Friday, November 4, 2011

How to cope with PCOS


Women around the world have to take up multiple roles, which means they not only have to juggle home and work, but also come out with flying colours! The working woman thus ends up stressed, oblivious to the fact that it can have adverse effects on her health.
Stress nowadays can lead to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or PCOS, which arises due to hormonal imbalance in a woman’s body. The same can cause changes in the menstrual cycle, loss of hair on the head, chronic acne apart from other issues. But it is surely not the end of the world. PCOS can be cured if treated and a healthy lifestyle can play a big role in getting rid of it. Here's how to deal with PCOS.
Don’t hit the panic button yet: Stress can often lead to outbursts which just worsen the situation. Chronic stress is also responsible for depression which leads to excessive eating resulting in fast weight gain. Try staying calm or join a yoga class to relax your mind.
Consult a doctor: Once diagnosed, the first thing that comes to a woman’s mind is whether she can become pregnant or not. Visiting a gynaecologist is the best thing to do here; also a dermatologist who can help you deal with hair loss, acne et al. Speak to your gynaecologist and start monitoring your ovulation cycle.
Communicate with your partner: Pregnancy and child birth are sensitive issues in a relationship. Therefore speak to your partner at the earliest. Before he bombards you with questions, educate yourself about the condition. Be honest about health complications, but  assure him that with medication, pregnancy is very much possible.
Start exercising: One of the major symptoms of PCOS is excessive weight gain in a very short span of time. Set goals for yourself and start hitting the gym regularly. Losing that flab can be a strenuous and long-term activity, but eating right and staying committed to a definite weight loss programme can work wonders for you.
Kick the butt: If you are a smoker, your monthly cycle could be affected by the birth control pills your doctor might prescribe during treatment. PCOS can also lead to heart disease in future which gets aggravated by smoking. Kick the butt today!  
Join some activity: Hair loss and chronic acne can sometimes pull you down and lead to depression. Low self-esteem and lack of confidence are common problems faced by women suffering from PCOS. Do something exciting or join a hobby class to distract yourself. Try to find happiness by doing what you love the most.
Find support in friends: Reports suggest that a large number of women have been diagnosed with PCOS in the last couple of years. High chances it may mean that your friend is suffering from the same. Confide in her instead of bearing all the stress yourself.
Take rest: You are the boss at work and also at home; so what? You do deserve to take it easy and put your feet up at times. Plan a holiday and switch off your cell phone during the trip. Try and get yourself at least seven hours of sleep daily.