Stress and PCOS: How to Manage It

Stress is positively associated with PCOS and previous studies of the levels of stress hormones among PCOS and healthy women, serum Cortisol and DHEA were found to be significantly elevated in PCOS women compared to healthy controls.

Cortisol, the primary stress hormone and DHEA is the hormone that is responsible for in

creased body and facial hair, deepening of the voice and irregular periods.

Stress is a common problem for people with PCOS. It can be caused by a variety of factors, such as work, relationships, finances, and health problems. Stress can make PCOS symptoms worse. For example, it can make it more difficult to lose weight, worsen acne, and increase the risk of hair loss, so it is very important to learn how to handle stressful situations that can crop up.

There are a number of things that PCOS sufferers can do to manage stress. Here are a few tips:

• Exercise regularly. Exercise is a great way to relieve stress and improve your overall health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

• Get enough sleep. When you're well-rested, you're better able to cope with stress. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.

• Eat a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet can help improve your mood and energy levels, which can help you better manage stress.

• Practice relaxation techniques. There are many different relaxation techniques that can help reduce stress, such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing.

• Talk to someone you trust. Talking about your stress can help you feel better and cope with it more effectively. Don’t bottle it up or pretend you are not feeling a certain way. Try to acknowledge your feelings.

If you are struggling to manage stress on your own, talk to your doctor. They can help you develop a personalised stress management plan.

Here are some additional tips for PCOS sufferers who are trying to keep calm:

• Set realistic goals. Don't try to do too much at once, or you'll just end up feeling more stressed.

• Take breaks throughout the day. Get up and move around, or take a few minutes to relax and clear your head.

• Avoid caffeine and alcohol. These substances can worsen anxiety and stress.

• Spend time with loved ones. Social support can help you cope with stress.

• Do something you enjoy. Make time for activities that you find relaxing and enjoyable.

Most importantly be patient with yourself. It takes time to learn how to manage stress effectively. Don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately.

Managing stress is an important part of living with PCOS. By following these tips, you can reduce your stress levels and improve your overall health and well-being.