PCOS is a metabolic, endocrine, and reproductive disorder affecting 10-15% of women (roughly 5 million in the U.S.) As many as 70% of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) go undiagnosed. It is important for PCOS knowledge to become more widespread so that women can get diagnosed so they can treat and prevent physical and mental health concerns. These include increased susceptibility to comorbidities such as hypertension, metabolic syndrome (MS), and type 2 diabetes as well as eating disorders, anxiety, and depression.
PCOS is characterized by 2 or more of the following 3 criteria:
1.hyperandrogenism (high levels of androgens, the male sex hormone)
2.polycystic ovaries on ultrasound
3.delayed ovulation or menstrual cycles (anovulation)
Symptoms include:
excess hair growth/hair loss/acne/weight gain/irregular periods
References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Endocrine Reviews, 33(6), 981–1030
Endocrine Reviews, 24(5), 633–667
Journal of Endocrinological Investigation, 40(1 )
BOOK: The Pcos workbook: your guide to complete physical and emotional health
BOOK: 8 Steps to reverse your Pcos: a proven program to reset your hormones, repair your metabolism and restore your fertility
BOOK: Wardlaw's contemporary nutrition: a functional approach
PODCAST: The Fill Your Cup Podcast / 095: When You Have PCOS and Want To Balance Your Hormones Without Dieting - Sam Abbott
People to Follow on IG: @pcos.nutritionist
Find me on IG:@francesca.meffert.co
