Understanding PCOS and Taking Control of Your Health

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common but often misunderstood endocrine disorder that affects millions of women worldwide. It can lead to hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and a range of symptoms that impact overall health and well-being. Recently, Dee sat down with Dr. Portinger to discuss the complexities of PCOS, its link to other health conditions, and effective ways to manage it. If you're looking to understand PCOS and take charge of your health, this guide is for you.

What is PCOS?

PCOS is characterized by irregular periods, hormonal imbalances, and enlarged ovaries with multiple small cysts. While its exact cause remains unknown, researchers believe genetic and environmental factors—such as obesity—play a role in its development. Common symptoms of PCOS include:

✔️ Irregular or missed periods
✔️ Excessive hair growth (hirsutism)
✔️ Acne and oily skin
✔️ Unexplained weight gain
✔️ Thinning hair or hair loss
✔️ Difficulty conceiving

If left unmanaged, PCOS can lead to long-term health risks such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and infertility.

The Link Between Insulin Resistance and PCOS

One of the key underlying factors of PCOS is insulin resistance. Dr. Portinger explained that when the body becomes resistant to insulin, the pancreas produces more to compensate. This excess insulin can:

➡️ Trigger the ovaries to produce more androgens (male hormones) like testosterone, leading to acne, hair growth, and irregular cycles.
➡️ Contribute to weight gain, making it harder to lose fat despite lifestyle changes.
➡️ Increase inflammation and the risk of developing metabolic syndrome, which includes high blood sugar, high blood pressure, and unhealthy cholesterol levels.

Understanding and managing insulin resistance is crucial to controlling PCOS symptoms effectively.

Managing PCOS with Lifestyle and Medical Treatments

The good news is that PCOS can be managed through a combination of lifestyle adjustments and medical interventions. Dr. Portinger recommends:

✔️ Diet & Nutrition:
A low glycemic index (GI) diet or ketogenic diet can help stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce insulin resistance. Avoiding processed sugars and refined carbs is essential.

✔️ Regular Exercise:
Consistent chronic exercise (such as walking, strength training, and cardio) improves insulin sensitivity and supports hormonal balance.

✔️ Medications:

• Metformin: Helps regulate blood sugar, lowers insulin levels, and reduces androgen production.

• Hormonal Birth Control (Diane 35, Yasmin): Helps regulate cycles, reduce acne, and control excessive hair growth.

• Ovulation Stimulation (Letrozole, Clomiphene): Used for those trying to conceive, these medications help trigger ovulation.

While surgical procedures like laparoscopic ovary drilling exist, they are rarely necessary and can cause long-term damage.

Watch: PCOS and Insulin Resistance Explained

For a deeper understanding of how insulin resistance impacts PCOS and the best strategies to manage it, watch this expert discussion: