In today’s day and age, PCOS is affecting almost every other woman. Our lifestyles, lower metabolism and overall stress levels lead to higher occurrence of PCOS and menstrual issues. Our menstrual cycles are deeply impacted by factors like hormones, stress, health and comorbidities but PCOS too can cause an imbalance in them. Missed or delayed cycles can not only impact fertility but cause unpleasant symptoms like PMS, bloating, mood swings and other issues. In this blog, we’ll understand how PCOS affects the period cycle and how to get it back on track. 

HOW PCOS AFFECTS PERIODS

On an average, a woman’s menstrual cycle lasts between 28-35 days, with a period ranging from 3-7 days. With PCOS, this cycle is affected for three main reasons

1. HIGHER ANDROGEN LEVELS

PCOS can trigger an overgrowth of testosterone, a known androgen and sex hormone. Primarily oestrogen levels dictate the date of ovulation and egg release. But with higher androgen levels, the ovulation timings get affected, causing fluctuations in the cycle. 

2. INSULINE RESISTANCE

PCOS is also a metabolic disorder, triggered by a high level of insulin in the body. These high insulin levels cause higher testosterone growth in the body, delaying periods in women. Additionally, high insulin levels affect fat breakdown in the body too, causing excessive weight gain. 

3. THICK ENDOMETRIAL LINING

Delayed ovulation also leads to delayed menstruation, which gives more time for the endometrial lining in the uterus to grow. When a woman finally gets her period, this thick lining will cause more cramps and painful symptoms. 

HOW DELAYED ARE PERIODS DURING PCOS?

No two women will experience PCOS period issues the same way. Some may have periods only for 2 days with a light flow every month, while others may skip cycles entirely for a couple of months.

Periods for women with PCOS are known to be very painful, and uncomfortable with their buildup causing gas, bloating, gut issues and weight gain. 

COMMON SYMPTOMS TO LOOK OUT FOR

1. Irregular Periods

It may be tougher to predict your periods and track your cycle as the cycle may vary from month to month. 

2. Heavy Bleeding

Periods may be unpredictable, with some months skipped entirely and others featuring light spotting or heavy bleeding at unusual intervals.

3. Amenorrhea (Missed Periods) 

Some women with PCOS may go several months without a period, a condition called amenorrhea. This happens because of delayed ovulation.

4. Painful Periods

PCOS can create multiple cysts in the ovaries, which can lead to pain in the pelvis. During menstruation, women can have severe cramps and fatigue as the body sheds the thick lining. 

HACKS TO GET YOUR MENSTRUAL CYCLE ON TRACK

1. TRACK YOUR WEIGHT GAIN

Maintaining a healthy weight can help regulate periods and reduce PCOS symptoms. Trying to eat a low-sugar diet and raw vegetables can improve metabolic rates and insulin resistance. 

2. NATURAL SUPPLEMENTS

Myo-inositol supplements promote regular periods as they can tackle insulin resistance and regulate oestrogen levels in the body. 

3. EXERCISE

Regular exercise helps regulate periods and improve PCOS symptoms. Activities like yoga, swimming, or running can promote fat breakdown, and improve energy levels and mood for women. 

4. 8 HOURS OF SLEEP

Menstrual issues like PMS can disrupt sleep. By following a timetable for sleep, it can bring back your circadian rhythm and boost your overall well-being. 

5. HOME REMEDIES

Adding anti-inflammatory foods like ginger, turmeric, and papaya to your diet can support overall health. While not a cure, a balanced diet rich in nutrients is always beneficial.

CONCLUSION 

Delayed periods can become a major cause for concern, especially for women trying to get pregnant or facing other health issues like diabetes or cardiac issues. It’s not only the inability to plan your cycles but also the discomfort other symptoms can cause. It’s essential to understand that PCOS is a disorder and not a disease. While it can’t be completely cured, it can be managed with simple lifestyle changes and a healthy diet and routine. It’s also essential to aid your nutritional levels with supplements and reduce stress levels, as it can be the best solution to get things in order.