Did you know! Overweight women with abdominal obesity are at a higher risk of having “Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)” than the general female population, followed by irregular menstrual problems. If left untreated, it may lead to serious diseases in the future, including infertility.
What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition in women of reproductive age, characterized by multiple small cysts in the ovaries. Having multiple cysts causes abnormal ovarian function and hormonal imbalances, with elevated testosterone levels. This results in irregular menstrual cycles, abnormal hair growth, and may also cause fertility problems.
Who is at risk of developing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
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- Those with direct relatives who have this condition have an increased risk.
- Those with insulin resistance, commonly found in diabetic patients.
- Women who are overweight.
Is it true that the more overweight a woman is, the higher the risk of PCOS?
Overweight women, especially those with abdominal obesity, have a higher risk of developing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome because excess fat causes insulin resistance, leading to hormonal imbalances and PCOS. It is commonly found in women aged around 25 – 35 years. If left untreated, it may cause infertility and increase the risk of abnormal endometrial thickening and uterine cancer in the future.
How dangerous is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
Although Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is not a severe disease, it can cause various complications such as:
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- Risk of infertility and reproductive problems: Women with PCOS often experience irregular or absent menstruation and ovulation disorders, leading to infertility. If pregnant, there is a higher chance of miscarriage in the first trimester, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and fetal growth retardation.
- Risk of diabetes: PCOS affects hormonal regulation of blood sugar levels, often causing high insulin resistance, which is a major risk factor for diabetes.
- Risk of uterine cancer: Especially in those with long-standing untreated PCOS due to irregular menstruation.
- Psychological and confidence complications: Women with PCOS often suffer from hair loss, oily skin, acne, and abnormal body hair growth, which may lead to low self-esteem, depression, or anxiety.
Suspicious symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
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- Irregular menstruation, with missed or absent periods.
- Light spotting or excessively heavy and prolonged menstruation.
- Chronic acne, more severe than usual, oily skin, baldness, and excessive body hair.
- Abdominal obesity and significant overweight.
How is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome treated?
Treatment for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome varies depending on the patient’s goals, as follows:
- Lifestyle modification
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- Exercise regularly to reduce weight, control blood sugar and insulin levels, manage diet by reducing high sugar and fat intake, and focus on healthy fats, vegetables, and fruits.
- Get enough rest, as lack of sleep affects hormones.
- Reduce stress through exercise and meditation.
- Medication
After diagnosis by a gynecologist, initial treatment may include symptom-based medications such as menstrual regulators, hormone therapy, ovulation stimulants, contraceptives, and insulin resistance treatments.
- Surgery
In cases unresponsive to medication and desiring pregnancy, surgery may be performed to stimulate ovulation and increase the chance of conception.
Treatment for PCOS may involve a combination of methods tailored to reduce symptom severity and prevent future complications.
How to prevent Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Although PCOS cannot be completely prevented due to genetic factors, there are ways to reduce the risk of developing this condition, as follows:
- Maintain a normal body weight: Being overweight is a major risk factor for PCOS. Regular exercise and diet control to maintain a normal BMI can significantly reduce the risk.
- Change dietary habits: Avoid foods high in sugar, trans fats, and complex carbohydrates as they increase insulin resistance. It is recommended to consume high-fiber foods such as vegetables, fruits, nuts, and whole grains.
- Exercise regularly: Exercising at least 150 minutes per week or about 20-30 minutes daily helps control weight, reduce diabetes risk, and increase insulin sensitivity, thereby lowering the risk of PCOS.
- Reduce stress: Chronic stress affects hormone function and egg cell production. Stress management methods such as meditation, adequate rest, and relaxing activities are recommended.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is commonly found in overweight women. Therefore, adopting a healthy lifestyle is an important preventive measure. Besides reducing the risk of PCOS, it also helps prevent other diseases such as diabetes and uterine cancer.
If you notice any abnormalities or suspicious symptoms, you should consult a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment to avoid severe complications.
