PCOS and Irregular Bleeding: What to Do

While many women may not need a calendar to know the exact date to expect their periods, some women who unfortunately suffer from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) prefer to keep a log to monitor and measure their periods – when and if they even take place.  When women with PCOS have periods, the 4 or 5 days of the month could potentially become a nightmare for them. The bleeding is unusual, sometimes heavy and painful. They might not even be able to tell when next to expect the periods. So, what gives? What causes irregular periods for those with PCOS and how can you manage it or support a loved one dealing with such?

What is PCOS?

PCOS is a health condition that affects the hormone level in women. Women with this condition produce higher amounts of male hormones. The high level of hormone production causes hormonal imbalance that causes them to have irregular periods or skipped periods. The condition affects women aged 15 to 44 years. According to NCBI, at least 2.2 and 22.7 percent women in this age group are known to have PCOS. Another 70% don’t know if they have PCOS until they are diagnosed, which calls for regular reporting and monitoring of cycles.

What causes PCOS?

It’s not clear what causes PCOS, but doctors believe that the production of high male hormone levels prevent the ovaries from operating optimally. The hormone mostly produced is the androgen hormone. Other things linked to excess androgen release include insulin resistance, genes, and inflammation.

Managing and treating PCOS and irregular periods

Any woman with PCOS is facing an issue with her ovaries receiving appropriate hormonal signals. Without the signals from the pituitary gland, you won’t be able to ovulate every month which will cause your periods to be irregular, untimely or even heavier-than-usual.

What can you do about PCOS?

Some of the most common medical treatments for PCOS include:

Metformin

Metformin is used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. The same drug can also be used to treat PCOS by improving your insulin levels.

Clomiphene

Clomid or clomiphene is a fertility drug used to help women with PCOS get pregnant. The drug also increases the risk of having twins, meaning you need to see your gynecologist before you use them and ensure you are aware of the implications.

Birth control

Birth control pills or birth control medication includes taking of progestin and estrogen to restore your hormone balance, relieve PCOS symptom and regulate ovulation. The pills or medication is said to help protect you against endometrial cancer.

Getting your menstrual cycle back on track while facing PCOS requires knowledge and a game plan. To help you along the journey, Apele is happy to have created a temporary solution to managing any leaks, stains or untimely spotting that may occur during your daily life. Browse our many different lines of undies that give you coverage and confidence to continue on your day and on your way without worrying about leaks or mishaps.