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PCOD PCOS Women's health

HEALTH BENEFITS OF FENUGREEK

Fenugreek seeds - Furocyst

Fenugreek (Methi) is an herb used for medicinal purposes from many years in India and North Africa. Its leaves & seeds contain bioactive components. Its leaves provide 49 calories and contain 89% water, 6% carbohydrates, 4% protein, and less than 1% fat, with calcium. Its seeds are rich sources of protein, dietary fiber, B vitamins, iron, and several other dietary minerals. you will get to know about the health benefits of fenugreek. (http://ninindia.org/dietaryguidelinesforninwebsite.pdf)

Availability (regions)

Fenugreek is majorly available in Nepal, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Argentina, Egypt, France, Spain, Turkey, Morocco, and China. The Indian states which majorly produce fenugreek are Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttaranchal, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Haryana, and Punjab.

(http://www.spiceflair.com/fenugreek/)

Nutritional Value of Fenugreek

It contains a wide variety of beneficial nutrients, including iron, magnesium, manganese, and copper, as well as vitamin B6, protein, and dietary fiber. Fenugreek also contains a number of powerful phytonutrients, including choline, trigonelline, yamogenin, gitogenin, diosgenin, tigogenin, and neotigogens.

(https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/vegetable/fenugreek.html)

Health Benefits

Fenugreek is rich in bioactive components such as saponins, soluble fiber, insoluble fiber, etc. These bioactive components contribute to various health benefits

  • Fenugreek & Management of Type-2 Diabetes: It has been proved by many clinical & non-clinical studies that fenugreek helps in lowering blood glucose levels in diabetic individuals. The bio-active component of fenugreek (Saponins & 4-hydroxy isoleucine) is reported to increase the release of insulin from the cells (beta cells) so that sugar levels in the blood can be normalized.
  • One of the published studies of innovative research product FENFUROTM reported a significant change in blood glucose levels, decrease in HbA1c levels, fasting plasma glucose levels, PP plasma glucose levels and increase in C-peptide levels as compared to Placebo group. The fenfuro-treated group also showed a reduction in concomitant anti-diabetic therapy.
  • Regular intake of FENFURO can control the blood sugar level effectively. Fenfuro is a first of its kind, safe nutraceutical derived from fenugreek seeds through a patented process. Through its unique scientific process, FENFURO concentrates the bioactive part of plants into a manageable dose, while removing the inert parts such as cellulose. Also, since a lot of healthy botanicals are not palatable, consuming their concentrate in capsule form in small dosage is a lot easier. FENFURO contains a rich variety of saponins and flavonoids. These substances are known to lower blood lipid level and help in insulin sensitization and glucose regulation. FENFURO is the first dual action insulin sensitizer.
  • Fenugreek Lipid lowering activity: Fenugreek has hypocholesterolemic effect ie. cholesterol-lowering effect, which is due to the action of fibers & saponins of fenugreek on the hepatic cholesterol. These components increase the thermogenetic process (conversion of cholesterol to energy with the help of heat) of the lipids inside the cells. Many reports have shown that fenugreek was effective in lowering total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the body. Animal studies also suggest that when rats were fed with hypercholesterolemic diet then, fenugreek prevented the rise in serum cholesterol levels.
  • Fenugreek Antioxidant activity: The bioactive components (flavonoids & polyphenols) present in fenugreek contribute to its antioxidant activity. It blocks the chain reaction formed by free radicals. This activity of fenugreek helps in protecting the body from oxidative damage.
  • Fenugreek Anti-inflammatory activity: It has been demonstrated by animal studies that fenugreek has anti-inflammatory activity also. Fenugreek showed the beneficial effect of inhibiting inflammatory responses in many animal studies. It helps with inflammation within the body such as mouth ulcers, bronchitis, tuberculosis, chronic coughs, kidney ailments, etc.
  • Fenugreek Testosterone booster: Fenugreek is claimed to boost testosterone levels in men by inhibiting 5-α-reductase (an enzyme which converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone). It is thus helpful in improving libido, energy, strength, and well-being.
  • Fenugreek Joint pain relieving: Fenugreek is reported to cure joint pain, particularly from arthritis. This beneficial effect is due to its antioxidant & anti-inflammatory property. It has been reported that fenugreek mimics estrogen which is known to inhibit conditions like arthritis. It inhibits inflammation by activating those pathways which counteract the effect of autoimmune disorders.
  • Decrease in dysmenorrhea by Fenugreek: Clinical study data suggest that prescription of fenugreek seed powder during menstruation can reduce the severity of dysmenorrhea. Fenugreek helps in the reduction in pain, fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, and lack of energy during the menstrual cycle. Fenugreek helps to balance hormones which are responsible for menstruation.
  • Fenugreek in PCOS: Recently fenugreek is reported to prevent polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It has been reported that fenugreek seed extract is capable to reduce cyst size in the ovaries and prevent the formation of new cysts. It is also reported to reduce the ovarian volume. The clinical data suggest that fenugreek was effective in maintaining the regular menstrual cycle. For more information please visit www.furocyst.com

References

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26516311

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HEALTH BENEFITS OF FENUGREEK

Categories
PCOD PCOS Uncategorized Women's health

SKIN PROBLEMS IN PCOS

SKIN PROBLEMS IN PCOS

PCOS causes major skin related disorders in women. These various skin problems in PCOS originate when cysts start to develop in excessive number, which makes the ovaries unable to produce hormones in normal levels. Thus, skin problems are the outcome of hormonal imbalance. This hormonal imbalance a has huge effect on other parts of the body also and skin is one of the targets of hormonal imbalance.

The skin problems in PCOS include:

  • Acne or oily skin
  • Facial hairs
  • Hirsutism (Excess body hair including the chest, stomach and back)
  • Alopecia
  • Acanthosis nigricans

These skin issues lead to depression and lack of confidence in young females. This makes the urgent requirement for the treatment of PCOS to tackle the outcomes as early as possible. But the treatment can only be conducted when the detail of these skin issues is known.

Acne or oily skin

Acne on oily skin is large, red and deep breakouts on the skin. They are primarily the result of hormonal disorders caused by androgens (male hormones). Women with PCOS have a hormonal imbalance that causes an overproduction of the male hormones (testosterone). This causes the sebaceous glands to enlarge and produce more sebum. The excess amount of sebum makes the skin oily and prone to pimples or acne cause skin problems in PCOS.

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Cystic acne can be painful, as well as emotionally distressing because of its effect on facial appearance.

Cystic acne tends to develop in areas that are usually considered as hormonally sensitive, especially the lower third of the face. This includes the cheeks, jawline, chin and upper neck.

Facial hairs

Just like acne and oily skin, an excess of male hormones causes unwanted hair growth. Women with unwanted hair on their face or body are well aware of it which creates the embarrassed and frustrating situation. 2

Androgens act on the growth phase of the hair cycle, causing the hair to go from vellus hair (the light, thin hair that covers your body) to terminal hair (thick, dark hair).

Hirsutism

In women, hirsutism is the male pattern of excessive hair growth on the beard area, chest, stomach and inner thighs which can be an extremely distressing and an emotional problem.
This is also caused due to excessive production of testosterone (male hormone) in females. Androgens may cause some vellus hairs (covers the face, chest, and back) to change to terminal hairs (covers the face and body) and cause the terminal hairs to grow faster and thicker.

All PCOS females suffer from hirsutism to varying degrees. One of the ways in which the extent of the problem can be monitored is by using the Ferriman-Gallway Score to classify unwanted hair growth.

Alopecia

Alopecia is the loss of hair on the scalp. This is one of the symptoms of PCOS in women. It is also termed as androgenic alopecia due to4 the reason behind its occurrence in PCOS i.e. androgen imbalance in PCOS.

Acanthosis nigricans

These are unsightly, dark and velvety skin patches. They appear on the neck, underarms, inner thighs and on the face i.e. under eyes, forehead & around lips. 5

The effects of androgens on sweat gland units in the skin can cause follicular skin. It is suggested that sometimes, higher insulin levels in the body can cause patches of dark skin on the body.

MANAGEMENT OF SKIN PROBLEMS

Skin disorders in PCOS can be managed by targeting the hormonal cause and insulin resistance in PCOS. Various management strategies are given below.

  • Lifestyle change is an important parameter to deal with skin and hair disorders related to PCOS. Regular exercise and diet with weight loss help to manage insulin insensitivity, which further helps to balance the hormones and improves the symptoms.
  • Acne management: PCOS acne has to be managed both externally and internally. If the acne is not severe, no specific treatment is required. Natural treatments can be acquired which produce the anti-inflammatory effect and therefore, naturally relieves and roots out the cystic acne.

Tips to naturally manage acne

  • Stay away from the stress by meditations, yoga, deep breathing exercises, and other related exercises, which keep you stress-free.
  • Always avoid squeezing the acne as it not only increases the chance of becoming deeper infection but also leaving scars when cystic acne gets cured.
  • Avoid excessive sweating and clean your face & other acne-affected parts of the body after doing exercise or any other activity to clean the sweat. Sweat will cause pores to be clogged and more susceptible to cystic acne.
  • Make sure to avoid drying out the skin, which causes irritation, so, apply moisturizer after every wash.
  • Avoid using oily and greasy cosmetic products, which increases to cystic acne.
  • Avoid drinking and smoking habits as this will make the cystic acne worse and reduces the chance of curing acne.
  • Hirsutism management: Management of hirsutism in PCOS involves the use of medications which fall into the following three categories:
    • Androgen receptor blockers: These drugs attach themselves to the same site as the male hormones (testosterone), effectively blocking the androgen access to the receptor and causing the inability of androgens to conduct their activities. The drugs in this category include cyproterone acetate, spironolactone, flutamide, etc.
    • Androgen suppressing drugs: These drugs act on the body to handle the number of androgens which the body produces. Some of those drugs include glucocorticoids, birth control pills, insulin-sensitizing agents.
    • 5-α-reductase inhibitors: These drugs act on the enzyme which converts the androgens to their active forme. 5-α-reductase. If the enzyme is inhibited then, the conversion of testosterone to its more potent form can also be blocked. Some of the drugs in this category are cyproterone acetate, finasteride, etc.
    • Eflornithine hydrochloride, an inhibitor of the enzyme ornithine decarboxylase in human skin, has been approved for topical use in treating facial hirsutism.
  • Alopecia management: Hair loss in PCOS can be prevented by one over-the-counter medication known as minoxidil. It helps in the re-growth of lost hairs. Other treatment strategies include the normalization of testosterone levels in the body. Testosterone imbalance the hair follicles to grow well. Testosterone targeting drugs along with minoxidil can slow down the hair loss and promote hair growth.

MANAGEMENT OF SKIN PROBLEMS WITH FENUGREEK

As in the mechanism of PCOS-induced skin problems, insulin secreted by the pancreas is not efficiently utilized by the tissues which leads to obesity and the production of excess testosterone (androgen).

6This hyperandrogenism causes skin problems.

Consuming fenugreek leaves or seeds helps in maintaining normal insulin levels as reported by scientific studies. Fenugreek improves glucose tolerance in the body, which helps in weight loss. This weight loss helps to maintain hormone levels to control skin problems such as acne and hair problems such as hirsutism.

Fenugreek seed extract (Furocyst) is a clinically evaluated and patented extract for management of PCOS. During the clinical study, it has been demonstrated by Swaroop A et al. that Furocyst significantly managed glucose levels in the body and also caused a significant reduction in the cyst size. This fenugreek seed extract was efficient in maintaining regularity in the menstrual cycle of enrolled females. This beneficial effect of fenugreek seed extract also led to pregnancy in some of the female patients. These benefits show that fenugreek might be able to manage skin problems in the PCOS suffering females.

In a clinical study conducted by Bashtian M H et al., it was observed that some of the PCOS patients got pregnant while treating with fenugreek. There was no adverse event originated. Regularity in the menstrual cycle was observed along with management of insulin resistance till the completion of the treatment. Hirsutism score (F-G score) was also one of the parameters to be observed during the study. It was found that hirsutism score was also decreased in subjects showing the beneficial effect of fenugreek on unwanted hair growth in PCOS.

It has been reported by Moers-Carpi M that fenugreek is efficient in the management of androgenetic alopecia. During the clinical study, 7it was observed that fenugreek significantly improved the density of terminal hairs. New hair growth was also seen at hair loss areas. It was reported by the researcher that fenugreek seed contains numerous bioactive substances such as alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins and steroid sapogenins. One ingredient of fenugreek seed, diosgenin, was observed to have the activity to metabolize more testosterone to oestradiol, reducing the formation of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which damages the hair root.

The above given clinical studies prove that fenugreek extract has great therapeutic application in the management of PCOS and its symptoms like skin and hair problems. It can be incorporated in diet or can be consumed in the form of food supplement to tackle the problems of PCOS and insulin resistance.

REFERENCES

Click here

For more info visit https://furocyst.com or

Call : +91 9915002390

SKIN PROBLEMS IN PCOS

Categories
PCOD PCOS Women's health

PCOS: FEMALE INFERTILITY

PCOS: FEMALE INFERTILITY

INTRODUCTION

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the hormonal imbalance in females, producing cyst in the ovaries and making it the leading cause of infertility in females. PCOS contributes towards 75% of female infertility.

REASON OF INFERTILITY IN PCOS

In females with PCOS, cyst formation does not allow the ovaries to release eggs. Due to this, the eggs become unable to fertilize with the sperms. When eggs are not released properly, the females also experience irregular menstrual cycles (anovulation). These irregular menstrual cycles are one of the major symptoms of PCOS.

In normal menstrual cycle, a follicle (containing egg) is matured and becomes ready to ovulate. About 14 days after ovulation, menstrual period is expected if the female is not pregnant.

In PCOS, the follicle (antral follicle) with egg is unable to develop and mature due to which ovulation does not occur and results in irregular menstrual cycle.

Due to immature follicle, the egg becomes unable to fuse with sperm to conceive. Thus, infertility originates in PCOS suffering females.

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High levels of insulin inside body interfere in the irregularity of menstrual cycle to develop anovulation and infertility. Insulin levels further stimulate the ovaries to produce androgens (testosterone), which also promote infertility. In most of the women with PCOS, the pituitary gland produces excessive amounts of luteinizing hormone (LH), which can stimulate the ovaries to secrete androgens. This further causes infertility in PCOS females.

CONTRIBUTION OF OBESITY IN PCOS TOWARDS INFERTILITY3

It is reported that obesity along with PCOS contributes majorly towards anovulation or infertility in women. The elevated levels of androgens and obesity lead to increased formation of estrogen hormone through insulin resistance. This hormone exerts a positive feedback on LH (luteinizing hormone) secretion and negative feedback on FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) secretion. The increased levels of LH can lead to hyperplasia of the ovarian stroma and theca cells and increased ovarian androgen production (testosterones), which in turn provides more substrate for peripheral aromatization and be responsible for the chronic anovulation. Deregulation of FSH by testosterones interferes in normal follicle growth. Thus, follicle does not mature completely and results in anovulation.

TREATMENTS

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Lifestyle modification: For overweight 5women with PCOS who are anovulatory, diet adjustments and weight loss are associated with recommencement of spontaneous ovulation. One of the best ways to regulate the body weight and possibly reverse PCOS is through exercise and diet. It is considered as primary therapy for infertility in PCOS. Weight loss alone is associated with a reduction in serum-free testosterone concentration, which helps in ovulation and pregnancy. Weight reduction is also associated with management of insulin levels, which contributes towards reduction in symptoms of PCOS.

Oral contraceptive pills: Oral contraceptive pills are reported to inhibit LH,6 diminish the circulating levels of androgens and increase the levels of circulating SHBG (sex-hormone binding globulin). It is advisable to use a low dose combination pill containing low dose of synthetic estrogen in combination with a low-androgenic progestin. These pills control menstrual cycles, reduce male hormones (testosterones) and help to clear acne also.

Insulin sensitizing agents: Drugs initially 7developed to treat type 2 diabetes have been used to treat PCOS. Some drugs improve insulin sensitivity by decreasing the circulating insulin levels. As these drugs do not enhance insulin production, therefore they are free from the risks of hypoglycaemia. Improving insulin sensitivity is associated with lowering testosterone levels which helps to improve ovulation rates.

Fertility medications: Women with PCOS desirous of fertility are treated mostly for anovulatory infertility. Several medications that stimulate ovulation can help women with PCOS become pregnant. Treatment options include:

  • Clomiphene citrate (CC) is the8 first line treatment in women with PCOS and anovulatory infertility. It causes increasing cervical mucus thickening and exhibits its anti-estrogenic effect on the endometrial lining; thereby negating any benefits of ovulation should it occur. On CC, the ovulation rate is around 70-80%. Clomiphene citrate is used early in the menstrual cycle to increase the chances of an egg being released by the ovary, which can then be fertilized naturally. It can be used either by itself or in combination with other drugs (e.g. insulin sensitisers) to increase its effectiveness.
  • Letrozole (an aromatase inhibiter) is indicated as an effective agent for induction of ovulation in women with PCOS. This drug slows the estrogen production and causes the body to make more follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), a hormone needed for ovulation. Letrozole is as effective as clomiphene in causing ovulation.
  • Gonadotrophins are hormones involved in regulating ovulation by managing follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone (LH), human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG). The medication is injected and the ovary carefully monitored by ultrasound to avoid over stimulation. These can also be used for treating infertility where women have not responded to clomiphene citrate.

Furocyst (fenugreek seed extract) treatment

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It has been demonstrated by clinical studies that the bioactive components present in fenugreek seed extract – Furocyst contributes majorly towards the management of PCOS and induction of fertility. These bioactive components target insulin resistance to normalize the resultant overproduction of testosterones. It was also observed during the clinical study that Furocyst maintained regularity in menstrual cycle in PCOS women on completion of the treatment and women also got pregnant. It is known in PCOS that hormone levels such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels are reduced which is also one of the reasons behind infertility. But Furocyst treatment showed significant increase in LH and FSH levels in the women. Thus, the study concluded that Furocyst was efficacious in ameliorating PCOS.

According to Chaudhary S et al., insulin resistance plays important role in the reproductive dysfunction in women. They reported that PCOS women have insulin resistance, which gives rise to infertility in them. According to their study, reduction in insulin resistance causes improved action of androgen on target tissues that offers the possibility of improvement in the physical stigmata of androgen excess leading to correction of the reproductive dysfunction and prevention of metabolic derangements. Fenugreek seed extract – Furocyst has been reported to target insulin resistance, which might contribute in the prevention of infertility in PCOS women.

In a randomized, double-blinded and placebo-controlled trial of fenugreek seed extract conducted by Bashtian MH et al., it was observed that fenugreek maintained the regularity in menstrual cycle in PCOS women. Pregnancies were also observed after the fenugreek seed extract treatment. They also showed that fenugreek had significantly positive effect on the insulin resistance.

Furocyst is an innovative product (extracted and developed through a novel & innovative U.S. patented process) involving separations of active ingredients from the natural plant without affecting chemical properties of the active fractions. No chemicals are used. It is a natural and promising dietary supplement for the management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

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Categories
PCOD PCOS Women's health

PCOS & MENTAL STATE OF WOMEN

PCOS is a condition in which the imbalance of hormones leads to the formation of one or more cysts inside the ovaries. These cysts target the whole body of a woman creating a number of complications showing its presence. These complications include:

  • Glucose level fluctuations
  • Menstrual irregularities
  • Infertility
  • Skin disorders such as acne, skin patches
  • Hair disorder such as alopecia, facial hair growth
  • Thyroid
  • Obesity
  • Endometrial cancer, etc

It has been demonstrated that approximately 34% of women with PCOS have depression compared to 7% of women in the general population and around 45% have anxiety, compared to only 18% of the general population.

These symptoms are so over expressive that within a short period of time, they start to target the psychological condition of a woman. When the mental state of a woman is affected in the form of stress & depression, the brain cells start to actively participate to advance the effect of cysts to a much higher level. This worsens the state of PCOS.

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Research shows that PCOS gives rise to a variety of emotional and mental conditions such as

  • Anxiety
  • Panic attacks
  • Depression
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Fatigue
  • Mood swings
  • Chronic stress
  • Eating disorders

HOW PCOS AFFECTS MENTAL HEALTH?

As in the mechanism of PCOS, higher testosterone (androgen) levels in the ovaries give rise to the development of cysts. Testosterone tends to inhibit the maturation of follicle containing egg. Thus, immature follicle becomes cyst.3

It has been demonstrated by animal studies that these high levels of testosterone in PCOS women affect that region of the brain, which is responsible for emotions and behavior. They observed that high testosterone doses in animals significantly interfered with the activity of a gene in the brain region called amygdala that regulates the androgen receptor. They also identified alterations in the receptors for a form of estrogen due to high testosterone doses, as well as changes in the genes that regulate serotonin and GABA – neurotransmitters involved in the control of anxious behavior.

MANAGEMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH IN PCOS

It is clear from the reported data that women with PCOS are at risk of a wide range of significant psychological difficulties, which lower the quality of life also. Thus, treatment of PCOS is at extreme need to prevent physical and psychological issues.

A healthy lifestyle, nutritious diet, plentiful exercise and targeted nutritional supplements and/or prescription medications can help to bring the PCOS psychological issues under control.

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Anti-androgens can also be consumed on prescription by doctor. Anti-androgens help to lower testosterone levels in the body. Normal levels of testosterones in women do not target the uncontrolled activity of amygdale (brain region for emotion & behavior) in the brain. This strategy will help to improve psychological condition in the women with PCOS. Other management measures include:

  • Management of skin issues: Skin provides feminism to the women. Any changes in skin lead to depressive and stressful behavior in women. During PCOS, skin problems are taken as one of the symptoms. They are always taken as an outcome in PCOS. Treatment of skin issues such as acne & skin patches contributes in the management of mental health in women. Skin issues can be managed with the help of either natural remedies or by dietary modifications or by prescription medications. Any of the treatment measure can help resolve the skin issue.
  • Management of hair loss: Another outcome of PCOS which adds-in towards depression and anxiety is “hair loss”. Management of hair loss can be done by consumption of anti-androgens because hair loss due to PCOS involves the over-production of androgens (testosterone) in the body. Testosterones interfere in the normal cycle of hair-follicle growth due to which hair density is also thickened. Thus, anti-androgens lower the production of testosterone and help in the growth cycle of hair follicles.
  • Obesity management: Obesity is a major reason behind depression and anxiety in PCOS women. Healthy lifestyle, controlled diet and regular exercise help to control obesity. Weight loss medications can also be consumed to treat obesity. According to the reported studies, participation in physical activity programs is associated with lowering obesity and depressive symptoms and improvements in quality of life.
  • Cyst management: Reduction of the cysts in PCOS is the primary line-of-treatment. This can be achieved by controlling testosterone levels in the body along with management of insulin resistance. Testosterones can be controlled by either anti-androgens or testosterone suppressing drugs. Both of these treatment regimens can help to lower cyst size and cyst number which will automatically help to manage menstrual irregularities and infertility problems. They might contribute well to lower mental health issues in PCOS.

These management strategies are a key towards improvement in the mental health issues. By controlling PCOS as early as possible, mental health issues can also be controlled.

It has been reported that fenugreek is an effective remedy to treat PCOS patients. It is clinically proven safe and effective in the management of PCOS. It has been observed that Furocyst® (fenugreek seed extract) significantly reduced the cyst size, showed complete dissolution of the cysts and reported regular menstrual cycle on completion of the treatment. It also increased insulin sensitizing activity & peripheral utilization of insulin thus helped to manage PCOS.

 

REFERENCES

Categories
PCOD PCOS Uncategorized Women's health

ARE YOU A WOMAN WITH PCOS & BIPOLAR DISORDER?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the commonest endocrine disorders in women of reproductive age. For the diagnosis of this syndrome the Rotterdam Criteria is used. According to this criterion, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is diagnosed in the presence of at least two of three criteria:

  • Menstrual disorders or amenorrhoea with chronic lack of ovulation
  • Clinical and/or biochemical features of hyperandrogenism
  • The presence of polycystic ovaries in ultrasonography after the exclusion of other endocrine disorders

Prevalence: In the United States, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders of reproductive-age women, with a prevalence of 4-12%. Up to 10% women are diagnosed with PCOS. In some European studies, the prevalence of PCOS has been reported to be 6.5-8%.

PCOS is a disease, which is associated with many complications such as obesity, diabetes, thyroid, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease, etc. Bipolar disorder is one of the diseases associated with PCOS. It is not clear whether PCOS generates bipolar disorder or vice-versa but its occurrence is common in PCOS-affecting females.

Bipolar disorder 1

This disease is characterized by the occurrence of the periods of mania and depression. They are divided into:

  • Bipolar disorder I (full-blown mania and major depression),
  • Bipolar disorder II (hypomania and episodes of major depression)
  • Unspecified bipolar disorder (bipolar symptoms that do not meet criteria I or II)

Prevalence: During an epidemiological study, it was found the prevalence of bipolar disorder is very less. 1% of the population is found to be prevalent with bipolar disorder I, 1.1% with bipolar disorder II & 2.4% with bipolar disorder III. The overall prevalence of the bipolar disorder is 4.4% in US population. Bipolar disorder II has the highest persistence (73.2%), with Bipolar disorder I (63.3%) following second and bipolar sub-threshold third (59.5%).

Relation between PCOS & bipolar disorder

PCOS & bipolar disorder are reported to be linked to each other. It has been found from the clinical studies that women with bipolar disorder are at higher risk of PCOS and vice-versa. In a clinical study on 110 women with PCOS, it was reported that 88 women were suffering from bipolar disease also.

3Both PCOS and bipolar disorder show increased levels of stress and high cortisol. This could be due to a dysfunction in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The HPA axis is responsible for stress response. Cortisol is released to handle stress. Then the body is supposed to calm itself down when the stressor no longer exists. When there is a problem with this cycle, like there is in bipolar disorder and PCOS, the cortisol sticks around. High cortisol levels can lead to many cognitive problems and depressive symptoms. The hormone imbalance could also lead to hyperandrogenism in PCOS.

Multiple studies have shown a link between PCOS and the drug valproic acid/valproate, which is an anticonvulsant, used to treat bipolar disorder as a mood stabilizer & epilepsy. One study showed that 43% of the women receiving valproate for epilepsy had polycystic ovaries. In bipolar disorder, one study found that 47% of patients taking valproate had PCOS compared to the 13% of patients who were not.

Women with bipolar disorder are almost twice as likely to have irregular menstrual cycles, than healthy controls. While medications can cause irregularities, irregular periods often occur before a patient is even diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

BIPOLAR DISORDER QUESTIONNAIRE FOR WOMEN WITH PCOS

The following given questionnaire is helpful to screen women with bipolar disorder:

Positive screening for bipolar disorder on the basis of following scores:

  • YES to 7 or more than 13 points in Question 1
  • YES to Question 2
  • “MODERATE PROBLEM” or “SERIOUS PROBLEM” to Question 3

These symptoms can only be treated if regular therapy for PCOS is administered to the suffering females.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To know more, click on the link –

https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/stress/

REFERENCES

Categories
PCOD PCOS Women's health

REDUCING THE RISK OF ENDOMETRIAL CANCER IN PCOS

REDUCING THE RISK OF ENDOMETRIAL CANCER IN PCOS

ENDOMETRIAL CANCER

Female uterus contains a lining known as endometrium that contains tissue full of blood vessels. Under healthy condition, this endometrium lining is built up (by cell multiplication) for up to one month for probable pregnancy. If there is no possibility of pregnancy, then, after one month of cycle, this lining full of tissues breaks down as menses.

Under diseased condition, the cells of the endometrium lining begin to grow out of control, causing endometrial cancer. The cancer is staged according to where the cancer cells are found, from Stage I being completely within the uterus to Stage IV, where cancer has spread beyond the boundaries of the pelvis.

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SYMPTOMS OF ENDOMETRIAL CANCER

Unusual vaginal bleeding: About 90% of women diagnosed with endometrial cancer have abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as a change in their periods or bleeding between periods or after menopause. This symptom can also occur with some non-cancerous conditions, but it is important to have a doctor look into any irregular bleeding.

Vaginal discharge: Non-bloody vaginal discharge may also be a sign of endometrial cancer. Your doctor should check out any abnormal discharge.

Pelvic pain & Weight loss: Pain in the pelvis along with unintentional weight loss can also be a symptom of endometrial cancer. These symptoms are more common in later stages of the disease.

HOW PCOS INCREASE THE RISK OF ENDOMETRIAL CANCER?

2Women with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) are reported to be at a higher risk of developing endometrial cancer. It has been seen in many females that the PCOS suffering females are three times more prone to endometrial cancer as compared to normal females. But it is also clear that it’s not mandatory for a PCOS female to develop endometrial cancer. Whenever PCOS is at extreme levels, then, it might cause endometrial cancer.

PCOS is associated with irregularity in the hormonal balance, which produces cyst(s) in the ovaries of the females. During healthy condition, shedding of endometrium lining is inhibited only during pregnancy. But in PCOS, irregular hormones also do not allow the endometrium lining to break down during menses. This irregularity of hormones involves very lesser quantity of progesterone (causes shedding of endometrium in menses) & higher amount of estrogen (causes ovulation). Thus, endometrium lining grows to a much thicker level than normal due to deficiency of progesterone. This condition leads to pre-cancerous situation called endometrial hyperplasia. If this condition is left untreated, it develops to endometrial cancer.

MANAGEMENT OF PCOS-GENERATED ENDOMETRIAL CANCER

The endometrial cancer can be managed in two ways as given below:

  • Reduce the risk of development of endometrial cancer
  • Treat the developed endometrial cancer

It is up to the stage of the cancer in the patient through which the treatment strategy can be opted. It there is only a risk of development of the cancer, but it has not developed yet, then, first option can be chosen. If the cancer has already developed in PCOS suffering female, then, second option can be chosen. Following treatment strategies have been given accordingly.

REDUCE THE RISK OF DEVELOPMENT OF ENDOMETRIAL CANCER

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  • PCOS treatment: When you know that the PCOS is the obvious reason for the risk of developing endometrial cancer, then, it should be treated first. If left untreated, hormone levels will remain abnormal and affect your whole body and your cancer risk.

PCOS is generally treated with the help of oral contraceptives. These medications are prescribed by doctor. Oral contraceptives containing progesterone-only pills are best to reduce endometrial cancer risk. But these do not come with their side effects.

PCOS can also be managed with the help of a clinically proven dietary supplement in the form of fenugreek seed extract i.e. Furocyst™. It has been proven to be safe & effective for the management of PCOS. It has been clinically evaluated and patented and has no known side effects.

  • Healthy body weight: Most of the women with PCOS are obese or overweight. Obesity or overweight contributes highly to the development & progression of PCOS. Obesity is also known to be one of the risk factors of endometrial cancer because it also increases estrogen levels in the body.

Regular exercise and sticking to a healthy diet can lose excess weight and minimize the endometrial cancer risk.

  • Regular examinations: 4If you already know you are at a greater risk for endometrial cancer because of your PCOS, it’s important to keep an eye on the early signs of cancer. Thus, it is a big requirement for regular –
  • Pap smears: Tests for the presence of precancerous or cancerous cells on the cervix (opening of the uterus).
  • Pelvic exam: Examination of vulva and internal reproductive organs including cervix, ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus and vagina.

TREAT THE DEVELOPED ENDOMETRIAL CANCER

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If a female is diagnosed with endometrial cancer along with PCOS, it is very important to talk with a specialist as soon as possible. A number of treatments are available and only a specialist can help determine the best option. The option can be one of the following:

  • Surgery: Surgery is the main treatment for most of the women with endometrial cancer. It is carried out according to the stage of this cancer. If the cancer is limited only to the uterus then, the doctors opt for hysterectomy e. removing uterus from the body. If the cancer has spread to other organs such as fallopian tube, ovaries, part of vagina, etc, then, they may need to be removed as well.
    • For any of these procedures, general anesthesia is used so the patient is asleep or sedated during the operation.
    • The doctor may feel that chemotherapy or radiation treatment is necessary as well to prevent cancer from spreading.
    • The patient is recovered after surgery by staying in the hospital for 5-7 days. Complete recovery takes 4-6 weeks.
    • The only disadvantage of this surgery is infertility (not being able to start or maintain a pregnancy).
  • Radiation: This type of therapy involves killing the cancer cells by exposing them to high-energy radiation. It can be done in two ways:
    • Either from a machine (sends the radiation through the body towards the cancer cells)
    • Or internally with seeds, needles or catheters which are placed directly in contact with cancer.
    • With one radiation machine strategy, the device is usually left in place for about 1 to 4 days. The patient needs to stay immobile to keep the radiation sources from moving during treatment and so she is usually kept in the hospital overnight.
    • Another radiation machine strategy is a bit intense. Each dose takes a very short time (usually less than an hour) and the patient can go home the same day.
  • Chemotherapy: When this type of treatment is opted, special chemicals are introduced into the body, either by mouth or intravenously, which directly kill the cancer cells. These chemicals enter the bloodstream and reach throughout the body, making this treatment potentially useful for cancer that has spread beyond the endometrium.
    • Combination chemotherapy sometimes works better in treating cancer than one drug alone. Combination chemotherapy sometimes works better in treating cancer than one chemical/drug alone.
    • Chemo is often given in cycles e. a period of treatment, followed by a rest period. The chemo chemicals/drugs may be given on one or more days in each cycle.
    • These chemicals kill cancer cells but can also damage some normal cells. This produces side effects including nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, mouth or vaginal sores and hair loss.
    • Most of the side effects of chemotherapy stop when the treatment is over, but some can last a long time.
  • Hormone therapy: If cancer responds to hormonal stimulation, there are medications, which can help block the hormone from interacting with cancer. This can help prevent further growth of cancer. Hormone treatment for endometrial cancer includes:
    • Progesterone: Slows the growth of endometrial cancer cells.
    • Tamoxifen: Prevent the circulation of estrogen hormone. Also prevents estrogen from nourishing the cancer cells.
    • Luteinizing hormone agonist: It switches off the estrogen production by the ovaries in women who are premenopausal. They are injected every 1-3 months.
    • Aromatize inhibitors: Even after the ovaries are removed (or are not functioning); estrogen is still made in the fat tissue. This becomes the body’s main source of estrogen. Drugs called aromatase inhibitors can stop this estrogen from being formed and lower estrogen levels even further.

YOU QUERIES TO DOCTOR AFTER TREATMENT

When the treatment has been completed, following questions should be asked by the patient to the doctor for satisfactory completion of treatment as well as for future health:6

  • Are there any limits on what I can do?
  • What symptoms should I watch for?
  • What kind of exercise should I do now?
  • What type of follow-up will I need after treatment?
  • How often will I need to have follow-up exams and imaging tests?
  • Will I need any blood tests?
  • How will I know if the cancer has come back? What should I watch for?
  • What will my options be if the cancer comes back?
  • When can I resume my usual activities at work and/or around the house?

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REDUCING THE RISK OF ENDOMETRIAL CANCER IN PCOS

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PCOD PCOS Women's health

PCOS MIGHT BE ATTACKING YOUR LIVER TOO

PCOS MIGHT BE ATTACKING YOUR LIVER TOO

NON-ALCOHOLIC FATTY LIVER DISEASE (NAFLD) is a very common disorder to be associated with PCOS (poly cystic ovary syndrome). NAFLD is the accumulation of excess fat in the liver of people who drink little or no alcohol. The most common form of NAFLD is a non-serious condition called fatty liver. A small group of people with NAFLD may have a more serious condition named non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). In NASH, fat accumulation is associated with liver cell inflammation and different degrees of scarring. NASH is a potentially serious condition that may lead to severe liver scarring and cirrhosis.

NAFLD is highly prevalent in PCOS affecting females. It has been seen that 15% to 55% of women with PCOS are diagnosed with NAFLD. The liver isn’t meant to store fat. Its role is to serve as the detoxifying organ for the body filtering out harmful substances. Thus, when PCOS starts to contribute in accumulating fat inside liver then, the condition of the female worsens.

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NAFLD is a silent condition. Most women with PCOS won’t know that they have it until getting blood results. Having fatty liver or NAFLD increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. If not treated, NAFLD can progress to more advanced stages of liver damage such as NASH & liver cirrhosis.

DIAGNOSIS

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  • Diagnosis by blood test named as “Liver function test” (LFT) including alanine aminotransferase (ALT) & aspartate aminotransferase (AST)
  • Confirmation by ultrasound of the liver or liver biopsy

HOW PCOS CAUSES NAFLD

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Insulin resistance and obesity in PCOS causes NAFLD in women. Insulin resistance in adipose tissue results in accelerated lipolysis, causing an increased flow of free fatty acids to the liver, thus favoring hepatic fat accumulation. Visceral adipose tissue by increased free fatty acid flow to the liver seems to be an important regulator of fatty liver.

ASSOCIATED FACTORS WORSENING NAFLD IN PCOS

There are some factors which contribute in worsening the condition of NAFLD in women with PCOS. These are:

 

  • Excess abdominal weight
  • Insulin resistance5
  • Elevated androgens (testosterones)
  • Hightriglycerides
  • High LDL cholesterol level
  • Low HDL cholesterol level
  • Inactive lifestyle
  • Obstructive sleep apnea

TREATMENT

Therapeutic interventions primarily target the risk factors for NAFLD – obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and hyperglycemia. Curing these risk factors might automatically prevent the development of NAFLD in PCOS females.

Dietary modification 6

Fat, sugar, and excessive intake of processed foods are the main nutrition contributors to fatty liver disease. Consumption of trans-fats, fats typically found in processed and fast food, is linked with insulin resistance, inflammation and increased triglycerides. Fructose is also linked to worsening insulin resistance and inflammation which is found in corn syrup, juice and other flavored beverages.

Keeping trans-fats, sugar and processed foods out of the diet will improve the condition of the liver. Liver can remain healthy by eating a healthy diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, beans and legumes, fish and plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Lose Weight

7Weight loss is effective for treating fatty liver disease as it can improve insulin resistance, triglycerides and visceral fat. An inactive lifestyle is one of the contributing factors to NAFLD. Engaging in regular physical activity consisting of aerobic and resistance training, can decrease fatty liver even if weight loss isn’t achieved.

Participants who engaged in 30 to 60 minutes of exercise two to three times each week saw significant reductions in liver fat.

Thus diet, weight loss and exercise are the cornerstone of treatment and may be combined with insulin-sensitizers.

Fish Oil

8Omega-3 fatty acids like the ones found in cold water fish such as salmon, tuna and trout are effective at reducing triglycerides, inflammation and insulin in women with PCOS. In a clinical study, women with PCOS who supplemented their diets with 4 grams of fish oil for 8 weeks saw a significant decrease in liver fat and triglycerides.

Supplement with Vitamin E

9Women with PCOS have been shown to have higher levels of oxidative stress than women without PCOS. Oxidative stress is a contributing factor to diseases like NAFLD. Antioxidants work to fight oxidative stress and have been suggested in the treatment of NAFLD. Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, is commonly recommended to those with NAFLD.

Fenugreek

10Fenugreek has been clinically shown to be effective in the treatment of PCOS and its complications. Fenugreek seeds extract-based product – Furocyst™ has shown to improve the condition of PCOS. It is a patented and clinically evaluated product proven safe and effective with patients in PCOS. Fenugreek is also reported to be a good antioxidant to fight against oxidative stress. It may be able to manage NAFLD in PCOS suffering females.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in women with PCOS is common and serious, but can easily be reversed with diet and lifestyle changes!

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PCOS MIGHT BE ATTACKING YOUR LIVER TOO

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PCOD PCOS Women's health

CO-EXISTENCE OF PCOS AND HYPOTHYROIDISM

CO-EXISTENCE OF PCOS AND HYPOTHYROIDISM

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]THE CO-EXISTENCE OF DISEASES MEANS THE PRESENCE OF MULTIPLE DISEASES AT ONE TIME. In that way, the poly cystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and hypothyroidism co-exist. Generally it has been observed that long-term untreated hypothyroidism always generate PCOS in females due to the imbalance of hormones in thyroid gland.

HYPOTHYROIDISM is the condition when the thyroid gland is not producing sufficient thyroid hormone. Thyroid gland is an organ of the body located in the front lower part of the neck. Hormones produced by this gland i.e. triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), travel through the bloodstream and get circulated in every part of the body. Thus, thyroid gland affects every part of the body. In hypothyroidism, there occurs imbalance in the levels of hormones inside body which causes many auto-immune diseases too.

POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME (PCOS) is one such condition which is affected highly by the imbalance of hormones. Testosterone is one of those hormones. Increase in testosterone (male hormone) inside females causes the reproductive system to become infertile along with the development of multiple cysts in the ovaries. This worsens the condition of PCOS.

Thus, hypothyroidism gives rise to PCOS inside females. It has been seen that thyroid disorders and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are two of the most common endocrine disorders in the general population.

WHAT COULD BE THE REASON BEHIND DEVELOPMENT OF PCOS DUE TO HYPOTHYROIDISM?

One reason has been given that increase in testosterone levels causes PCOS in hypothyroid-affecting females.

Another reason is the rise in thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH). Rise in thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) in primary hypothyroidism leads to increased prolactin and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Prolactin contributes toward polycystic ovarian syndrome by inhibiting ovulation as a result of the change in the ratio of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) and increased dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) from the adrenal gland. This causes PCOS in females suffering from hypothyroidism.

co-existance of PCOS

DIAGNOSIS Hypothyroidism

Blood test including:

 

  • TSH:
  • It measures how much T4 the thyroid is being asked to make. Abnormally high TSH levels may mean you have hypothyroidism.
  • T4 tests(Free T4, free T4 index, total T4): It assesses the amount of T4 your thyroid is producing.
  • Thyroid peroxidase antibody(anti-TPO) (TgAb): It checks for thyroid antibodies and to detect autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s disease.
  • T3 and ReverseT3 (rT3): It assesses the amount of T3 your thyroid is producing and its ability to convert T4 to T3.

PCOS

  • Ultrasound: To detect cyst in the ovaries.
  • Blood test including:
  • Hormone levels: Such as thyroid hormones, testosterone levels, etc.
  • Blood sugar: To check the common occurrence of insulin resistance in PCOS females.
  • Lipid levels (LDL, Total Cholesterol, HDL and Triglycerides)

PREVENTION AND TREATMENT

To prevent the occurrence of PCOS developed along with hypothyroidism, it is better to cure the hypothyroidism as soon as possible. Possible prevention and treatment strategies for hypothyroidism are:

  • Dietary modification
  • Making dietary changes is the first line of defense in treating hypothyroidism.
  • Carbohydrate: Reduce or eliminate caffeine and sugar, including refined carbohydrates like flour, which the body treats like sugar.
  • Protein: Protein transports thyroid hormone to all the tissues and consumption of protein at each meal can help normalize thyroid function. Proteins include nuts and nut butters; quinoa; hormone- and antibiotic-free animal products (organic,grass-fed meats, eggs, and sustainably-farmed fish); and legumes.
  • Glutathione: Glutathioneis a powerful antioxidant that strengthens the immune system and is one of the pillars of fighting Hashimoto’s. It can boost the body’s ability to modulate and regulate the immune system, dampen autoimmune flare-ups and protect and heal thyroid tissue.
  • Medication Hypothyroidism can be easily treated using thyroid hormone medicine. The most effective and reliable thyroid replacement hormone is man-made (synthetic). Symptoms of hypothyroidism start to improve within the first week after you start treatment.

  • Thyroid medicine levothyroxine is generally prescribed. Diets rich in soy and high fiber can interfere with levothyroxine absorption. Medications and supplements also can reduce absorption. These include calcium supplements, iron supplements, cholestyramine and aluminum hydroxide (present in some antacids).
  • Lifestyle modification to manage PCOS

  • Lifestyle modifications such as weight loss and increased exercise in combination with a change in diet consistently reduce the risk of diabetes. This approach has been found to be comparable to or better than treatment with medication and should therefore be considered first-line treatment in managing women with PCOS.
  • These modifications have been effective in restoring ovulatory cycles and achieving pregnancy in obese women with PCOS. Weight loss in obese women with PCOS also improves hyper-androgenic features.
  • Medication for PCOS

  • Medical management of PCOS is aimed at the treatment of metabolic derangements, anovulation, hirsutism, and menstrual irregularity.
  • The use of insulin-sensitizing drugs  to improve insulin sensitivity is associated with a reduction in blood glucose levels, as well as improvement in both the ovulation rate and glucose tolerance.

  • First-line medical therapy usually consists of an oral contraceptive to induce regular menses. The contraceptive not only inhibits ovarian androgen production but also increases sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) production.
  • Treatment for ovulation induction when fertility is desired is clomiphene citrate.
  • Other natural treatment strategies include consumption of food supplements such as fenugreek seed extract – Furocyst®, which has been clinically proven to treat PCOS and its symptoms.

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Call : +91 9915002390

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CO-EXISTENCE OF PCOS AND HYPOTHYROIDISM