Women with PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) are often insulin resistant. Their bodies can make insulin but cannot use it effectively, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes, especially if they are overweight, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). can develop serious health problems, and more than half of them can develop type 2 diabetes by age 40. It also increases androgen levels. (male hormone that women also have) can interfere with the release of eggs (ovulation), causing irregular menstruation, acne, thinning hair on the scalp, and excess hair growth on the face and body. Endocrinology, Wockhardt Hospital, Mira Road Dr. Harsh Parekh, MD and Diabetologist, explains how one of the most common women’s health issues affects metabolism and physical function.
Can PCOS cause early onset of diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes can develop as a result of an unfavorable response of the endocrine system caused by insulin resistance. Type 2 diabetes develops when the body’s cells begin to reject insulin, produce too much insulin, or both. Physical activity and a healthy diet may generally prevent or control type 2 diabetes. However, evidence indicates that PCOS is an important independent risk factor for developing diabetes. In fact, a woman who develops her PCOS in young adulthood is more likely to develop diabetes and possibly heart problems later in life.
how does this happen?
Women with PCOS frequently develop insulin resistance and are at increased risk of type 2 diabetes even when their bodies are able to produce insulin. It also has high levels of androgens, female hormones that inhibit ovulation and can lead to irregular menstruation, acne, thinning hair on the scalp, and excessive hair growth on the face and body.
PCOS can also cause gestational diabetes, which occurs when a woman experiences a spike in blood sugar during pregnancy. Why does this happen?
PCOS is a syndrome that interferes with ovulation and can cause hormonal abnormalities. Women with PCOS frequently experience fertility problems, but it is not impossible to become pregnant. A gestational diabetes test may be performed on a PCOS-positive pregnant woman earlier than her standard 24-28 weeks.
What is your treatment protocol?
Your doctor may recommend more tests if PCOS has been identified as the cause of your condition.
• Regular assessment of cholesterol and triglyceride levels, glucose tolerance and blood pressure
• Analysis of depression and anxiety
• Obstructive sleep apnea screening
The main goal of PCOS treatment is to manage your concerns. This may include obesity, hirsutism, acne, or infertility. Depending on your condition, you may need medication or lifestyle adjustments.
Will treating one condition cure the other condition?
The relationship between type 1 and PCOS is more obvious when compared to type 2. Type 1 appears to increase the risk of women with this condition. One of her four women with type 1 will eventually develop her PCOS. Metformin is a common diabetes drug, but some medical professionals use it to treat PCOS. It lowers blood sugar levels and helps the body use insulin. It also helps with weight loss and relieves her PCOS symptoms, including irregular ovulation.
What is your advice for people with PCOS and diabetes?
Talk to your doctor if you have irregular periods, are having trouble getting pregnant, or have excessive acne or hair growth. Ask about getting tested for type 2 diabetes and how to manage the condition. Making adjustments such as weight loss and increased physical activity can reduce the chance of developing type 2 diabetes, improve diabetes management, and avoid or postpone other health problems.
In addition, there are medications that can reduce acne and hair growth while aiding ovulation. Always discuss all treatment options with your healthcare professional.
