Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Dietary Regulation

Written by He Bing
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 16, 2024
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Diet is one of the crucial aspects of managing and treating patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The importance of diet is not only reflected in weight reduction and maintenance, but it also greatly aids in the control of insulin levels. Many patients also suffer from insulin resistance, causing the pancreas to secrete more insulin to function effectively. Patients with PCOS can increase their consumption of green leafy vegetables, fruits, colorful and white vegetables, organic and grass-fed meats, as well as healthy fats.

Other Voices

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Written by Shen Li Wen
Obstetrics and Gynecology
54sec home-news-image

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a disease.

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a type of endocrine disorder, and its exact cause is unclear, but it might be closely related to genetic and environmental factors. Generally, most women start to show symptoms during puberty. Blood tests for six hormone levels commonly indicate elevated androgen levels, or an imbalance in the ratio of luteinizing hormone to follicle-stimulating hormone. Persistent anovulation can be observed through ultrasound monitoring or basal body temperature tracking. The ovaries may display multiple cystic changes, which are actually anovulatory follicles. Some women may also experience insulin resistance and obesity. This condition can severely impact a woman’s menstrual cycle and normal fertility, as prolonged estrogen stimulation may also lead to endometrial cancer.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
1min 2sec home-news-image

What should I do if I don't get my period due to polycystic ovary syndrome?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a metabolic disease and a lifelong condition that cannot be cured. The main symptom is irregular menstruation, which can manifest as infrequent menstrual periods or absence of menstruation. If menstruation does not occur for more than two months, it is essential to take oral progestogens, such as progesterone or dydrogesterone, for 12 days. After stopping the medication, menstruation should resume. This is mainly to protect the endometrium, as not menstruating for an extended period prevents it from shedding. Under the influence of unopposed estrogen, there might be excessive proliferation, leading to precancerous changes in the endometrial lining and potentially developing into endometrial cancer over time. Therefore, it is crucial to have a menstrual period at least every two months to protect the endometrium. (Medication should be taken under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
1min 4sec home-news-image

What foods are good to eat for polycystic ovary syndrome?

Patients with polycystic ovary syndrome must pay attention to their diet, as the characteristics of this disease include amenorrhea, obesity, infertility, acne, and hirsutism. Due to obesity, one should avoid eating large portions of meat and food that is high in fat and calories. Additionally, patients should check their fasting blood glucose and insulin levels, as the majority of these patients tend to have high blood sugar and insulin resistance. At this time, foods high in starch should be avoided. Dietarily, it is generally advisable to eat more green vegetables, fruits, and beans or bean products. Bean products contain estrogens which can counteract the high testosterone levels in polycystic ovary syndrome. Therefore, dietary attention is crucial. Besides focusing on diet, patients should also lose weight and reduce body weight through exercise, which helps in the recovery from the disease.

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Written by Liu Wei Jie
Obstetrics
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Is the chance of getting pregnant with polycystic ovary syndrome high?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) manifests as absent or irregular menstrual periods, and is also associated with obesity, hirsutism, insulin metabolism disorders, as well as elevated blood sugar and cholesterol levels. The mechanism behind the development of PCOS is unclear but may be related to genetic factors, diet, and lack of exercise. Due to the irregular menstrual cycles, which stem from anovulation (lack of ovulation), the likelihood of pregnancy decreases. It is challenging to calculate the specific probability of pregnancy, but overall, the chances of becoming pregnant with PCOS are very low, although there is still a possibility. Treatment for PCOS generally starts with lifestyle changes, such as avoiding staying up late and refraining from eating sweets. Weight management is also crucial; weight gain is recommended for those who are underweight, whereas weight loss is advised for those who are overweight, along with appropriate exercise.

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Written by He Bing
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How long does it take to cure polycystic ovary syndrome?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), like hypertension and diabetes, is a chronic disease that can be managed but not cured. The clinical manifestations of PCOS are diverse and vary from person to person. Some people have mild symptoms, such as slightly irregular menstruation without complete anovulation, which still allows for the possibility of natural conception. Additionally, if an individual pays close attention to adjusting their lifestyle and maintains a lean physique, the long-term health impact can be relatively minor. This situation cannot be described as self-healing or cured, but the impact of the disease is indeed not significant. Although PCOS cannot currently be completely cured, timely diagnosis and treatment of symptoms, along with consistent long-term management, can still make pregnancy and childbirth possible.