Polycystic ovary syndrome affects around one in 10 women and the symptoms don’t always ease during menopause, but here’s how to cope…
It’s a common misconception that polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, only impacts people of a reproductive age and disappears with menopause. However, while it’s likely sufferers will become aware of the symptoms in their late teens and early 20s, it’s a lifelong condition that needs to be managed, even after you’re no longer fertile.
However, there’s lots you can do to help you manage the symptoms and improve your quality of life when experiencing this hormone imbalance during perimenopause and beyond.
Switch up your diet
Some people with PCOS struggle to produce insulin, whereas others have insulin resistance. Both of these conditions result in high blood sugar levels. A healthy, anti-inflammatory diet can boost hormone production and help regulate blood sugar levels.
Exercise appropriately
Exercise has been shown to ease both menopause-related and PCOS symptoms. Ageing people should be aware of their greater risk for bone fractures due to lower oestrogen levels. For this reason, weight-bearing exercises like brisk walking, yoga and Pilates, are all recommended. Other forms of exercise, like cycling and swimming, are also great.
Sort out your sleep
Both PCOS and perimenopause can affect sleep. To improve sleep, you should try going to bed and getting up at regular times, keep electronic devices outside the bedroom and have the room as quiet and dark as possible, with a comfortable temperature.
• From Dr Thom Phillips, clinical director at Forth (forthwithlife.co.uk)