TW: discussion of weight (specific numbers) and weight loss
My Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) diagnosis was a lightbulb moment. My periods had rarely been more than a bi-annual affair so I knew something wasn’t right. It was the rapid weight gain that made me seek medical help. I went from a size 10 to an 18/20 in five years. Then there was the constant physical and mental exhaustion that I felt from the moment I woke up.
A recent documentary by the BBC (Diagnosis Detectives) features a young woman called Hayley who is diagnosed with PCOS after a similar struggle with weight gain, chronic fatigue, and hair loss. A relentless riposte of ‘you’re not ill, you’re just lazy’ chips away at Hayley’s confidence, despite her gladiatorial effort to be believed. Yet, this is not a rare condition. It affects millions of women across the world.
This is why it is so important to increase awareness of a condition that is still both misunderstood and under-diagnosed.
PCOS affects one in 10 women in the UK, although many women are thought to be living without an official diagnosis.
What is PCOS?
PCOS affects one in 10 women in the UK, although many more are thought to be living without an official diagnosis. The condition presents with a set of symptoms associated with elevated male hormones (androgens). These can include irregular periods, acne, excess facial hair and hair loss, as well as unexplained weight gain, insulin resistance, and increased appetite.
PCOS is an endocrine disorder that can cause severe hormone imbalances. While it does affect the reproductive system, it is just one part of a complex condition. The schoolboy squeamishness of male doctors can sometimes render conversations about ‘women’s issues’ more uncomfortable than necessary, as Neve Gordon-Farleigh writes. But there is another reason why women with suspected PCOS may be reluctant to see the doctor.
Weight-gain and PCOS
Studies show that a large number of women with the condition are clinically overweight (although PCOS can affect women of any size). This is because we produce too much insulin and because the body isn’t using it effectively it gets turned into high levels of sugar and fat, according to endocrinologist, Adam Balen.
‘Fat shaming’ in the NHS has been an ongoing issue. Studies show that doctors spend less time with overweight patients in the exam room, and feel justified to address excess weight ‘every chance they get’. Is it any wonder that some women would sooner avoid the doctor’s office?
I weighed 19 stone at my heaviest, and every trip to the doctor ended with advice that losing weight would make every ache and pain magically disappear. I am now 9st 2lb. It took a radical lifestyle overhaul and a gradual shift in mindset over 8 years. It was worth the effort, but my PCOS hasn’t gone away. Every day is a fresh battle to manage symptoms and control cravings, and medication plays a part in this.
It’s not as simple as eat less – move more
The desire to change has to come from within. Finger-pointing and unsolicited remarks are often demoralising and de-motivating. We all know to eat less and move more. For anyone with underlying health conditions, this advice is far too simplistic; without a diagnosis and proper clinical treatment, it is going to be an uphill struggle. Symptoms and concerns need to be taken seriously.
It starts by improving awareness
My diagnosis equipped me to take the right steps. With medication and lifestyle changes, I was able to manage my condition. The confirmation that my problems weren’t ‘all in my head’ was reassuring.
What can I do if I think I have PCOS?
Do your research.
Write down your symptoms, print out a fact sheet, and explain to the doctor why you want to be tested. If you can’t see a doctor straight away, keep a diary of your symptoms as this will be helpful for your appointment. The official UK PCOS charity and has lots of information about Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, and they also have a very active Facebook support group.
Prepare to change your diet.
A diet rich in whole foods is helpful for managing PCOS. A switch from eating large meals to eating ‘little and often’ can help to stabilise blood sugar levels and reduce food cravings and mood swings. This is a really helpful blog that explains the best and worst foods to eat for PCOS.
Exercise regularly.
It doesn’t need to be intense. Even a small increase in activity can boost mental health, improve your insulin sensitivity, reduce blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels, according to PCOS fitness specialist, Sharon Newson.
Manage stress.
There is a link between PCOS and anxiety/depression. Stress increases cortisol production, which leads to inflammation and weight gain. It’s important to find ways to manage anxiety levels and seek help from a mental health professional if necessary.
Lucinda Herbert
Featured Image courtesy of Andrew Tanglao via Unsplash. Image license found here. No changes were made to this image.