5 Things To Know If You Have PCOS.
1. You did not Cause your PCOS.
The exact cause for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is not known. However, if anything is certain, it is that despite what you may have been told, you are not to blame for your PCOS. Several factors, including genetics, are believed to play a role in PCOS onset.
For example, androgens or male hormones are found to be higher than usual in women that have PCOS. This may be due to insulin resistance. High androgen levels and insulin resistance can be a driver behind some signs and symptoms you may be experiencing.
2. PCOS is not a Rare Condition.
PCOS is one of those hormonal endocrine disorders that tend to go undiagnosed among women of reproductive age. In New Zealand, PCOS is estimated to be diagnosed in at least 21% of randomly selected women.You are not alone if you do get diagnosed with PCOS. There is a large community of ‘Cysters’ out there who take inspiration from each other, support each other and don’t let their PCOS diagnosis stop them from living their best life.
3. You can still get pregnant even if you have PCOS.
You can indeed get pregnant with PCOS, by managing the drivers of your symptoms you can regulate your menstrual cycle to then ovulate regularly again. Due to its effects on ovulation, insulin resistance in PCOS has been related to fertility issues and is the driver of fertility issues in 80% of women with PCOS.
4. Calories may not be causing your weight gain.
It can be super frustrating when you are putting in more effort to eat healthy and restricting calories and as a result not lose any weight. Often, this can be exhausting and unsustainable. With PCOS, the concept of eating healthy can be a little different. It is more important to eat the right foods that support your type of PCOS rather than eating less. Weight is affected by metabolic hormones as opposed to a simple calorie equation. In other words, focus on feeding your hormones as a part of your PCOS treatment.
5. PCOS fatigue does not mean you are lazy.
It’s okay to feel tired. Hormone profiles experienced in PCOS, often caused by insulin resistance, can leave you feeling sluggish and lethargic. Inflammation and stress may also be to blame for your low energy levels. This is why stress-management is so important. Taking time in your busy day for yourself to relax will make all the difference.
Need help with PCOS?
We work alongside your GP, Pelvic Physiotherapist, Gynecologist or specialist to achieve the best result for you. With our help, you’ll build a team of professionals around you so you can get the results you’re looking for.
As a leading private health clinic, we can see you for online telehealth appointments across Aotearoa New Zealand from the comfort of your home.
With a team of Registered Nurses, Clinical Nutritionists and Medical Herbalists, we support people (just like you) with period problems, hormones, acne, polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis and fertility journeys.
Learn more about how Hekate Clinic can help you.
