Let’s talk about PCOS…Part One!

Although it is finally gaining more attention as one of the most common syndromes experienced by women in childbearing age, it is often misdiagnosed and some can go years without knowing they have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome most commonly known by its acronym PCOS. Admittedly, it is not as easy to diagnose as we would hope, as one common symptom of PCOS, heavy menstrual periods, could be associated with a wide variety of conditions like fibroids or polyps, among others.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome causes a variety of issues including acne, painful periods, weight gains or inability to lose weight easily, hirsutism, meaning too much body hair, insulin resistance, which is the ability of your body’s cells to process sugars which may leads to Type 2 Diabetes, restlessness, insomnia, headaches, mood swings and infertility. The list goes on, but those are the most common.

Pelvic pain? You may have PCOS.

If it’s so difficult to diagnose how do you know if you have PCOS? Your OBGYN can help you find out by looking at the following:

• A long history of painful periods, pelvic pain and heavy bleeding (or absent periods)

• Severe mood swings

• Ultrasound shows ovarian cysts with a particular shape similar to a string of pearls along the edge of the ovaries

• Blood test which shows unusually high levels of testosterone, which causes hirsutism, and high glucose levels, which is caused by insulin resistance.

What can you do if you have PCOS?

Although there are no known cures for PCOS, it is best to start by fixing hormonal imbalances, which is why it is important to do a blood test and verify your levels of testosterone and glucose. Improve your metabolism with a healthy protein/mineral rich diet, but also regular exercise, which will also improve your mood.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a topic to be talked about at length and we will look into what kind of diet and exercise is good to stimulate your metabolism and lower the symptoms. For now, the best thing is to add an hormonal balancing powder to your diet, but also, as the main issue of PCOS is insuline resistance, eat less process food and sugar, more fresh vegetables and fiber.

Semaine Daily and PMS & Period Support contain adaptogens and other natural ingredients to help you rebalance your hormone daily and during your period.

Try it and let us know what you think!