Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common conditions I work with in women's health. Thankfully, it is getting more recognition which is resulting in more diagnosis.
However - there seems to be an understanding that one can ONLY have PCOS if there is weight gain present, yet this is not the case. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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According to John Hopkins Medicine,
some of the most common symptoms of PCOS are:⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Missed periods, irregular periods, or very light periods⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Ovaries that are large or have many cysts⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Excess body hair, including the chest, stomach, and back (hirsutism)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Weight gain, especially around the belly (abdomen)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Acne or oily skin⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Male-pattern baldness or thinning hair⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Infertility ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Small pieces of excess skin on the neck or armpits (skin tags)⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Dark or thick skin patches on the back of the neck, in the armpits, and under the breasts⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
But it is important to note that even if weight gain is not present or there is a general fluctuation of weight or even weight loss; it can also signify PCOS. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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How do you know if you have PCOS? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Ultrasound. This test uses sound waves and a computer to create images of blood vessels, tissues, and organs. This test is used to look at the size of the ovaries and see if they have cysts. The test can also look at the thickness of the lining of the uterus (endometrium).⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Blood tests. These look for high levels of androgens and other hormones. Your health care provider may also check your blood glucose levels. And you may have your cholesterol and triglyceride levels checked.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Ready for help in managing PCOS symptoms through your food sources?