happy women’s Day: Women who have an imbalance in their reproductive hormones may develop polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which is a medical condition. It causes many problems like irregular menstruation, growth of facial hair and trouble getting pregnant. People with PCOS are four times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
The term polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is no longer new and is often associated with many women’s health issues related to menstruation. Women with PCOS are typically diagnosed as being insulin resistant, having high levels of inflammation throughout the body, being obese, and leading stressful lives. This complex and chronic lifelong problem is caused by hormonal imbalance and results in various physical health problems as well as mental health problems.
Many women are surprised to learn that PCOS often affects their emotional and mental health in addition to its physical symptoms, which include irregular menstrual periods and excess facial hair. Women with PCOS may experience frequent fatigue, low patience and a low tolerance for stress, yet they often attribute these symptoms to everyday life and consider them normal.
While the link between PCOS and depression has long been observed solely among women who have the condition, the scientific community is only now starting to catch up.
Ahead of International Women’s Day, Zee Digital spoke to Dr Sushma Tomar, Consultant – Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Fortis Hospital, Kalyan, to understand why women feel they are always tired and lack patience, But they often attribute it to normal life and take it for granted.
“Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) is an endocrine disorder. PCOD is a disease of early age, where the person faces hormonal disorders. It is characterized by androgenic symptoms like acne, thinning of hair (especially on the scalp), facial hair etc. produces.” Dr. Sushma.
pcos and mental health
Mood swings, difficulty getting out of bed, struggling to maintain social interactions, and lack of self-care all play into play with PCOS and depression. Yet apart from these, PCOS can also result in a number of other mental health problems, such as:
– Worry
– bipolar disorder
– severe depressive disorder
– bulimia and/or other eating disorders
– Somatization (physical symptoms of bad mental feelings) (physical manifestations of negative mental states)
– interpersonal awareness
Dr. Sushma Tomar mentioned, “Male hormones predominate, so the patient suffers from such symptoms as obesity, hirsutism, irregular menstruation, infertility and many more. Due to these different symptoms and physical differences these individuals Compared to their friends and relatives, the mental health of many young girls is affected as they face anxiety and depression.”
In addition, excess weight, acne and hirsutism affect their self-confidence as they face body image issues, says Dr. Tomar. The mental health of older women is also affected, which makes it difficult to conceive. Trying but not able due to infertility issues.” ,
Treating mental health problems caused by PCOS
Dr. Sushma Tomar comments and advises, “For better mental health, women should remember that PCOD is treatable. To manage weight, follow a healthy diet consisting of protein, fiber, fruits, etc.” One can opt for diet and exercise regularly as this will help in maintaining a healthy weight. Also, it will release mood hormones, helping in managing the patient’s mood. Additionally, exercising will prevent binge eating. Avoidance will help. Girls can take hormone control pills prescribed by their doctor, which will help manage acne and reduce facial hair growth. Together, this will create a positive outlook, manage mental health And will help create a positive image.”
Talk therapy may help those who are struggling with depression associated with PCOS or general self-esteem issues, and cognitive behavioral therapy may help those who are dealing with anxiety attacks and PCOS. Practicing self-care and stress reduction through meditation, massage, essential oil baths, or anything else that makes you feel relaxed and cared for will help you keep track of patterns and triggers. You may also benefit from journaling your experiences.
PCOS Diet For Healthy Lifestyle:
– Vegetables and fresh fruits
– Omega-3 rich foods
– sources of protein
Avoid fried food
Stay away from caffeinated beverages like coffee
If you are struggling with these problems, you are not alone. There is an association between PCOS and depression and other mental health conditions. It’s easy to believe that your symptoms result from the everyday stresses of life, but there may be treatments that can help you feel like yourself again and resume your regular daily activities.
Take care ladies of all ages!