Inflammatory PCOS: Unraveling the Impact on Hormonal Balance and Fertility

The problem of PCOS is common, but cure is impossible. Due to this problem, the menstrual cycle is affected and it becomes difficult for the woman to conceive. PCOS directly affects the ovaries, while the hormones required for ovulation and menstruation – estrogen and progesterone – are produced by the ovaries. PCOS affects 5-15 percent of women. Symptoms of PCOS can be as follows -

• Irregular periods – This may include missed periods, frequent periods, or no periods at all.
• Excessive hair – This is also called hirsutism. This occurs when you have more than the normal amount of hair on your face, chin, legs or other parts of the body.
• Acne – It is common for a woman suffering from PCOS to have acne on the face, chest and upper back.
• Hair fall – The hair on the head becomes thin and starts falling.
• Weight gain – People suffering from PCOS often have trouble losing weight.
• Ovary cysts – These small cysts are fluid-filled sacs and can form in one or both ovaries.

Many medical researchers have proven that there is a direct relationship between PCOS and chronic inflammation. People suffering from PCOS are more likely to have certain markers in their blood that indicate inflammation. Inflammation is normal after an injury or virus, which is a process by the immune system to repair the problem, but if the inflammation is chronic or prolonged, it can cause many problems.

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Chronic inflammation is commonly caused by autoimmune conditions – such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. In this condition the immune system mistakenly starts damaging the healthy tissues of the body. The problem of chronic inflammation can last for several months or years. Other causes of chronic inflammation are as follows –

• Oxidative Stress
• Obesity
• Psychological Stress
• Bad Lifestyle
• Smoking

Chandraprabha vati can be used by both men and women to reduce infection and inflammation, to balance hormones, to cure burning sensation and pain during urination, to prevent PCOD/PCOS, urinary tract infection, abnormal discharge, etc.

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Scientists do not yet have any clear information about what is the main reason behind PCOS. At present, there is a combination of genetic and other factors behind it, which are as follows -

• High Androgens – Androgens are known as male hormones. Androgen levels in women suffering from PCOS are higher than in normal female individuals.
• High Insulin – When PCOS occurs, the body becomes insulin resistant, which means that the body of a woman suffering from this disease does not use insulin as effectively as it should. In such a situation the body produces more insulin.
• Increased Inflammation – Levels of inflammation can be measured by looking at certain biomarkers in the blood, including C-reactive protein (CRP). CRP levels are higher than normal in women with PCOS.

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The inflammation problem associated with PCOS can lead to many health complications, such as –

If there is PCOS, it becomes difficult for the woman to get pregnant due to chronic inflammation. The functioning of the ovaries may be affected due to swelling. PCOS can interfere with ovulation, reducing the chances of a healthy egg being released from the ovary. Due to this, implantation of the egg also becomes difficult.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than half of women suffering from PCOS develop type 2 diabetes before the age of 40. According to a major medical research, women suffering from PCOS are four times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than normal women. Chronic inflammation, insulin resistance and excess weight together lead to type 2 diabetes.

The risk of heart disease increases in people suffering from PCOS. Oxidative stress, which is related to inflammation, can affect your heart over time. It is also considered common for a woman suffering from PCOS to have high BP and stroke.

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Reducing inflammation in the body can help reduce the risk of complications from PCOS. Come, let us know how swelling can be reduced -

Taking an anti-inflammatory diet can help reduce the symptoms of PCOS. It is not necessary that one type of diet benefits everyone. Therefore, before choosing an anti-inflammatory diet for yourself, definitely take the advice of a dietitian. Also keep distance from the following types of foods -

• Refined Carbohydrates (White Bread, Pastries, Donuts, Cakes)
• Milk, Cheese And Dairy Products
• Sugary Snacks And Beverages
• Processed Meat
• Liquor
• Foods With Preservatives

Regular exercise can be beneficial in reducing the complications of PCOS. Getting regular exercise can help reduce inflammation, improve insulin resistance and help maintain weight. Regular exercise can also reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Research says that exercising for at least 120 minutes a week can be beneficial. These can be included in exercise -

• Jogging
• Swimming
• High Intensity Interval Training (Hiit)
• Kickboxing

Some other methods can also help in reducing swelling in the body. Although, there is no scientific evidence regarding these methods, but may prove beneficial in overall health -

• Taking anti-inflammatory supplements like vitamin D, fish oil, spirulina and ginger.
• Take help of acupuncture.
• Reducing stress and anxiety through meditation.
• Avoiding exposure to chemicals, air pollution and other environmental toxins.

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Inflammatory PCOS is not a specific type of PCOS. Most women with PCOS have high levels of chronic inflammation. Due to chronic inflammation and PCOS, many physical problems can arise, such as type 2 diabetes and obesity etc. Although PCOS cannot be completely cured, the risk problems caused by PCOS and inflammation can be reduced by making changes in lifestyle.