The typical PCOS body shape is often an "apple shape", characterized by weight gain and firm, hard fat accumulation around the midsection (abdominal/visceral fat), rather than hips and thighs (pear shape). This is due to insulin resistance and higher androgen levels, leading to fat storage like in men, but it's crucial to note that people with PCOS can also be lean, and symptoms vary widely.
It's a common concern for many women with PCOS. “Having PCOS can lead to what we call an 'apple shape,' where you carry excess weight around your belly even when the rest of your body is lean,” Dr. Thigpen shares.
Abnormal hair growth: You may grow excess facial hair or experience heavy hair growth on your arms, chest and abdomen (hirsutism). This affects up to 70% of people with PCOS. Acne: PCOS can cause acne, especially on your back, chest and face. This acne may continue past your teenage years and may be difficult to treat.
Those affected by PCOS have a variety of clinical findings, which can affect their quality of life. Evidence suggests that polycystic ovarian syndrome and migraines are linked. However, the relationship between polycystic ovary syndrome and other types of headaches and their severity has not been studied.
As mentioned earlier, a PCOS belly shape differs from other weight gain types. It's usually large and bloated but can also be small and round, depending on genes and other factors. It involves visceral fat accumulation in the lower abdomen and typically feels hard to touch.
Hormones, especially insulin and cortisol, can influence where fat is stored in the body. High levels of stress may increase cortisol, which contributes to fat accumulation in the abdomen and potentially the pubic area. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also cause fat to concentrate in this region.
No, Ozempic isn't FDA approved to treat PCOS. But it can be prescribed off-label for PCOS treatment.
Many women with PCOS report lower self-esteem and a more negative self-image compared to healthy individuals, which is closely linked to higher rates of depression and psychological distress ( Lee & Dokras, 2020).
Common symptoms of PCOS include:
Exhaustion That Doesn't Go Away
Many people with PCOS describe a constant fatigue that does not improve with rest. Even after a full night of sleep, energy levels remain low and concentration can feel difficult.
As with many health conditions, adopting healthier lifestyles can improve the symptoms of PCOS. There is good evidence to support adding in whole plant-based foods, such as those suggested on a Mediterranean diet plan or DASH diet. These diets balance fiber-rich foods, healthy fats and foods rich in antioxidants.
Diagnostic Tests
To receive a diagnosis of PCOS, you must meet two of the following criteria: irregular ovulation, which is usually indicated by an irregular menstrual cycle or a lack of a cycle. signs of increased androgen levels or a blood test confirming you have increased levels. multiple small cysts on the ovaries.
A medicine called clomifene may be the first treatment recommended for women with PCOS who are trying to get pregnant. Clomifene encourages the monthly release of an egg from the ovaries (ovulation). If clomifene is unsuccessful in encouraging ovulation, another medicine called metformin may be recommended.
In women, excess androgens can inhibit breast growth and lead to conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which may cause smaller breast size due to hormonal imbalances.
Physical Appearance and Changes:
Breasts may appear elongated. Narrow base and high placement on the chest. The areola might be larger and more prominent. Characteristics are consistent with tubular breasts, not specifically altered by PCOS.
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism, improving insulin sensitivity, decreasing insulin resistance and suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines. Inositol lowers insulin resistance, improves reproductive function, improves oocyte quality and restores ovulation in patients with PCOS.
What are possible complications of PCOS? Women with PCOS are more likely to develop certain serious health problems. These include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, problems with the heart and blood vessels, and uterine cancer. Women with PCOS often have problems with their ability to get pregnant (fertility).
To help ease the effects of PCOS , try to:
PCOS can be difficult to diagnose because some of its symptoms have a variety of potential causes. For example, heavy menstrual bleeding could be caused by a range of conditions, such as uterine fibroids, polyps, bleeding disorders, certain medications, or pelvic inflammatory disease, in addition to PCOS.
Emotional abuse was significantly associated with PCOS, showing robust effects. Physical abuse was also significantly associated with PCOS.
PCOS is a diagnosis of exclusion and is a multiorgan disease affecting most endocrine organs including ovaries, adrenals, pituitary, fat cells, and endocrine pancreas. The manifestations of PCOS are diverse, and up to 50% patients are normal weight.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) appears to be an ancient disorder, which has persisted in human evolution despite reduced fecundity because of the benefits to affected women such as greater sturdiness and improved energy utilization, a rearing advantage for their children and kin, and a reduction in the risk of ...
Final Takeaways
Metformin remains the go-to first-line medication for PCOS with insulin resistance, thanks to decades of research, safety, and accessibility. Ozempic may be preferable for those with significant weight loss goals or if metformin is not tolerated or effective.
In most cases, the NHS does not prescribe Metformin for PCOS. However, some doctors may prescribe it off-label in specific situations, particularly for women with insulin resistance or those trying to improve fertility.
Candidates for Ozempic treatment for weight loss include individuals who have a BMI of 30 or higher and those with a BMI of 27 or higher as well as at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes.