One of the more frustrating symptoms of PCOS to deal with is an irregular menstrual cycle. Usually caused by a hormonal imbalance, it can leave women with unpredictable periods which occur anywhere between 21 and 35 days or more apart. As well as being difficult to plan for, irregular periods can make it harder to conceive if you’re trying to have a baby. Although ovulation might still be happening, the day may vary every month. 

But don't despair, there are ways to regulate your cycle and restore a sense of normality.

In this blog, we'll explore five effective strategies to regulate periods with PCOS, from maintaining a healthy weight to supplementing with myo-inositol. We'll also shed light on the role of insulin resistance and how a balanced diet can help your body use insulin more effectively, potentially easing PCOS symptoms and regulating menstruation. So, whether you're seeking to understand more about PCOS, looking for ways to manage your symptoms, or exploring treatment options, we've got you covered.

Stay tuned as we unravel the mysteries of PCOS and guide you towards a healthier, more balanced life.

Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex gynaecological condition that affects up to one in ten women worldwide. It's a disorder primarily driven by hormonal imbalance, leading to a myriad of symptoms that can significantly impact a woman's life.

Understanding PCOS is crucial, not just for those affected, but for everyone. It's a condition that intertwines with various aspects of health, from insulin levels to androgen levels, and it's essential to comprehend its intricacies to manage it effectively. Let's delve deeper into this condition and its implications.

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, often abbreviated as PCOS, is a gynecological condition that affects women between the reproductive age group. The main culprit behind this disorder is hormonal imbalance; the female body ends up overproducing androgens, a type of male hormone, and underproducing female hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.

This abnormal production of hormones results in disordered signals being sent from the pituitary gland, resulting in irregular ovulation. Instead of regular ovulation, women with PCOS tend to develop multiple cysts filled with fluid on their ovaries. These tiny sacs interfere with the normal menstrual cycle, leading to frequent missed or irregular periods.

Interestingly, PCOS is also linked with insulin resistance. While insulin is produced effectively in the body, the body fails to utilise it properly, leading to difficulty in weight loss. Despite its complications, PCOS can't be completely cured its symptoms can only be managed.

What Causes PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a notable gynecological condition characterised by a hormonal imbalance, primarily being high levels of androgens. Androgens, commonly known as male hormones, when in excessive amounts can trigger troubling symptoms. The elevated androgen level inhibits the ovarian release of eggs, often leading to irregular menstrual cycles or ovarian cysts.

While the exact cause of PCOS is still elusive, researchers have identified insulin resistance as a significant factor. In this state, the body experiences difficulty in processing insulin correctly, causing an upsurge in its level. The spike in insulin level then prompts the ovaries to produce more androgens. While not every individual with insulin resistance might have high glucose levels or diabetes, this condition could potentially lead to diabetes.

Additionally, there's a consensus among experts about the genetic predisposition to PCOS. Notably, offspring of biological parents with PCOS are more likely to develop this condition, suggesting that it can conceivably be inherited. However, it's crucial to note that obesity can amplify the severity of PCOS symptoms by escalating insulin levels. It's a complex condition with likely multiple causative factors at play.

Symptoms of PCOS

Missed or irregular periods, often characterised by abnormal menstruation where periods could be light, missed altogether, or include heavy bleeding.

Increased levels of androgens, like testosterone, can lead to symptoms like hirsutism. This embodies excessive hair growth in areas like the arms, chest, and the abdomen; up to 70% of people with polycystic ovary syndrome battle with this issue.

Acne or oily skin, particularly affecting the back, face, and chest region. This form of acne often extends beyond teenage years.

Obesity, with around 40% to 80% of individuals with PCOS finding it difficult to maintain a healthy weight.

Dark skin patches in areas like the neck, armpits, and under the breasts, termed as acanthosis nigricans.

Ovarian changes, where the ovaries might appear larger or contain many follicles visible on an ultrasound scan.

Skin tags or small pieces of extra skin typically found in the neck or armpits.

Hair thinning or patches of hair loss often experienced by people with PCOS.

Infertility, stemming from irregular or infrequent ovulation which can result in difficulties conceiving. Note, PCOS is the most common cause of fertility issues in people AFAB.

The possibility to have PCOS with no symptoms, where the individual might not be aware of the condition unless fertility issues arise or unexpected weight gain occurs.

PCOS and Irregular Periods

In this section, we will delve into the relationship between PCOS and irregular periods, exploring how this condition affects the menstrual cycle and the symptoms it can cause. Understanding this connection can provide valuable insights into managing this condition and maintaining pelvic health.

How Does PCOS Affect the Menstrual Cycle?

PCOS, also known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, has a notable impact on a woman's menstrual cycle and is often the culprit behind irregular periods. Hormonal imbalances, a distinguished trait of PCOS, disrupt the natural rhythm of the menstrual cycle.

In a typical cycle, a single follicle matures and is released by the ovaries each month, however, with PCOS, this process is thrown off balance. Instead of maturing and releasing, small follicles accumulate on the ovaries leading to the depiction of 'cysts'. This consistent phenomenon prevents the routine increase and subsequent fall of progesterone levels, causing irregular or even absent menstruation.

To understand the narrative of "PCOS and irregular periods", it's essential to consider the nuance of hormonal imbalance. Contrary to popular belief, PCOS does not mean an absence of menstruation but it does frequently lead to unpredictable and irregular periods. It's a complex pelvic health problem correlating closely with menstrual health.

Symptoms of PCOS With Irregular Periods

PCOS with irregular periods can present a multiplicity of symptoms, each dependent on the individual's overall health and hormonal balance. Some of the noteworthy symptoms include:

Unpredictable Menstrual Cycle: PCOS often results in an unpredictable menstrual cycle. Periods can occur anywhere between 21 and 35 days apart, making them hard to anticipate.

Absent Periods: In certain cases, women dealing with PCOS may experience no periods at all. This is a common sign of this health problem.

Heavy Periods: Another potential symptom could be unusually heavy periods. Since the uterine lining builds up for a longer time, when the woman does get a period, it can be heavier than normal.

These signs highlight the importance of seeking professional advice as soon as any changes in the regularity or normal pattern of your period are noticed. A pelvic health professional can guide you through the process and help manage the condition effectively.

Ways to Regulate Periods With PCOS

Living with PCOS can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing irregular periods. However, there are several strategies that can help regulate your cycle and alleviate symptoms. From maintaining a healthy weight to considering oral birth control, these methods can make a significant difference in your journey with PCOS.

Remember, it's not just about medication or drastic changes. It's about adopting a lifestyle that supports your health and wellbeing. Let's delve into these methods and understand how they can help regulate periods with PCOS.

Use a Tracking App

The first step to regulating periods when you suffer from polycystic ovaries is to start tracking them. You do this by making a note of when they start, how long they last and how heavy your flow is. There are plenty of great apps that are free to download which allow you to easily log your menstrual cycle, and any other symptoms you might be experiencing.

As well as allowing you to log your menstrual dates, these apps also provide useful predictions about when your most fertile days are, when your ovaries are going to release an egg and when your next period is due to arrive.

Establish an Exercise Routine

Establishing a regular exercise routine is a proven strategy for managing symptoms of PCOS and also to bring regularity to your cycle. It's not just about intensive workouts or gym sessions - it's about finding a form of physical activity that you relish and can sustain in your daily routine.

The goal isn't to exhaust yourself but to keep your body in motion as a sound routine to counteract PCOS symptoms. With proper management of physical activity, you can get your cycle under better regulation and fend off the disruptive impact PCOS can cast on your day-to-day life. Read our blog for more information on the best exercises for PCOS.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for the regulation of menstrual cycles, especially for those having PCOS. Studies suggest that a minor weight loss of 5% can significantly improve PCOS symptoms and overall health. A key point to keep in mind is that overweight women are more likely to experience irregular periods and intense symptoms. By contrast, women in the healthy BMI range of 18.5 to 24.9 generally face milder symptoms.

Keeping your weight under control doesn't only relate to your physical appearance, but it also helps to regulate hormones and insulin levels. This plays a key role in managing PCOS. You can check whether you fall within the healthy weight range by calculating your BMI, which measures your weight against your height. Establishing a regular exercise routine is an effective method to manage your weight and get your cycle back on track.

Positive changes in diet can complement your efforts towards maintaining a healthy weight. Consuming a balanced diet packed with fruit, vegetables, lean meats, fish and whole grains can greatly assist in weight management. While maintaining a healthy weight can pose a challenge, the positive effects on PCOS symptoms can make the effort worth it.  So, in summary here are 5 practicle ways you can do this:

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet
• Make sure you eat a good breakfast every day
• Take enough gentle exercise every week
• Limit your carb intake
• Get enough sleep!

For further information read our blog: Understanding the Challenges of Weight Loss with PCOS.

Adopt a Balanced Diet

A well-balanced diet is integral in regulating your cycle when dealing with PCOS. Opting for wholesome foods like fruits, veggies, grains, and lean proteins can help control insulin levels, which in turn regulate menstruation. It is advisable to steer clear of processed and fried food, or food high in sugar as these can lead to heightened estrogen production, exacerbating PCOS symptoms.

Introducing anti-inflammatory foods such as broccoli, berries, avocados, leafy greens and ginger into your diet can provide some relief from PCOS symptoms. They are not only rich in essential nutrients but also contribute to overall wellbeing.

Including certain spices like cinnamon, ginger, papaya, turmeric and pineapple can be wonderfully beneficial. They may not have a direct effect on menstrual regularity, but their healthy properties cannot be overlooked:

• Ginger - the vitamin C and magnesium in ginger help the uterus to contract, and start your period
• Cinnamon - this warming spice has a beneficial effect on blood flow in the body, and can help to regulate insulin levels
• Pineapple - this juicy fruit contains an enzyme called bromelain, which is thought to reduce inflammation. If your irregular cycle is caused by inflammation, pineapple could possibly help.

Always remember, regulating PCOS largely revolves around a change in diet combined with physical activity. It's about crafting a lifestyle designed to manage and alleviate symptoms - and including a varied, balanced diet is an all-important step in that journey.

Use of Supplements

Topping up your healthy diet with vitamins and supplements is another great way to regulate your menstrual cycle if you suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome. If you’re planning on trying for a baby or suffer from any other health conditions, however, it’s important to consult your doctor or a healthcare professional before you start taking anything.

Myo-inositol: This amazing B type vitamin has been shown in studies^1 to balance hormones and regulate menstrual health. Not only is inositol gentle on your body, it supports healthy blood sugar levels ­– reassuring for people with PCOS (even if they’re a healthy weight). What’s more, it occurs naturally in the body as well as in certain fruits, beans, grains and nuts. That’s why, along with carefully selected vitamins and minerals, myo-inositol is the bedrock of all our PCOS supplements.

Vitamin D: This is an essential nutrient that aids in calcium absorption. A deficiency can lead to irregular cycles, especially in women with PCOS.

Black Pepper: While not a traditional supplement, black pepper can contribute to maintaining a healthy hormonal balance, thus assisting with regular menstrual cycles.

Probiotics: Good gut health is critical and probiotics can help maintain this, influencing hormonal and menstrual regularity.

Turmeric: This supplement has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, helping reduce PCOS symptoms.

Selenium: This trace mineral can help regulate metabolic functionality and menstrual regularity.

By incorporating these supplements into your routine along with maintaining a healthy weight, diet, and physical activity, you could begin to see a shift in your cycle regularity. Remember, it's not just about taking supplements; it's about making overall positive changes in your lifestyle. While change might be hard, it could put you on the fast track to getting your cycle back in rhythm.

Consider Oral Birth Control

Although not for everyone, oral birth control is a widely used method for period regulation among women with PCOS. These contraceptives work by keeping the hormone levels in your body balanced, thus helping to regulate your cycle. Doctors generally tailor their pill prescriptions to each patient's individual body composition, as this method comes with its own side effects, such as headaches and nausea.

Birth control pills not only induce regular periods but they also protect from diseases associated with irregular menstruation, like endometrial cancer. Other hormonal contraceptive methods, like an intrauterine system, also reduce the risk of endometrial cancer but may not stimulate periods.

It's important to talk with your doctor or a healthcare professional to understand which form of birth control is the most ideal for you. As with any treatment, it's critical to consider your health history, specific symptoms, and personal preferences in managing PCOS.

Long-term Risks of PCOS

Living with PCOS is not just about managing symptoms; it's also about understanding and mitigating the long-term risks associated with the condition. These risks, often overlooked, can have serious implications on a woman's overall health and quality of life.

From insulin resistance to cardiovascular disease, the long-term risks of PCOS are far-reaching. It's crucial to be aware of these potential complications and take proactive steps to manage them effectively.

What are the Long-term Risks of PCOS?

The long-term effects of PCOS are associated with significant health issues. One critical risk includes developing insulin resistance which adversely affects the body's ability to use insulin, resulting in a continuous high level of blood sugar. This destabilisation of glucose level can lead to the onset of Type 2 diabetes.

Another severe risk with PCOS is high blood pressure which can lead to further heart complications. Women with PCOS are not only prone to cardiovascular disease but also endometrial cancer, a condition enhanced by the hormonal imbalance.

In addition, PCOS can impact fertility, sometimes leading to problems in conception. This can further complicate pregnancies, increasing risks like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and high blood pressure, adding to the health threats posed by this condition.

Treatment Options for PCOS

Navigating through the maze of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can be challenging. However, understanding the various treatment options available can empower you to take control of your health. From lifestyle changes to medications and even surgery, there are several paths to explore.

Each type of treatment is designed to address specific symptoms and challenges associated with PCOS. Whether it's regulating your menstrual cycle with oral birth control pills or stimulating ovulation, the goal is to improve your quality of life and health.

Lifestyle Changes

Managing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) requires an integrated approach, with lifestyle changes playing a pivotal role in helping regulate monthly cycles. The type of treatment often revolves around healthy weight management, regular exercise, and a nutritious diet.

Lifestyle changes for PCOS are not about drastic overnight adjustments, rather, it's about sustainable habits that incrementally improve overall health and mitigate the adverse effects of PCOS. The journey may seem daunting, but the benefits are significant.

Medicines

Oral Birth Control Pills: These can help regulate your period and reduce symptoms such as excessive hair growth and acne.

Anti-androgen Medicines: Certain medications like flutamide, finasteride and spironolactone are utilized for managing excessive hair growth, a common symptom of PCOS.

Weight-Loss Medicines: For those struggling with obesity or being overweight, weight-loss medicines such as orlistat can be an option.

Cholesterol Meds: If high cholesterol levels are a concern, statins can be prescribed.

Eflornithine Cream: This is applied to slow down unwanted facial hair growth. Please note, it doesn't remove hair but can be used alongside other hair removal treatments.

Minoxidil Cream: This cream is recommended for hair loss from the scalp, providing you're not pregnant or seeking pregnancy.

The type of treatment option you receive depends on your individual symptoms and needs, so always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new medicines. Remember, it's your body and your health, so don't hesitate in expressing your concerns and asking questions.

Surgery

Surgical intervention is a feasible treatment option for PCOS, notably if medicines fall short in rendering results. A minor technique named laparoscopic ovarian drilling, or LOD, may be adopted. Making a small incision in your lower abdomen, a slim microscope known as a laparoscope is inserted. The surgeon then proceeds to treat the ovaries using heat or a laser to obliterate the tissue that forms androgens, or male hormones.

Through this process, LOD reduces testosterone and luteinising hormone (LH) levels while simultaneously enhancing follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. The hormonal balance of the body is essentially restored, which can revive the normal functioning of your ovaries.

It's essential to note that while this procedure can restore ovulation by eliminating tissue producing androgen hormones, it's rarely performed with more recent medications available. It's hence worth trying alternate ways of regulating your periods with PCOS, such as lifestyle changes and oral birth control, before considering surgery.

Final Thoughts on Regulating Periods with PCOS

In conclusion, regulating periods with PCOS is not an insurmountable task. By tracking your cycle, adopting a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and considering the use of certain supplements like myo-inositol, you can help your body to restore ovulation and regulate menstruation. Remember, it's not just about getting regular periods, but also about managing the symptoms of PCOS such as insulin resistance, androgen level imbalance, and unwanted hair growth.

While the journey may seem daunting, remember that you're not alone. There are countless women who have walked this path before you and have successfully managed their PCOS symptoms. With the right guidance and determination, you too can regain control over your menstrual cycle and live a healthier, happier life.

Health Disclaimer:

The information provided in the blog post is intended for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for guidance on your specific condition.

Although supplements may offer potential benefits for women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), individual results may vary. It is important to note that scientific research on their effectiveness for PCOS is ongoing, and more evidence may be needed regarding their long-term effects or safety.

Before considering any supplement, we strongly recommend discussing it with your doctor or healthcare provider. They can provide personalised advice based on your medical history, current medications, and overall health.

It is crucial to remember that dietary supplements are not subject to the same regulations as prescription medications in the United Kingdom. Therefore, it is important to thoroughly research potential benefits and risks and to choose products from reputable manufacturers.

While we strive to provide reliable and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the content presented in this blog post. We do not assume any liability for any consequences arising from the use of the information provided.

Ultimately, your health and well-being are best served by actively engaging with a qualified healthcare professional who can guide you on your PCOS journey. They can help you make informed decisions about treatment options, including the potential use of supplements.

Remember, you are your own best advocate, and open dialogue with your healthcare provider is key to making informed decisions about your healthcare.

References:

1. Unfer V, Facchinetti F, Orrù B, Giordani B, Nestler J. Myo-inositol effects in women with PCOS: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Endocr Connect. 2017 Nov;6(8):647-658. doi: 10.1530/EC-17-0243. PMID: 29042448; PMCID: PMC5655679.