Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Exercise

PCOS is a hormonal disorder which affects 8-13% of women within a reproductive age range. It is categorised by cysts that form on the outside of the ovaries resulting in a higher-than-normal production of male hormones. This causes a variety of psychological, metabolic and reproductive complications. 

Each individual woman will experience different symptoms of PCOS, however these may include:

·       Menstrual dysfunction (specifically oligo or ammenorhea; <21 or > 35 days or < 8 cycles per year);

·       Alopecia (loss of hair) or Hirsutism (excessive hair growth);

·       Obesity and issues around weight gain;

·       Infertility;

·       Acne;

·       Poor psychological and emotional well being (anxiety, depression, poor body image);

·       Insulin Resistance – relating to an increased risk of diabetes;

·       Increased cardiovascular risk factors.

Long Term Health Risks:

·       Obesity;

·       T2DM (Type 2 Diabetes);

·       Risk Factors for heart Disease;

·       Infertility.

In order to manage PCOS, exercise and diet have been shown to be the most effective strategies to manage symptoms! 

Exercise has a variety of benefits for women with PCOS, it improves:

·       Period Regularity;

·       Insulin Sensitivity – therefore reducing risk of diabetes;

·       Weight gain management and prevention;

·       Fertility;

·       Fitness and strength;

·       Energy levels;

·       Self-Confidence;

·       Psychologically well – being.

Our Exercise Physiologists have a key understanding of exercise prescription and programming to help manage endocrine and metabolic conditions. 

Also Read:

Women’s Health and Exercise | Athletic Performance and the Menstrual Cycle | Pregnancy and Exercise | Post Natal Exercise | Endometriosis and Exercise | Menopause and Exercise | Osteoporosis and Exercise