Around 5 million US women who are of reproductive age suffer with PCOS, which is one of the most prevalent reasons for infertility in women. That’s not all that it is, though. Much after the years of childbearing end, this chronic health issue persists. The ineffective utilization of insulin by women with PCOS increases their risk of type 2 diabetes, even if their bodies are capable of producing insulin. Along with irregular periods, acne, thinning hair on the scalp, and excessive facial and body hair growth, they also have greater amounts of androgens, which are male hormones that are also present in females. Androgens can prevent eggs from being released during ovulation.
PCOS: Linking Insulin Resistance to Diabetes Risk
Insulin resistance, which occurs in many PCOS-affected women, is a condition in which the body can accumulate insulin and make it challenging to maintain normal blood glucose levels. Since this is a risk factor for diabetes, women who have PCOS are more vulnerable to the disease. As a matter of fact, by the time they are 40 years old, 10% of women with PCOS have diabetes and 35% have prediabetes. Diabetes risk is also increased by higher testosterone levels. Women with PCOS also frequently experience weight gain due to increased insulin, especially around the belly. Visceral fat, or fat around the abdomen, is known to raise triglyceride levels and decrease HDL, or “good,” cholesterol.
Targeting Visceral Fat and Insulin Resistance
The buildup of visceral fat, or “belly fat,” is encouraged by PCOS’s elevated testosterone levels and other hormonal abnormalities. Fatty acids and inflammatory chemicals are released as a result, worsening insulin resistance and raising the risk of diabetes even more. It is critical to identify and treat the early warning indicators, such as increased testosterone and blood sugar levels. There is a great demand for lifestyle therapies that focus on managing weight and insulin sensitivity.
Addressing PCOS-Related Risks
Women with PCOS often have higher-than-normal amounts of androgen, a male hormone, which can affect insulin and glucose metabolism, impair ovulation, and finally cause diabetes. Early menstrual hormone imbalances and swings can exacerbate menopausal symptoms later in life, cause excessive weight gain during pregnancy that may continue until old age, raise bad cholesterol, and more. In order to prevent chronic diabetes and cardiovascular problems in the future, it is crucial for women with reproductive health difficulties to be vigilant about insulin resistance and inflammation at an early stage.
Monitoring Menstrual Changes and Reproductive Symptoms
Women should be aware of any changes in their menstrual periods, such as abrupt shortening or lengthening, irregularity following regularity, or both. Several new and worsening premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms may also be an indication that hormone levels are shifting. PCOS may be indicated by rapid, difficult-to-control weight gain, excessive body or facial hair, severe acne, or thinning scalp hair. Medical treatment is also necessary if reproductive symptoms worsen over time, such as a development of cramps and pelvic pain or the discovery of tiny ovarian cysts by ultrasound.
It is important for women with PCOS to adopt a healthy lifestyle as it can help manage the condition and reduce the risk of associated complications like diabetes and heart disease. Managing PCOS can be daunting but one should remember that they have the power to make a difference though diet and exercise. Everyone, especially women with PCOS, should prioritize healthy habits and incorporate regular exercise and a balanced diet in their lifestyle. By doing so, they can mitigate the risks associated with PCOS and improve their overall health and quality of life.
