Three Dimensional Healthcare Approach for Healthy Weight and Healthy Eating in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Abstract

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is the most common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age that manifests across the life span. It is the second most common cause of anovulatory infertility. It has wide range of clinical features grouped into physical, metabolic, reproductive and psychological features. Acne, male pattern alopecia, abnormal body hair, weight gain and central obesity are its most common physical features. Irregular/missed periods, presence of cysts on ovaries at time of ultrasound, disturbed Luteinizing Hormone/Follicle Stimulating Hormone ratio, difficulty in conceiving and spontaneous abortion in first trimester of pregnancy are its most common reproductive features. Dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia are metabolic features. Eating disorders, sleep disorders, body dissatisfaction, low self esteem, mood swings, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, suicidal attempts, self isolation and social phobias are most common psychological features. Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases (CVD), obstructive sleep apnea are common long term complications of this disease. Oral contraceptive pills are first line of treatment in this disorder. Weight loss through lifestyle modification is first line of weight management in this disorder. newlineDespite of its prevalence and increasing incidence awareness about the disease among young females is very low. The disease is still under diagnosed because not all females seek medical help. Healthcare practitioners are also not trained to address all the components of the disease at the same time. A multidisciplinary approach is warranted to manage different symptoms of the disease expressed at different stages of life and prevent long term complications. newlineBinge eating disorder is a psychiatric disorder commonly present in females diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Cognitive behavioral therapy, Interpersonal therapy are its management strategies. These strategies don t address weight loss and vice- versa.