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Effective Home Remedies For PCOS

Introduction: 

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), also known as polycystic ovarian syndrome or Stein-Leventhal syndrome, is a complex disorder in which women experience irregular periods and/or the development of a few small cysts (fluid-filled sacs) on one or both ovaries. This is due to the overproduction of male hormone (which is also present in females but in lower quantities) in females. This disorder affects around 7% of women in the world. There are higher chances for women with PCOS to develop type-2 diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, heart diseases and cancer of the uterus. Diet, exercise and medicines help control the symptoms, but there is no cure for this disorder.1  

What Causes PCOS?: 

The exact cause of PCOS is not yet known, but it is known that it has some relation to insulin resistance (the body is either unable to generate insulin or is not able to utilise it). The other factors which are known are also in some way related to insulin resistance. The various factors for the development of PCOS include: 

PCOS is commonly associated with type 2 diabetes, prolonged infertility and miscarriage; getting a Gynecologist’s consultation is very important at an early stage if you experience any symptoms of PCOS.

Dr Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D. in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology

Did you know?

  • Lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and increased physical activity, can help manage PCOS. Source: cdc.gov
  • Women with PCOS are often insulin resistant, increasing their risk for type 2 diabetes.Source: cdc.gov
  • PCOS affects 6-12% of US women of reproductive age, causing infertility and hormonal imbalances. source: CDC

Symptoms of PCOS: 

The proper diagnosis of the syndrome is to be done by a doctor. However, there are certain symptoms that you should be on the lookout for. They are as follows: 

Suggested Home Remedies for  PCOS: 

The remedies recommended for PCOS mainly include lifestyle changes and a few herbal remedies as well to manage the symptoms. Some of the remedies are as follows:  

1. Mulethi  

Mulethi is also known as liquorice. It was found that it may be beneficial for managing PCOS. It acts against androgens and also stimulates the production of an enzyme which converts androgen into estrogen (female hormone).5 You can take a cup of hot water, mix mulethi root powder in it and use it for two months. This brew can be used for even longer to have prolonged effects.    

2. Flaxseeds  

It was found in studies that flaxseeds contain a compound which aids in decreasing the level of androgen in the body. They caused a reduction of symptoms of PCOS that occur due to increased androgen levels, like abnormal growth of body hair. It was also found to help in weight reduction.6 The consumption of flaxseeds, by adding them into your daily diet in the form of milkshakes and smoothies or by directly consuming them, can be beneficial for your health.  

3. Cinnamon  

Cinnamon improves the function of insulin receptors, which provides a beneficial effect for women with PCOS. It was also found by researchers that supplementation of cinnamon in diet can correct menstrual irregularities.7 It can be consumed by adding it to the water while preparing tea and taking it daily. It can also be consumed in tablet forms, which are more concentrated, but you should consult your doctor before doing so.    

4. Omega 3 Supplements or Fish Oil  

Studies have shown that by taking omega 3 fatty acids supplements, the regularity of the menstrual cycle can be restored. However, there is no change in weight, bleeding, size of the ovary or number of ovarian follicles seen. Fish oil supplementation showed a decrease in the waist-hip ratio additionally.8  

5. Chamomile Tea  

Chamomile tea was found to reduce the symptoms of PCOS in animal studies. In the same study, when the tissues of the ovary were observed under a microscope after treating with chamomile extract, the signs of PCOS were decreased.9 However, more research on humans is required to ascertain it. We can consume it by using a bag of chamomile tea or a spoon of it in warm water and brewing it.    

6. Aloe Vera Gel  

Aloe vera is used along with certain other compounds to make formulations to manage PCOS, as they help in restoring the levels of a hormone in the ovaries. These were the findings of an animal study.10 The exact use of aloe vera gel is not known and requires further investigation.  

7. Nirgundi or Chasteberry  

Nirgundi is a herb that has many medicinal properties. It acts against insulin resistance of the body, decreases androgen levels, and has similar activity to estrogen. Therefore, it may have beneficial effects on women with PCOS.11  

You can eat bitter gourd as a vegetable or drink its juice. This will help control blood sugar levels. Amla or Indian gooseberry also has a similar effect.
Fenugreek leaves and tulsi or basil will help maintain insulin levels. PCOS patients have high levels of insulin, as it remains unused in the body, increasing blood sugar levels.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka – MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)

Other Lifestyle Modifications For PCOS: 

When to Seek Medical Help?  

When you observe some symptoms of PCOS, a doctor should be consulted for proper examination and diagnosis. This will prevent the worsening of the condition.  

Conclusion: 

PCOS is a complex condition, and there is a need for further research to know the exact mechanism and cause of it. There is no cure discovered yet for it; therefore, management of symptoms plays an important role in preventing the condition from worsening. Lifestyle modifications, attainment and management of optimum weight are the most important measures. Additionally, diligent use of certain herbs has also shown great results. Let’s put our faith in science and hope for a cure to PCOS; until then, we must do what we can and stay healthy.      

Also Read: 10 Effective Home Remedies For Irregular Periods

Frequently Asked Questions: 

Is PCOS communicable?  

No, PCOS is not a communicable disease. There is a chance for the disease to occur in families, but the exact mechanism and reason for the occurrence are unknown. 2  

Can honey cure PCOS?  

There is no cure for PCOS. You need to manage the symptoms that are associated with it. There are no reports stating the beneficial effects of honey on the symptoms of PCOS.  

Is chamomile tea good for PCOS?  

Yes, chamomile tea has an anti-inflammatory action and is said to reduce period pain as well. Therefore, it can be beneficial for PCOS. It is also said to prevent premature labour pain, which can occur in pregnant women with PCOS.1,9    

Does PCOS cause hair loss?  

Yes, the loss of hair from the scalp can occur in PCOS. Other symptoms of PCOS include irregular periods, infertility, excessive hair growth on the face, stomach, thighs etc.3        

Also Read: Natural Home Remedies For Hair Fall

References: 

1. Ndefo UA, Eaton A, Green MR. Polycystic ovary syndrome: A review of treatment options with a focus on pharmacological approaches. P T [Internet]. 2013;38(6):336–55. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23946629/  

2. CDC. PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and Diabetes. Centers Dis Control Prev [Internet]. 2020;1–2. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/basics/pcos.html 

3. Weiss JM, Hadžiomerović D, Kreienberg R. Polycystic ovary syndrome. Gynakologe [Internet]. 2008;41(3):179–88. Available from: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/polycystic-ovarian-syndrome-pcos 

4. Pal L, Pathy S. Polycystic ovarian syndrome. Evidence-based Obstet Gynecol [Internet]. 2018;117(129):1–7. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/polycysticovarysyndrome.html#:~:text=Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) happens,Irregular menstrual periods 

5. Shamsi M, Nejati V, Najafi G, Pour SK. Protective effects of licorice extract on ovarian morphology, oocyte maturation, and embryo development in pcos-induced mice: an experimental study. Int J Reprod Biomed [Internet]. 2020;18(10):865–76. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7569710/pdf/ijrb-18-865.pdf 

6. Nowak DA, Snyder DC, Brown AJ, Demark-Wahnefried W. The effect of flaxseed supplementation on hormonal levels associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome: A case study. Curr Top Nutraceutical Res [Internet]. 2007;5(4):177–81. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2752973/pdf/nihms93691.pdf 

7. Dou L, Zheng Y, Li L, Gui X, Chen Y, Yu M, et al. The effect of cinnamon on polycystic ovary syndrome in a mouse model. Reprod Biol Endocrinol [Internet]. 2018;16(1):1–10. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6194596/pdf/12958_2018_Article_418.pdf 

8. khani Behnaz, Mardanian Farahnaz F jafari sajadeh. Omega 3 supplementation in polycystic ovarian syndrome and metabolic syndrome. J Res Med Sci [Internet]. 2019;24(1). Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5461594/pdf/JRMS-22-64.pdf 

9. Farideh ZZ, Bagher M, Ashraf A, Akram A, Kazem M. Effects of chamomile extract on biochemical and clinical parameters in a rat model of polycystic ovary syndrome. J Reprod Infertil [Internet]. 2010;11(3):169–74. Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23926485%0Ahttp://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=PMC3719301 

10. Maharjan R, Nagar P, Nampoothiri L. Effect of Aloe barbadensis Mill. Formulation on Letrozole induced polycystic ovarian syndrome rat model. J Ayurveda Integr Med [Internet]. 2010;1(4):273–9. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21731374/#:~:text=Aloe vera gel formulation exerts,components present in the extract. 

11. Kakadia N, Patel P, Deshpande S, Shah G. Effect of Vitex negundo L. seeds in letrozole induced polycystic ovarian syndrome. J Tradit Complement Med [Internet]. 2019;9(4):336–45. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtcme.2018.03.001 

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes. 

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What Is PCOD? Know It’s Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

PCOD stands for Poly Cystic Ovary Disease. The condition affects the ovaries in women by causing cysts. This leads to a hormonal imbalance with the body producing more male hormones than needed. The hormonal imbalance leads to problems in menstruation and fertility apart from other issues. Women with PCOS may have irregular or prolonged menstrual cycles, as well as high levels of the male hormone androgen. The ovaries may produce a large number of tiny collections of fluid (follicles) and fail to release eggs on a regular basis. If left untreated, PCOD can cause more serious problems like heart disease and diabetes. Read on to find all you need to know about PCOD Problems.

PCOD Causes

In PCOD, many small sacs fill up with fluid inside the ovaries. Each of these contains an immature egg that never triggers ovulation. The absence of ovulation leads to a hormonal imbalance with a high release of male hormones. Research hasn’t pointed out the exact reasons why PCOD problems happen. However, certain factors contribute to it. They are:

Did You Know

PCOD Symptoms

PCOS signs and symptoms usually appear around the time of puberty’s first menstrual period. PCOS can develop later in life, for example, as a result of significant weight gain. Many women do not realize that they are suffering from PCOD. There are certain common symptoms of PCOD problems:

Unwanted hair on face, neck and other body parts is a symptom of hormonal derrangemts as in PCOD. People often opt for hair removal sessions but do not reach out to doctors. Plz, consult your endocrinologist and gynecologist if you notice signs of unwanted excessive facial and body hair

Dr. Arpit Verma, MBBS, MD

Complications due to PCOD

PCOD causes infertility as it reduces the frequency of ovulation in the body.

PCOD causes insulin resistance in the body leading to diabetes.

PCOD increases the blood pressure in the body leading to vulnerability towards heart problems.

Because there is delayed ovulation, the body experiences a thickening of the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus. This increases the odds of getting endometrial cancer.

Many women suffer from depression due to hormonal imbalance in the body.

evidence is accumulated on women with PCOS potentially being at high risk for CNS and cardiovascular disease. Many of these women have extremely high levels of serum lipoprotein, blood glucose, and cholesterol, which also increase the risk of insulin resistance. Women with PCOS may also be at high risk for endometrial cancer.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Treatment

PCOD has yet to be identified as a disease with a cure. You may, however, manage the illness with correct treatment and lifestyle changes. Ultrasound and blood tests help to diagnose PCOD.

PCOD can be treated with the correct lifestyle and medications. Consult your gynaecologist if you feel you may have PCOD.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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Confused Between PCOD vs PCOS? Know The Difference!

  

PCOD vs PCOS – Are they the same?  Many women use both, PCOD (Poly Cystic Ovarian Disease) and PCOS (Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome) interchangeably when both are very different conditions. While both the conditions are related to the ovaries and both cause hormonal disturbances, there are many significant differences.

All women have two ovaries that release an egg alternately every month. These ovaries also produce female hormones that are responsible for many things like fertility, period schedule, facial hair, etc. apart from these they also produce androgens or male hormones but in very minute quantities.

What is PCOD

PCOD is a condition in which the ovaries contain many immature or partially mature eggs. They, eventually, turn into cysts. Junk food, being overweight, stress and hormonal disturbances give birth to this condition.   Common symptoms of PCOD are irregular periods, abdominal weight gain, infertility and male pattern hair loss. The ovaries usually become enlarged in this problem and secrete large amounts of androgens that cause havoc with the woman’s fertility and her body.

What is PCOS

PCOS is a metabolic disorder that is more severe than PCOD. In this condition, the ovaries produce a higher quantity of the male hormone and this leads to the formation of more than ten follicular cysts in the ovary every month. This stops the release of the egg leading to anovulation. Symptoms include hair loss, obesity and infertility.

PCOD vs PCOS – How Are They Different?

  1. PCOS is a serious condition. PCOD is not considered a disease as with the correct diet and exercise schedule, the situation improves. PCOS is a metabolic disorder.
  2. PCOD is more common. Almost a third of the women around the world suffer from PCOD. PCOS has a lower number of patients.
  3. PCOS has serious complications. Women who suffer from PCOS are at risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure cardiac-vascular issues, obesity and even endometrial cancer.
  4. PCOS is visible early in life. Girls who suffer from PCOS show symptoms of the disease since their teenage years. Acne, excessive hair growth and weight gain are apparent from a younger age due to metabolic disturbances.
  5. Those with PCOD don’t have significant fertility issues. With a bit of medical help, they conceive successfully. Women who suffer from PCOS, on the other hand, struggle with infertility. They even have higher rates of miscarriages.
  6. Those with PCOD can still ovulate regularly. The women who have PCOD may have similar symptoms as PCOS, but they retain the ability to ovulate periodically and thus, can conceive successfully. However, those with PCOS do not ovulate due to a severe hormonal imbalance that disturbs the process of ovulation.

PCOD vs PCOS – Diet

While neither PCOD nor PCOS can be directly caused due to a particular food, a healthy diet goes a long way to preventing or easing the symptoms of both. PCOS has been highly linked to obesity and being overweight, additionally, it is harder to lose weight with these conditions.  

Since PCOS is closely tied to insulin resistance, you should avoid a diet rich in starch and sugar and cut highly refined carbs from your diet. Add high-fibre foods and veggies as well as nuts and olive oil, this can help you feel full while reducing weight.

Try limiting your intake of processed flour bread, sugary desserts and drinks and avoid corn syrup sweetened goods too. You may not experience any improvement in symptoms unless you also pair your diet changes with increased daily exercise and use stress-reduction techniques.  

The PCOD vs PCOS symptoms may be similar and harder to distinguish unless you stop and think about it. The dietary changes required are also similar. PCOD and PCOS both will require dietary and lifestyle changes to help you with your recovery.

In both cases, i.e., PCOD vs PCOS,   losing weight, eating a healthy diet that is free of processed and junk food and following regular exercise, the schedule has shown tremendous improvements. It is imperative to catch the disease as soon as possible to control the damage with proper lifestyle changes and medications. If you have irregular periods, acne or excessive facial hair growth, you need to get yourself checked.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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All You Need To Know About Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)!

It’s not just about your periods. Yes, irregular and absent periods are a classic hallmark feature of PCOS but it’s only one part of the condition. PCOS is a syndrome. This means it easily overlaps and intersects with other areas of the body. While PCOS does cause reproductive problems and can affect ovulation, it’s also associated with metabolic issues. Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is highly crucial.  

hjslamnglsvle You May Be At Risk for Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Metformin and oral contraceptive pills are two of the most common medications used to treat PCOS. What many don’t realize is that both medications can interfere with the absorption of vitamin B12.A deficiency of vitamin B12 is serious, as it may result in permanent neurological and nerve damage. Common symptoms in those with a vitamin B12 deficiency include mood changes, fatigue and numbness or tingling in their arms, fingers, legs and feet.Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome comes with its own complications but can be handled with care. If you take either of these medications, you should supplement vitamin B12. In addition, ask your doctor to check your vitamin B12 level, which can be done with a blood test, to see if your levels are normal.

You May Suffer From Mood Disorders

As if women with PCOS don’t have enough to deal with, they are also at a higher risk for mood disorders. Anxiety, depression and bipolar depression have been shown to be more common in women with PCOS. Mood disorders may be more prevalent in PCOS women due to hormonal imbalances. On the other hand, PCOS is an extremely frustrating condition. Dealing with the metabolic, reproductive and dermatological symptoms (weight gain, hair growth, hair loss) can have a significant impact on mood.

You Can Get Pregnant

Yes, PCOS is the main cause of ovulatory infertility. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t get pregnant. There have been new advancements in reproductive medicine over the past decade aimed to help women with PCOS conceive. One of these advancements is the use of Letrozole, which has been shown to be more effective than Clomid for ovulation induction in PCOS women and the dietary supplement Inositol, which can aid in improving egg quality and restore menstrual cycles.

Your Milk Supply Can Be Affected

It’s not conclusive but it has been suggested that women with PCOS could have more difficulty producing an adequate milk supply to breastfeed their children. Part of the reasons why this could be related to the hormone imbalance of higher androgen and insulin levels, which may interfere with milk production. One thing that is for sure is that diet and lifestyle are the primary treatment approaches for PCOS. A healthy eating plan, regular exercise, supplements, sufficient sleep and stress management all work together to manage your fertility and optimize your health. Not sure where to start or need help? Consult with a registered dietitian nutritionist who specializes in PCOS for understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
Disclaimer:  The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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