Weight gain is a common physical concern among individuals. Many, due to eating habits, heredity or lifestyle, and stress, start gaining weight. This unwanted weight gain brings lots of health issues like heart problems, restlessness, skin issues, and so on. In addition to these concerns, PCOS is one of the most common and unavoidable reproductive endocrine disorders in females. 

In order to learn about PCOS's relation with weight gain, we toured various female reproductive systems experts like Dr. Shilpa Bansal Agrawal, one of the gynecologists renowned for the best PCOS treatment in Mumbai. By incorporating insights taken from her, we have prepared this article, which is going to guide you on PCOS and weight connection along with effective PCOS treatment. So, go through this article carefully. 

Understanding of PCOS

PCOS stands for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, is an endocrine disorder of the female reproductive system. This disorder leads to the absence or immature release of ovum from the ovaries, which leads to female infertility. Before affecting the health of the uterus to conceive, PCOS impacts one’s overall appearance, and females may start experiencing:

1. Unwanted hair growth on the face or full body

2. Irregular menstrual cycle

3. Painful periods

4. Acne and pimples

5. Weight gain

Connection of PCOS and Weight Gain

Weight gain is one of the most common signs and causes of PCOS. Regarding this, research published in British Medical Bulletin states that there are 38 to 88% of females diagnosed with PCOS are overweight. 

The effects of obesity on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) might be mediated in various ways. Some of these include insulin resistance and the potential adverse effects of hyperinsulinemia.

According to the research, PCOS is also associated with weight increase and obesity. However, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also influence a person's ability to reduce weight and contribute to additional weight gain.

Whether or not PCOS directly contributes to weight gain is unclear. However, PCOS is associated with elevated insulin levels, which may lead to weight gain. Insulin resistance (when cells stop responding to insulin) can develop as a result.

How Does Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Induce Weight Gain?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by the disruption of hormonal equilibrium inside the body, often resulting in elevated insulin levels.

In cases when cellular responsiveness to insulin is impaired, the human body compensates by augmenting insulin production in order to maintain blood glucose homeostasis. However, this compensatory mechanism can lead to heightened inflammation and adipose tissue accumulation since surplus glucose is converted into fat by the liver. 

Elevated insulin levels have been found to induce excessive testosterone production in the ovaries. This phenomenon has the potential to increase body weight, particularly in the abdominal and upper regions. 

Insulin and PCOS Connection 

Insulin is a hormone that ordinarily aids in the conversion of carbohydrates and starches from food into energy, but PCOS makes it more difficult for the body to use insulin. High levels of insulin and sugar (glucose) in the blood might result from this disease, which is called insulin resistance.

High insulin levels enhance the development of male hormones called androgens. Body hair growth, acne, irregular periods, and increased appetite are all indications of elevated androgen levels. Male hormones produce water retention, which leads to belly fat. Men typically carry their weight there. Women with PCOS tend to have an apple form rather than a pear.

The fat around the abdomen is particularly harmful. That's because it's been linked to a host of health problems, most notably heart disease.

Causes of PCOS

The factors that lead to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome include: 

1. Insulin resistance

2. Low-grade inflammation

3. Heredity

4. Excess release of androgen. 

When someone has insulin resistance, their bodies are unable to properly use insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar. An increase in insulin can stimulate the production of androgens by the ovaries. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome frequently have chronic low-grade inflammation. 

Effects of PCOS on Weight Gain

Several conditions linked to obesity and insulin resistance are more common in women with PCOS. Some of them are as follows:

1. Diabetic ketoacidosis

2. Bad cholesterol levels

3. Elevated blood pressure

4. Obstructive sleep apnea

5. Infertility

6. Cancer of the endometrium

7. In many cases, heart disease is the result of these factors.

Diagnosis of PCOS

1. Abnormal Periods- This includes menstrual cycles that are shorter or longer than usual or fewer cycles overall. Some women have difficulty getting pregnant because of irregular or absent ovulation.

2. Out of Control Androgen Production- Increased testosterone levels in the body are linked to hirsutism, the development of unwanted face and body hair. Acne or hair thinning/pattern baldness can be particularly problematic for women with PCOS.

Treatment for PCOS

1. Lifestyle Change- Symptom management is the primary goal of PCOS treatment. This can manifest as hirsutism, infertility, acne, or weight gain, among other conditions. Lifestyle change includes:

   1. Take Less Refined Carbohydrates- Try eating a lot of fresh produce and nutritious grains. To maintain healthy blood sugar levels, stay away from processed and greasy foods. If you're having problems eating properly on your own, talk to your doctor or a nutritionist.

   2. Exercise-Maintain a regular exercise routine of at least 30 minutes every day, seven days a week.

   3. Control Cholesterol- Monitor your cholesterol and blood pressure readings under your doctor's supervision.

2. Medication- Women diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome are encouraged to adopt healthier habits. Maintaining a healthy weight can be accomplished by following a low-calorie, healthful diet and engaging in moderate activity. Losing weight may improve the efficacy of drugs used to treat PCOS symptoms and may even aid in resolving reproductive problems.

   1. Treatment with progestin for 10-14 days every 1-2 months is advised to control bleeding and prevent endometrial cancer. It is possible to treat acne, increased hair growth, and menstrual irregularities with birth control pills that include both estrogen and progestin. However, these drugs are only advised for women who have no current or planned pregnancy.

   2. Injections of gonadotropin hormone and oral estrogen medications for breast cancer prevention and insulin resistance treatment are suggested by the doctor if irregular ovulation is the problem. Pills or topical products that can help lessen the look are prescribed for excessive hair, laser hair removal, and severe acne breakouts.

3. Laparoscopic Ovarian Drilling- It is a surgical procedure used to treat anovulation caused by polycystic ovary syndrome. It is only suggested for women with PCOS who have tried medication and lifestyle changes and are still unable to conceive. An abdominal incision is made for the insertion of a laparoscope and surgical instruments to remove androgen-affected ovarian tissue. Ovarian cysts of a significant size are typically removed using laser probes or electrocautery.

Conclusion

To learn more about PCOS or correct this medical condition, consultation with a medical professional is recommended. One can schedule a consultation in this regard with Dr. Shilpa Bansal Agrawal is a leading gynaecologist in Andheri, Mumbai. Visit Harleys Cosmetic & Women Clinic. 

To determine which treatment is best for this condition, the doctor will perform a thorough examination. With hormone imbalances being the main cause of excess weight gain, adult acne, undesirable facial hair, depression, anxiety, and infertility in women—conditions that ultimately lead to PCOS/PCOD—the skilled gynaecologist is dedicated to helping women reverse these symptoms.

To learn more, visit Harleys Cosmetic & Women Clinic now!