DR. WALKER

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome(PCOS)

What is polycystic ovarian syndrome?

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a condition characterized by multiple ovarian cysts, usually developed in both ovaries and the ovaries are generally enlarged. Recently, PCOS is thought to be a condition of primarily due to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is a condition when the cells do not respond adequately to the insulin that is being produced. PCOS predisposes to irregular menstrual cycles, obesity, excess hair growth, acne, infertility, and weight gain. Additionally, these patients may be at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular problems, and gynecological malignancies.

What are some common causes associated with PCOS?

Hormonal imbalance. In patients with PCOS, the ratio of follicular stimulating hormone(FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are improperly balanced. Specifically, luteinizing hormone is produced by the pituitary gland without corresponding changes in FSH. This imbalance may result in excessive amount of androgens being produced. Excessive amounts of androgens interferes with ovulation. All genders make androgens but traditionally, males make more androgens/male sex hormones; more testosterone than women.
Insulin resistance. Approximate 70% of women with condition PCOS have an associated insulin resistance. This is a condition in which your body does not respond properly to the insulin being produced by the pancreas. Insulin is important in regulating blood sugar levels. As the blood sugar level rises, insulin level rises as well. Too much insulin could then cause your body to make too much androgens. Some consider this condition to be the precursor to diabetes.

What are some symptoms of PCOS?

Weight gain/obesity. Approximately 80% of people with PCOS are overweight and/or obese. Weight gain and obesity are known association of insulin resistance. Insulin resistance predisposes to metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes.
Infertility. With PCOS, many of the ovarian follicles are immature, which could result in difficulty getting pregnant.
Irregular menstrual. This is a common condition in people with PCOS, in that menstrual cycles may be very irregular; sometimes cycles lasting 3 days and other times lasting weeks.
Development of male characteristics. High levels of androgens result in excess facial and body hair. Some other conditions to include male pattern baldness may occur.

What are common complications of PCOS?

Miscarriages. Several factors increase the risk of miscarriage in someone with PCOS. Common associated factors include elevated testosterone, and high insulin levels. Additionally, higher LH levels increase risk for increased insulin levels, which increases risk for insulin resistance.
Metabolic syndrome. This is a condition in which there is increased visceral obesity, and insulin resistance. These are known factors that increase risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and gynecological malignancies.
Type 2 diabetes. People with type 2 diabetes almost certainly have insulin resistance which is the precursor for diabetes.
Depression. The exact cause of depression, as it relates to PCOS is unknown. Expert however believe that increased stress from physical symptoms (facial hair and obesity)may lead to anxiety and depression.

How is PCOS diagnose?

Ultrasound. Ultrasound or sonography is able to send sound waves through the body from which a computer is able to generate an image which shows the internal anatomy. In PCOS, the ovaries may be evaluated by looking at the number of cysts in each ovary. The hallmark of PCOS is multiple peripherally oriented follicles in the ovary; usually greater than 10 or 12 cysts on a single ultrasound image.
Blood test. It is important to understand the specifics about your exact type of PCOS. Often blood panel evaluation includes: progesterone, estrogen, testosterone, and DHEA.

What are some suggested therapies?

Cinnamon. Cinnamon is a common supplement known for its ability to stabilize and lower blood sugar levels, and as a result helps to manage symptoms of PCOS. Additionally, cinnamon/cinnamon extract is known to reduce chronic inflammation associated with PCOS.
Exercise/activity. Increase exercise to include walking could help to reduce blood sugars and as a result, some weight loss. As glucose levels decrease so will insulin levels.
Anti-inflammatory diet. Increased anti-inflammatory foods to include mushrooms, spearmint tea, and cruciferous vegetables.
Increasing consumption of omega-3 fatty acid, fish/fish oil, olive oil, probiotics, and more green leafy vegetables. Reduce consumption of high lectins products to include things like nightshade foods (eggplants, tomatoes, white potatoes), peanuts, and cashews. Additionally, remove dairy/milk. Milk is known to have almost 20 hormone, most of which result in weight gain.
Supplements. Be certain to maximize vitamin D3 , K2, and magnesium levels. Also, turmeric, zinc are well-known supplements to boost the immune system.
Inositol. See inositol article.