tomatoes, and leafy vegetables and greens have anti-inflammatory qualities which helps in reducing the symptoms of PCOS.
- Iron Intake: Women with PCOS are more likely to experience excessive bleeding during their menstrual periods, which increases the risk of iron deficiency. Therefore, foods rich in iron such as, spinach, eggs, broccoli, etc. should be included.
- Magnesium: Foods high in magnesium, like spinach, cashews, almonds, and bananas, can be included in the diet to combat PCOS symptoms. Magnesium promotes healthy sleep and helps to keep insulin levels stable.
FAQs on PCOS
1. Is Stein Leventhal syndrome the same as PCOS?
Stein Leventhal syndrome is a traditional term for the PCOS. It is characterized by the symptoms, like, irregular periods, excessive facial hair growth, acne, infertility, etc.
2. Can pcos cause cancer?
PCOS is not directly associated with the cancer. However, certain symptoms associated with PCOS like, hormonal imbalance, ovarian cysts, increased levels of oestrogen, may lead to the development of ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, and breast cancer.
3. What is included in the pcos profile test?
Several tests, including, blood sugar (glucose, HbA1c), insulin (and HOMA-IR), thyroid hormones (TSH), lipid profile, etc. are included in the pcos profile test. Depending on the patient’s condition and symptoms, the individual tests are prescribed by your doctor.
4. Can pcos treatment in ayurveda cure the condition permanently?
Although pcos treatment in ayurveda is the most popular pcos natural treatment, but the teratment process is too slow and doesn’t cure severe symptoms, like, infertility.
5. Can PCOD cause throid problems?
PCOD and thyroid are not related directly. However, some of the symptoms, such as obesity, are may be linked to hypothyroidism. Some other symptoms, like, insulin resistance, hormonal imbalances, and genetic factors may lead to the development of thyroid.
Remember, you’re not alone. With the right treatment and support, you can manage PCOS and live a fulfilling life.
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& PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome): Symptoms, Treatment, & Tips