PCOS- What Type Do You Have?
PCOS is still a relatively new condition and researchers are still uncovering the complexities and different presentations of the condition. There are multiple different ways of categorising PCOS and the symptoms that prevail. I have based my categories off the incredible and well renowned and trusted Lara Briden. Continue reading to gain insight into the different presentations of PCOS and see which category you feel like you may fall into.
There are a few key factors that are usually common among all types of PCOS such as hormonal dysregulation, HPA dysfunction, inflammation, glucose sensitivity, increased androgens (60-80% of PCOS suffers have increased androgens), altered FSH to LH ratios, and cysts on the ovaries. Now with all that being set aside, lets dive into the different presentations of PCOS
Insulin Resistant PCOS
This type of PCOS is usually categorised by reduced insulin sensitivity which means that your cells and your body are unable to metabolise glucose properly. Individuals who experience this type of PCOS also usually gain weight easily and find it hard to lose weight. They may find that they also gain more weight on their abdominal region. Unfortunately, this type of PCOS can also be more prone to developing type II diabetes and metabolic syndrome if the symptoms and presenting complaint is not dealt with effectively,
Symptoms of having higher levels of insulin are
extreme thirst
Increased urination
Fatigue
Feeling hungry after a meal
Tingling hands and feet
Skin tags
Dark and velvety skin
Being overweight
Carrying excessive fat on the abdomen
Post Pill PCOS
This occurs when individuals come off the pill and may experience irregular cycles despite having had a regular cycle prior to the pill. Post-pill PCOS occurs when you stop taking the pill and get a surge in androgens.
Symptoms include
Increased male pattern hair distribution
Acne
Unexplained fatigue
Regular cycle prior to the pill
Missing or irregular cycles once ceasing the pill
Hormonal imbalances
Hair loss
Inflammatory PCOS
This type of PCOS occurs due to a large amount of inflammation being present in the body. This inflammation is usually due to chronic immune activation, caused by stress, increase intestinal permeability, environmental toxins, and pro-inflammatory foods. The clinical presentation of this type of PCOS presents with increased levels of testosterone and androgens.
Symptoms include:
Fatigue
Digestive issues
Brain fog or headaches
Joint or muscle pain and stiffness
Water retention
Chronic skin conditions
Allergies
Hidden cause PCOS
This is caused by a lifestyle factor or diet which is preventing ovulation such as a low carb diet, too much soy, thyroid conditions, vegetarian diet, iron deficiency, artificial sweeteners or an iodine deficiency. Pretty much, you are living a lifestyle that your body does not thrive on or you’re exposed to a stressor that makes your body feel ‘stressed’ and therefore prevents menstruation.
The symptoms for this type of PCOS will vary depending on what your causing factor is.
Adrenal PCOS
This is caused when the body experiences PCOS-like symptoms when you are experiencing stress. Instead of testosterone being elevated a hormone produced by the adrenal glands- DHEA-s secreted in higher quantities. It is an epigenetic upregulation of adrenal androgens which affects your menstrual cycle and wellbeing.
Symptoms of excessive stress/ adrenal PCOS could be:
Finding it hard to fall asleep or waking up early in the morning
Heart racing
Increased or decreased appetite
Fat build up around your abdomen due to increased cortisol
Forgetfulness
Irritability
Fatigue
Feeling tired when you wake up in the morning.
I get it, all these symptoms and challenges that come with having PCOS can be very overwhelming and distressing. I have been in that position to sister! The great news is that, YES there are plenty of fantastic natural alternatives that can be utilised to help manage the symptoms or even reverse PCOS. There is also lots of incredible research into these natural alternatives which provide valuable evidence for natural medicine.
What’s even more exciting is that I am also in the process of writing up some material to help empower you with the knowledge and information to manage your PCOS! Stay tuned for more information.
If you think that you may have one of these conditions I urge you to get in contact with a health professional who can point you in the right direction and get the suitable tests done for you. None of this information disclosed is to replace proper medical information.
References:
Bharathi, R. V., Swetha, S., Neerajaa, J., Madhavica, J. V., Janani, D. M., Rekha, S. N., ... & Usha, B. (2017). An epidemiological survey: Effect of predisposing factors for PCOS in Indian urban and rural population. Middle East Fertility Society Journal, 22(4), 313-316.
Balen, A. (2004). The pathophysiology of polycystic ovary syndrome: trying to understand PCOS and its endocrinology. Best practice & research clinical obstetrics & gynaecology, 18(5), 685-706
https://www.larabriden.com/4-types-of-pcos-a-flowchart/