Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome “PCOS” and Pelvic Pain
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is not as simple as its name may imply. It is not a condition that affects just the reproductive system.
Unfortunately, the name PCOS is a misnomer that is not only misleading to the general public but often creates misunderstanding among providers as well. Yet, despite this misunderstanding, it is extremely common. It is estimated that 1 in 10 women are projected to have PCOS.
What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome?
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (also known as “PCOS”) is a condition in which abnormal levels of androgens are produced. It is a hormone imbalance that affects the way we metabolize food and energy.
PCOS can potentially interfere with the communication and signaling of hormones involved in fertility, menstrual cycles, and metabolic health.
Image credit: Mayo Clinic
Pelvic health expert Antionette Gagliard shares more about PCOS in this video:
Symptoms of PCOS
Most women with PCOS will experience the following symptoms:
- irregular periods
- acne or hair growth on the face or jaw line
- pelvic pain
- abdominal pain
- pain during intercourse
Some women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome have multiple cysts on the ovaries – however, many women with PCOS do not.
The Rotterdam Criteria is a tool that helps determine whether or not someone has a collection of symptoms consistent with PCOS.
If two out of the following three criteria are met, without an alternative medical explanation, that person should be followed up with by a medical provider trained in working with PCOS.
Rotterdam Criteria
The following make up the Rotterdam Criteria:
- Signs of elevated androgen hormones, include:
- acne, especially on the back, chest, and jawline
- male pattern hair loss
- excess hair growth on the face, inner thigh, low back, chest, abdomen
- History of Irregular Periods
- Polycystic appearing ovaries
Given the lack of general understanding of the condition, it may sound like PCOS is rare. Unfortunately, 1 in 10 women are projected to have it. So why is it important to talk about?
Treating PCOS
Not only is PCOS the leading cause of infertility due to its effects on ovulation, but it is also a strong risk factor for Type II Diabetes. Women with PCOS also have a heightened risk for weight gain and high blood pressure. Treating PCOS as if it is something that applies only while a woman is trying to conceive sets them up for vulnerability to other serious health concerns.
Research supports nutrition and lifestyle changes as the first line of treatment for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Unfortunately, that is often not carried out in practice. As PCOS affects metabolic health, it is crucial to have a Registered Dietician on your team who can help create a plan based on their assessment and your needs. It is also important to consult medical experts informed on the condition, including a Gynecologist and Endocrinologist.
PCOS and Pelvic Health
Working with a Pelvic Health Physical Therapist can be helpful during parts of your fertility journey, as can building an exercise program to improve your body’s metabolic response.
There is no universal PCOS-fixing protocol or diet, as people have individual needs outside of the diagnosis- you are not your PCOS! A good team of providers will also understand why collaborating is important to build the individualized program you deserve.
Together, these interventions help to decrease the risk of chronic disease and improve the quality of life for women with PCOS.
How Pelvic Health Physical Therapy Can Help With PCOS
At Pillar Kinetic, we provide pelvic floor therapy to address several health issues, including Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. As a pelvic health specialist, we can help you strengthen your pelvic muscles and reduce pelvic pain.
In addition to PCOS, Pelvic floor therapy can also help solve several other health conditions, including:
Contact out Las Vegas physical therapy clinic to learn more here or contact our team with any further questions we can help with.