New Delhi: 

For most women diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), the first piece of advice they receive is often: “Just lose some weight.” While the suggestion isn’t entirely off the mark, it only acknowledges one symptom of the complex hormonal condition. The widespread hormonal disorder, which affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, is accompanied by several reproductive, metabolic, and psychological issues. Yes, managing weight can help. But to truly support a woman with PCOS, we need to look beyond the weighing scale. To understand it, we first need to ask: What leads to PCOS? Dr Rohani Nayak, Fertility Specialist, Birla Fertility & IVF, Bhubaneswar, answered the same.

The connection between weight and PCOS It might also be surprising to learn that not all women who suffer from PCOS gain weight. A significant number of women are affected by ‘lean PCOS’. These women do not carry excess weight but still show all the classic signs of PCOS. So, the advice to “just lose the weight” does not apply to them. They need to make specific dietary changes and regularly take hormone-regulating medications to manage the symptoms.

Weight gain is also a key symptom of the hormonal condition. And in some cases, losing even 5% of weight can bring the androgen level back to the normal range, thereby improving overall symptoms. However, weight loss does not eliminate the root cause of PCOS. Moreover, losing weight for those battling PCOS is not as easy it seems. Hormonal imbalance and insulin resistance can affect metabolism and fat storage. Additionally, PCOS can disrupt appetite regulation and lead to sleep disturbances, making it challenging to shed kilos.

Understanding PCOS

PCOS is driven by a combination of insulin resistance, hormone imbalances, genetics, and environmental factors. Usually, they have high androgen (male hormones) and a significantly low oestrogen level. The hormonal changes result in irregular menstrual periods, acne, unwanted hair growth, and, in 70-80% of women, infertility.

With or without weight gain, fertility remains a major concern for most women diagnosed with PCOS. Natural conception is not always possible due to an irregular menstrual cycle. Hence, women need to take regular medication such as oral contraceptives and others to regulate their menstrual cycle and improve fertility when trying to conceive. In more severe cases, assisted reproductive techniques like IVF may become necessary. Weight management may improve the odds, but it does not guarantee pregnancy.

What do women with PCOS need?

Effective PCOS management requires a holistic approach, involving:

Medical support to correct hormonal imbalances

Personalised diet and lifestyle strategies

Mental health counselling

Fertility planning and, if necessary, ART options

PCOS is a lifelong condition that affects every woman differently. Addressing only one part of it can leave the rest of the puzzle unsolved. What’s needed instead is a complete, compassionate, and personalised approach to care.

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