Although there are common links between PCOS and autoimmune diseases, it is not currently categorized as an autoimmune disease. It is considered an endocrinopathy or disease of the endocrine system.
In PCOS low level of progesterone overstimulates immune system that leads to production of autoantibodies and therefore it can be labeled as an autoimmune disorder [61].
PCOS has strong ties to conditions that put people at higher risk for severe COVID-19, like obesity, diabetes and heart disease. Learn more about comorbidities.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common hormonal disorder in females of reproductive age. It is characterized by two or more of the following: irregular menstrual periods, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries.
What causes the symptoms of PCOS? Most of the symptoms of PCOS are caused by higher-than-normal levels of certain hormones, called androgens. The ovaries produce hormones, which are chemicals that control functions in the body.
PCOS is a very common condition in women of childbearing age. In some cases, it can lead to serious health issues if not treated. Ovulation happens when a mature egg is released from an ovary. This happens so it can be fertilized by a male sperm.
The elimination of immune system balance (homeostasis) that's associated with PCOS may lead to a weakening of immune responses.
Additionally, hormonal imbalance is a key PCOS feature. It's possible that excess androgens and insulin resistance are affecting the immune system's ability to fight off viral infections like COVID-19.
PCOS belly refers to the abdominal fat causing an increased waist-to-hip ratio, PCOS Belly will look like an apple-shaped belly rather than a pear-shaped belly. One of the most common symptoms of PCOS is weight gain, particularly around the abdominal area.
PCOS cases also reported having “two or more pneumonias”, “recurrent otitis in adulthood”, “other health-endangering recurrent infections”, and “common colds”, and being “more susceptible to infections than other people”.
Recent studies have shown that women who were diagnosed as having PCOS 30 years ago have a completely normal life expectancy. An inspection of more than 700 death certificates from women with PCOS has shown that there is no excess risk of cancer in any organ or of heart disease.
Some research suggests that the hormone imbalance that occurs with PCOS can overstimulate the immune system, leading to lupus or other autoimmune disorders. Although there is no cure for PCOS or lupus, treatments are available to help manage these conditions and their symptoms.
Can I Have a Flat Stomach with PCOS? As mentioned earlier, the PCOS belly shape is usually large and bloated but can also be small. This means you can have a flat stomach and still have PCOS, so watch out for other symptoms. Those with a big belly can gain a flat tummy through dietary and lifestyle changes.
Although a majority of cases with PCOS are obese/overweight, a small but significant proportion of patients present with normal body mass index (BMI; ≤25 kg/M2) that makes diagnostic work up and therapeutic approach more difficult. These cases are termed as lean PCOS.
Often, the skin can be a window to what is occurring inside your body. For women with polycystic ovarian syndrome, or PCOS, this this may mean acne, hair loss, excessive facial or body hair growth, dark patches on the skin, or any combination of these issues.
PCOS can cause missed or irregular menstrual periods, excess hair growth, acne, infertility, and weight gain. Women with PCOS may be at higher risk for type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart problems, and endometrial cancer.
Angela Grassi, MS, RDN of the PCOS Nutrition Center and author of The PCOS Workbook, recommends, “To maximize your immune health, eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fats.
Many women with PCOS find that their menstrual cycles become more regular as they get closer to menopause. However, their PCOS hormonal imbalance does not change with age, so they may continue to have symptoms of PCOS.
Often misdiagnosed and poorly understood, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a lifelong disorder that can be managed with appropriate medical care.
PCOS often runs in families. Up to 70 percent of daughters of women with PCOS also develop it, but genetic variation doesn't fully explain the high incidence within families—some genome-wide association studies of PCOS susceptibility reckon genetics explains less than 10 percent of the condition's heritability.
Myth #2: If You Lose Weight, You Can Get Rid of PCOS
Unfortunately, there is no cure for PCOS, but overweight and obese women can help balance their hormone levels by losing weight. Otherwise, treatment is aimed at managing symptoms. A wide range of treatment options can help prevent any potential problems.
Lea Michele
The Glee star has opened up about being diagnosed with PCOS after experiencing severe acne and fluctuating weight. “The side effects [of PCOS] can be brutal — like weight gain and bad skin,” Lea shared with Health. “I went to a great doctor, and the minute she looked at me, she was like, 'Oh, you have PCOS.