5 Videos About Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) You Have to Watch
You've probably heard of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It's a common disorder among women, and it can cause a range of issues from infertility to acne. But how much do you really know about it? Not as much as you should. Here are five videos that fill in the holes and give you an up-close look at PCOS:
1 - Dr. Oz: Lizzie Velasquez on – Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome – Causes – Diagnosis – Symptoms
Lizzie Velasquez is one of three known people in the world who has this rare disease, which causes her body to produce an excessive amount of male hormones. In this clip from The Dr. Oz Show, Lizzie shares her story of how she was bullied for being overweight and now speaks out to help others feel better about themselves.
2 - Dr. Drew: Tracey Gold Reveals She Has Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Tracey Gold, most famously known for her role as Carol Seaver on the '80s sitcom Growing Pains , opened up about living with PCOS on Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew . Married to former NFL star Mark Schlereth, Gold has struggled with fertility issues but says that they are currently "trying again." During the interview, Gold discussed how PCOS affects not only your physical appearance but also your emotional health. Like anyone who is diagnosed with a chronic illness, Gold initially felt anger, confusion, and fear.
3 - How to Lose Weight with PCOS for Beginners
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a complex disorder of the endocrine system that causes women to have high levels of male hormones called androgens. It can cause weight gain, acne, excessive hair growth on the face or body (hirsutism), fertility issues , insulin resistance , and other problems related to your hormones . This video from Fit Life TV offers tips on how to live with this condition.
4 - Best Natural Treatments for PCOS & Getting Pregnant with PCOS & IVF Success Rates in India by Dr Deepak Gupta
Meet Dr Deepak Gupta MCh FICS, a Consultant Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist in India, who is an expert in the field of PCOS treatment. In this video he discusses natural treatments for PCOS and how to get pregnant with PCOS, including IVF success rates in India.
5 - How to Deal with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
In this video, PCOS sufferer Stephanie tells her story of how she was diagnosed with PCOS at the age of 16 and has been dealing with the condition ever since. She offers tips on how to cope with everything from fertility problems to weight gain to mood swings.
While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to living with polycystic ovary syndrome, watching these videos can give you a better understanding of what you're up against and help you find ways to manage your symptoms. Knowledge is power, so arm yourself with as much information as possible and fight PCOS head-on!
10 Things You Should Not Do When You Have PCOS
There are many challenges associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), but there are many things you can do to stay healthy and reduce your risk of developing complications later in life. Check out this list of ten things to avoid if you have PCOS.
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Smoke
Cigarette smoking raises your risk of heart disease, atherosclerosis, and diabetes. When you have PCOS, you are at a much higher risk of developing those conditions as well as metabolic syndrome, so do yourself a favor and avoid behaviors that will only increase that risk.
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Eat High-Sugar Foods
PCOS is associated with insulin resistance2, which alters your body's ability to process and deal with sugar. Insulin resistance, if unchecked, can lead to diabetes and significantly worsen complications.
This isn't to say you should avoid all sugars or switch to artificial sweeteners, but instead focus on eating natural and whole foods and avoiding as many processed foods as possible.
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Be a Couch Potato
Exercise is an important part of staying healthy for everyone. And it's especially important if you have PCOS to help lower your risk of heart disease and obesity.
There's no need to join a gym, buy expensive equipment, or spend hours working out. Instead, try to walk for 30 minutes a day, a few times a week. Make it enjoyable by going for a walk in a park, at your local mall, or with friends. Lifting weights is also a great way to gain muscle, which will boost your metabolism and insulin levels.
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Skip Doctor's Appointments
Your healthcare provider can assist you in monitoring for complications and staying healthy. The scheduled visits are essential for keeping track of your health and ensuring that you remain symptom-free. This is especially important if you're going through infertility treatment. Some medications can cause serious complications, so you must be closely monitored.
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Forget to Keep Track of Your Periods
Endometrial cancer is a risk if you do not have regular periods.4 Though uncommon, frequent missed periods can increase your chances of developing this complication. When life gets hectic, it's easy to lose track of when your last period was, so designate a special place or calendar to keep track of it.
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Ignore Your Symptoms
The good news about PCOS is that there are numerous medications and treatment options. There's no need to dismiss your symptoms or assume they're something you'll have to live with.
Check in with your healthcare provider on a regular basis to discuss your symptoms, and don't be afraid to express your dissatisfaction with the treatment.
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Underestimate Your Need for Sleep
Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia and obstructive sleep apnea, are more common in people with PCOS.5 Sleep is essential. If you don't get enough of it, your hunger hormones will be disrupted. This can lead to an increase in calorie consumption, which is usually not from healthy foods.
Getting enough sleep can assist you in losing weight and feeling better. The majority of people require six to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep per night.
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Take Your Medication Irregularly
Medications, such as the birth control pill, are most effective when taken as directed and at regular intervals. Skipping doses or failing to take it on a regular basis can render the medication ineffective, if not dangerous.
Taking metformin, for example, if you do not intend to eat, can cause your blood sugar to drop to dangerously low levels. When you pick up your medication from the pharmacy, make sure you understand how and when to take it.
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Ignore Symptoms of Depression
Depression is not something you can "snap out of," but rather a serious condition that requires the attention of a mental health professional. People with PCOS are known to be significantly more likely to suffer from depression.
If you suspect you are depressed and are experiencing symptoms such as sadness, difficulty eating or sleeping, weight loss or gain, or sleeping and eating excessively, talk to your healthcare provider or schedule an appointment with a counselor.
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Keep It to Yourself
PCOS can be a difficult condition, and having a good support system is essential. So, if you don't know anyone else who has PCOS or have no one with whom to discuss it, look for a support group.
There are numerous organizations that provide opportunities to meet other women with PCOS. Also, consult with your healthcare provider for suggestions.
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