Wellness Tuesday: The Weight Loss Catch 22
As a teenager, I dealt with issues that resulted from PCOS {polycystic ovary syndrome}. After gaining the extra poundage, these issues have only been magnetized.
Having PCOS feels like a catch 22. Why? Well, losing weight is even hard because of PCOS, yet I know I have to get healthy.
So what is PCOS? PCOS is a problem that occurs when a woman’s hormones are out of balance. Women that suffer from PCOS often have irregular periods and find it difficult to conceive.
PCOS is a disorder that is not often discussed, but according to WebMD, one out of fifteen women are affected. The majority of women with PCOS have small cysts on their ovaries. These cysts are not harmful; however they do lead to hormone imbalances. In essence, when a woman ovulates the ovary does not make all of the hormones necessary for the egg to fully mature. Fluid can build up and cysts can grow that lead to a lack of ovulation.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a health problem that can affect a woman’s:
- Menstrual cycle
- Ability to have children
- Hormones
- Heart
- Blood vessels
- Appearance
With PCOS, women typically have:
- High levels of androgens or male hormones, though females also make them.
- Missed or irregular periods (monthly bleeding)
- Many small cysts (sists) (fluid-filled sacs) in their ovaries
Do you or someone you know have PCOS?
Next week we’ll discuss some of the symptoms of PCOS.