Question 1

What medications are helpful to treat PCOS?

Accepted Answer

Medications for PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) patients are meant to tackle various issues linked to this condition. Here, I'll break it down for you in a more familiar way:

Oral Contraceptive Pills: These pills are like the ones used for birth control, but they also help to set your monthly cycle right. The estrogen in them also helps to reduce excessive hair growth, which can be quite a bother. Certain health issues need to be ruled out before starting this treatment.

Anti-androgens: These medicines, like Spironolactone, are used to deal with the extra testosterone in your body. They can help with problems like irregular periods, too much hair where you don't want it, and acne by bringing down the effects of high testosterone levels.

Anti-diabetic Medications: PCOS often leads to a problem with insulin in the body, which can make you prone to diabetes. Your doctor might give you medicines like Metformin and Liraglutide. These drugs help your body use insulin better and reduce body weight.

These medicines, when your doctor advises them, can help you handle PCOS symptoms and reduce the chances of health issues down the road. It's always a good idea to talk to your doctor about what's right for you.

Question 2

What are the supplements to manage PCOS

Accepted Answer

High-quality research on the effectiveness  of various suppements for treating different PCOS symptoms is lacking. Therefore, it is advisable to consider these products on a case-by-case basis, with guidance from healthcare professionals such as your family physician, specialists, registered dietitian, or pharmacist. While there have been reports suggesting potential benefits, such as improvements in menstrual regularity, ovarian function, and hormone levels, it's essential to note that inositol is not approved for PCOS treatment in Canada.

Similarly, natural health products, including fish oil and algae sources of long-chain fatty acids, have been explored.

When it comes to dairy products, while there hasn't been extensive research on their direct impact on PCOS, whole-fat dairy items can help with satiety due to their fat and protein content. Including dairy in a well-balanced diet is recommended because these products contain valuable fats, vitamins, and minerals crucial for immune function, anti-inflammatory response, and bone health. However, it's important to be aware of added sugars in some dairy products and opt for those with minimal or no added sugar content.

Furthermore, various vitamin-like supplements, such as bioflavonoids, carnitine, and alpha-lipoic acid (α-LA), have recognized antioxidant properties and potential metabolic benefits in PCOS by influencing fatty acid and glucose metabolism. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids, N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC), CoQ10, probiotics, quercetin, resveratrol, melatonin, and antioxidant-rich foods like those in the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet have been explored for their potential benefits in PCOS management. It's worth considering these options, especially for individuals with high insulin levels, as low glycemic index, high-fiber foods have been shown to reduce insulin levels in PCOS.

Lastly, regarding Vitamin D and PCOS, it's important to maintain an adequate level of this vitamin, as it plays a role in various bodily functions. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate supplementation and dosage based on your individual needs and circumstances.

Question 3

Is it possible to reverse PCOS?

Accepted Answer

While PCOS is not curable, evidence from RCTs backs lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and medical treatments for symptom management. Natural approaches may show improvement, but caution is needed; consulting healthcare professionals is vital. Scientifically proven strategies, like maintaining a healthy weight, following a low-carb, high-fiber diet, and moderate exercise, effectively manage PCOS symptoms, enhancing insulin sensitivity and hormonal balance. Despite claims of natural "reversal," the medical focus is on symptom control and complications reduction through evidence-based approaches. PCOS experiences vary, emphasizing the importance of consulting healthcare professionals, including gynecologists, endocrinologists, and dietitians, for tailored treatment plans based on individual needs and health goals.

Question 4

What criteria determine a PCOS diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Presence of irregular menses/ovulation, acne/excessive hair growth, increased testosterone/androgen levels, with or without multiple small ovarian cysts