Let’s get real about PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome). Worldwide it affects about 8–13% of reproductive-aged women, yet it often feels like no one’s talking about it. PCOS hormonal imbalance isn’t just about irregular periods or fertility issues—it impacts your whole body, from skin to weight to mood. When hormones and PCOS are out of sync, it can throw everything off, leading to a range of symptoms. If you’re dealing with PCOS or suspect you might have it, you're not alone. Managing it can feel overwhelming, but getting a grip on what’s happening to your body makes a huge difference. So, let’s break it down in simple, no-nonsense terms for you to understand your body better.
What Is PCOS?
PCOS is a common hormonal disorder, where your body produces more androgens (the “male” hormone) than it should - and this messes with your hormonal balance. Hormones and PCOS are closely linked, as this imbalance disrupts many bodily functions. While the name comes from the cysts (small fluid-filled sacs) that can develop on your ovaries, not every woman with PCOS has these cysts. The key is understanding how hormonal imbalances impact your body and learning how to manage them effectively.
How Do Androgens Affect PCOS?
Imagine your body producing too much of a hormone it already has. That's what happens with androgens in PCOS. While both men and women have androgens, women with PCOS have higher levels. This hormonal imbalance can have a real impact on your appearance and self-esteem, causing issues like unwanted hair growth, stubborn acne, and even hair loss.
Is PCOS A Lack Of Estrogen?
Nope, PCOS isn’t a lack of estrogen. Many women with PCOS have normal or even high estrogen levels. The real problem is an imbalance between estrogen, progesterone, and androgens. It’s like a hormonal tug-of-war inside your body, and your body losing control over what should be a natural process.
What Hormonal Imbalance Causes PCOS?
At the core of PCOS is hormonal chaos. Here’s the basic breakdown:
- High androgens
- Low or irregular progesterone levels (which lead to irregular periods)
- Insulin resistance (seen in up to 70-95% of people with obese PCOS and 30-75% of people with lean PCOS)
Insulin resistance makes your body produce more insulin, and too much insulin boosts androgen production. It’s a vicious cycle.
How Can I Balance My Hormones With PCOS?
Balancing hormones when you have PCOS is tricky, but it’s not impossible. Here are a few strategies that might help:
- Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods, fibre, and lean proteins can help manage insulin levels and control hormones. Avoid processed foods and refined sugars, as these can lead to spikes in insulin and exacerbate PCOS symptoms.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity can improve insulin sensitivity and help with weight management. You don’t have to run a marathon—simple, consistent movements like walking, yoga, or swimming can make a big difference.
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Stress Management: Stress increases cortisol, which can worsen hormonal imbalances. Finding ways to manage stress—whether through mindfulness, meditation, PCOS hormone therapy, or therapy—can positively affect your hormone levels.
What Are The Warning Signs Of PCOS?
PCOS can be sneaky because the symptoms vary a lot. But here are the most common ones:
- Irregular periods or no periods at all (affects about 50% of women with PCOS)
- Excess facial or body hair (up to 70% of women)
- Acne or oily skin
- Thinning hair on your head
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight (affects about 40-80% of women)
- Fertility issues (PCOS is the cause of 70-80% of fertility problems in women who have trouble ovulating)
- Dark skin patches (often in areas like your neck or underarms)
Can Certain Drinks Help with PCOS?
While there’s no magic potion to fix PCOS, some drinks can help support hormonal balance:
- Spearmint Tea: Some studies suggest that spearmint tea may help lower androgen levels in women with PCOS, potentially reducing excess hair growth and acne.
- Green Tea: Known for its antioxidant properties, green tea can also help improve insulin sensitivity, making it a good option for managing PCOS.
- Cinnamon Water: Cinnamon has been shown to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin resistance, which can be helpful for women with PCOS.
Can a Gynaecologist Treat PCOS Hormonal Imbalance?
Yes, absolutely. If you’re struggling with PCOS, a gynaecologist is often the first step to seeking solutions. They can run tests to check your hormone levels, prescribe medications to regulate your period, and help you explore fertility treatments if needed. The key is to work with someone who understands PCOS and takes your symptoms seriously.
Can You Lower Your Androgens?
Managing excess androgens, the “male” hormones that are elevated in PCOS, can be challenging but doable. Here are some ways:
- Medications: Anti-androgen medications like spironolactone can help reduce symptoms like acne and excess hair growth.
- Birth Control Pills: Hormonal birth control can help balance androgens and regulate periods.
- Natural Supplements: Supplements like zinc and omega-3s may help lower androgen levels, but always consult your doctor before starting any new supplements.
- Diet: A low-glycemic diet, rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, can help lower insulin levels and, in turn, reduce androgens.
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Exercise: Regular physical activity helps improve insulin sensitivity, which can lead to lower androgen levels over time.
It is recommended you consult with your physician before taking any medication.
Balancing hormones with PCOS can feel like an uphill battle, but you can get through it. The key to managing PCOS is understanding your body, knowing what your triggers are, and finding the right combination of lifestyle changes and medical treatments that work for you.
You’re not alone, and with a little patience and persistence, you can absolutely take control of your hormones and feel better in your skin.
Sources:
World Health Organization - Polycystic ovary syndrome
NCBI National library of medicine - The Prevalence of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Clue - The link between PCOS and insulin resistance
Fertility centers of New England - Do Irregular Periods Mean You Have PCOS?
Cleveland Clinic - Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
NCBI National library of medicine - Treatment of infertility in women with PCOS
FLO Health - Everything you need to know about PCOS
