Polycystic ovary/ovarian syndrome, or PCOS, is a condition that affects 5 to 10 percent of childbearing women in the United States, according to the U.S. National Women's Health Information Center. PCOS occurs when your body makes more androgens, or "male hormones," than it should. In addition to irregular menstrual cycles and fertility problems, this hormonal imbalance can cause weight gain and may be linked to insulin and diabetes. Losing weight may help reduce symptoms and keep your PCOS under control.
Step 1
Manage your PCOS with the help of your doctor. There is no cure, but the condition can be treated based on your symptoms and whether you want to become pregnant. Medications that help promote ovulation, such as clomiphene and gonadotropins, can treat fertility problems and regulate your cycle; if you don't want to become pregnant in the near future, taking a progestin-only birth control pill can regulate your cycle, clear acne and reduce the production of male hormones in your body.
Step 2
Ask your doctor about taking metformin. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat type 2 diabetes, metformin may also help manage PCOS, although this is an off-label use. Metformin can lower testosterone production and decrease body mass and cholesterol levels. It is also used in conjunction with clomiphene to stimulate ovulation, which may help with fertility problems.
Step 3
Lead a healthy lifestyle. Cut processed foods and added sugars out of your diet, and base your meals on whole grains, fruits, vegetables and lean protein. Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine; a 2008 study showed that overweight women need an hour of exercise on at least five days per week to help them lose weight. In some cases, weight loss alone may be enough to restore normal menstrual cycles.
Step 4
Consider bariatric surgery if you are morbidly obese. A doctor can help you decide if this life-altering surgery is right for you; it can help you lose weight and lessen PCOS symptoms if other weight-loss methods have failed.
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