Diet, lifestyle, other tips important in preventing and managing PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS is a prevalent health condition that affects women in their reproductive years (15–49 years), with reported global prevalence ranging from 4% to 20% (approximately 8 to 40 crore women affected worldwide. Are there). In India, its prevalence is significantly higher, reportedly ranging from 3.7% to 22.5% (affecting approximately 13 to 79 million women).

In fact, a recent Gynoveda survey conducted with 3 lakh Indian women aged 18-45 revealed that 70% face menstrual health problems, especially PCOS, which impairs fertility. And significantly affects the quality of life. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Ruchita Singh, gynecologist at HCL Healthcare, shared, “Characterized by hormonal imbalance, irregular menstrual cycles and ovarian cysts, PCOS poses significant risks, potentially leading to infertility, type 2 “It causes diabetes and heart disease, which causes it.” is a major health concern for women globally. Ojiva’s nationwide survey for PCOS month found that 65% of Indian women are unaware of the symptoms of PCOS, highlighting the need for increased awareness.

Understanding Risk Factors

Although the exact cause of PCOS is unclear, Dr Ruchita Singh lists several factors that increase the risk of developing this condition –

• Genetics: Family history of PCOS may increase your risk
• insulin resistance: A major factor, insulin resistance, can lead to high androgen levels, which can disrupt ovulation.
• Swelling: Chronic low-grade inflammation has been linked to higher androgen production
• obesity: Excess weight can increase insulin resistance and inflammation, which contribute to PCOS.

Learn more about symptoms

According to Dr. Ruchita Singh, recognizing the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome is important for early intervention and management and these symptoms generally appear in late adolescence or early adulthood. Symptoms include:

• Irregular or completely absent menstruation
• Difficulty conceiving due to irregular or absent ovulation
• Excessive hair growth on the face, chest, back, or buttocks, known as hirsutism
• abnormal weight gain
• thinning scalp
• oily skin or acne

The health expert revealed, “Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to various long-term health complications, including increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure. Additionally, PCOS is associated with an increased chance of developing certain types of cancer, such as ovarian and breast cancer. Given these potential risks, it is important to seek medical advice for individuals who suspect they may have PCOS. Early diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment strategy can significantly reduce these risks and improve overall health outcomes.

prevention strategies

Dr Ruchita Singh said that given the complexity of PCOS, prevention focuses on managing the risk factors –

• Healthy diet and regular exercise: A balanced diet and regular physical activity can help control weight, reduce insulin resistance, and improve hormonal balance.
• Regular checkup: Early detection through regular medical checkups can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
• stress management: Chronic stress can affect hormonal balance. Practices like yoga, meditation and adequate sleep can be beneficial.

Lifestyle changes: the cornerstone of prevention

Dr Ruchita Singh highlights that it is important to adopt a healthy lifestyle to prevent and manage PCOS –

• Balanced Nutrition: Focus on a diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins and vegetables. Reducing your intake of processed foods and sugars can also help manage insulin levels.
• Regular physical activity: Aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
• weight management: Even a modest weight loss of 5-10% can improve PCOS symptoms.
• Quit smoking: Smoking makes PCOS worse by increasing health problems like metabolic problems and hormone imbalance. Quitting smoking can really help improve your health and reduce PCOS symptoms.
• Protection from toxins: Reduce exposure to endocrine disruptors found in some plastics and personal care products.

medical intervention

Dr. Ruchita Singh explained that in some cases medical intervention may be necessary –

• Medicines: Birth control pills can regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce androgen levels. Medications such as metformin can also help manage insulin resistance.
• Regular Screening: Regular checkups for diabetes, cholesterol and blood pressure are necessary.

Preventing PCOS requires a multifaceted approach, focusing on lifestyle changes, regular medical checkups, and awareness. By understanding the risk factors and adopting preventive measures, women can significantly reduce their risk of developing PCOS and its associated complications.