Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition in which the ovaries produce an abnormal amount of androgens, male sex hormones that are usually present in women in small amounts. It is a hormonal disorder causing enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges. But how is stress related to the symptoms of PCOS?
To understand the relationship between stress and PCOS, and how stress can worsen PCOS symptoms, OnlyMyHealth team interacted with Dr Nazia Dalwai, MBBS, Gen physician, HCL Healthcare, Mumbai.
PCOS And Stress
Talking about PCOS and stress, Dr Dalwai said, “Quality of life is largely hampered in terms of emotional well-being due to manifestations of PCOS. Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a lifestyle disorder leading to a high prevalence of chronic stress starting from the age of puberty till menopause.”
According to a study published by Clinical Epidemiology and Global Health, stress is known to intensify the pathogenesis of PCOS and aggravate its complications.
Dr Dalwai said, “The polycystic syndrome is associated with various signs and symptoms mainly irregular periods to delayed or scanty periods, absence of menses hirsutism acne, metabolic syndrome, central obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes in the long run, endometrial cancer and 40 percent present with infertility.”
Also read: Why You Should Take Vitamin D For Managing PCOS? Here’s What Doctor Recommends
Furthermore, Dr Dalwai said, “There is a high prevalence of anxiety and depressive symptoms and patients should be routinely screened at adolescent, reproductive and menopausal diagnosis of hirsutism, negative body image, impact on sex life and relationships. Also eating disorders and disordered eating are suspected.”
Recommendations For Managing Stress And PCOS
Dr Dalwai listed down some points for managing stress and PCOS symptoms for the betterment and well-being of your mental as well as menstrual health.
1. Healthy lifestyle behaviours encompassing healthy eating and regular physical activity.
2. Maintain a healthy weight as per BMI (Body Mass Index).
3. Consuming a diet of 1200 to 1500 kcal per day can be prescribed for women.
4. Prevention of weight gain, and monitoring weight is of utmost importance.
Also read: How To Treat PCOS Without Birth Control Pills?
5. As per the presentation of the symptoms, easily available, cost-effective, evidence-based medical solutions provide satisfactory health outcomes in patients with PCOS. For example, IVF or ICSI therapy for infertility associated with anovulatory PCOS, bariatric surgery to have a healthy baby in the first 10 years of surgery, antidiabetic and antiobesity drugs as per regional guidelines, rational use of antidepressants and anti-anxiety medication are highly recommended mainstays in treating PCOS according to Dr Dalwai.
6. As wisely said there is no replacement for healthy eating and exercise in the management of any lifestyle with PCOS.
7. Cosmetic treatment like laser hair reduction with the latest technology plays a pivotal role in the management of hirsutism observed as a chronic stressor of PCOS around adolescent years.
8. Stress can be overcome by practising mindfulness, meditation, yoga, zumba or any other physical exercise. Creative learning, writing, and developing skills like learning new languages and reading self-help, humorous books can make you feel better. Apart from this, laughter therapy, travelling, making friends, making fruitful healthy relationships, and being consistent in forming a routine with work are some important ways of navigating life under chronic stress and PCOS, as per Dr Dalwai.