S2, Episode 4: Living with PCOS

In this episode, Meredith and I discuss

What is PCOS and what are the symptoms?

• PCOS is polycystic ovarian syndrome or PCOD - polycystic ovarian disorder

  • It is thought of as a reproductive issue BUT

  • It’s a metabolic disorder because it affects overall health

  • To be diagnosed, you must meet two of three criteria

    • Absent or irregular period

    • High testosterone or androgens (can show up as facial hair, hair loss, belly)

    • Cysts on ovaries 

Why is it so hard for PCOS to be diagnosed?

• Most people are advocating for themselves

• Because PCOS is considered a reproductive syndrome, some doctors may ignore it until a client is trying to get pregnant

• Often, issues relating to periods are dismissed

• Birth control can be prescribed as a solution but will not fix hormonal imbalance

What is the relationship between PCOS and conception?

• If you have an absent or irregular period, you are ovulating less often

• This makes it more difficult to get pregnant

• Many people with PCOS are prescribed a medication called clomid and told to have timed intercourse 

• Depending on the person, they may be prescribed other medication to increase fertility

How does PCOS affect pregnancy?

• People with PCOS can be considered high-risk

• There is an increased risk of having gestational diabetes

How is PCOS traditionally treated?

• Doctors are told to reduce calories and exercise more 

• While this might fix some issues, it won’t completely solve issues with period or hormones

• Many people are prescribed birth control, but it will not fix hormones 

• Some are prescribed metformin, a diabetes medication to regulate blood sugar; for some, it helps with starting a period and losing weight 

• Fertility specialists might prescribe supplements to balance hormones depending on blood work

What lifestyle changes can people make to treat PCOS?

• First, learn more about PCOS and the hormone imbalance causing it 

  Focus on fixing the root cause (the hormone imbalance,) not the symptoms

  Focus on one or two changes at a time

  Some easy changes are

  • Drink water

  • Avoid trendy diets

  • Reduce processed food

  For meal planning

  • Choose a protein

  • Choose more low-carb, low-sugar fruits and veggies 

  • Cook food in healthy fats and oils

  For lifestyle 

  • Observe and learn about your triggers

  • Find ways to meal plan / meal prep

  • Don’t completely avoid sweets, but find ways to integrate them into your life so it’s balanced and fulfilling

What is your favorite resource?

• The PCOS Plan by Jason Fung and Nadia Brito Pateguana

You can find Meredith on her Instagram or website

Enjoy the episode!

Meredith is a PCOS coach who empowers people with PCOS balance hormones and build confidence by making simple nutrition and lifestyle changes. You’ll hear us chat about what PCOS is, it’s symptoms, how it affects fertility and pregnancy, and how it’s treated.