Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, or PCOS, can cause weight gain, ovarian cysts, irregular periods, and many other issues, including making it very difficult to become pregnant. However, there are also some symptoms of PCOS that you might not be familiar with, and that you’ll want to look out for, so you can have the right testing and medical care. Here are three uncommon PCOS symptoms to keep in mind.
- Low Vitamin D
Having good levels of vitamin D can help women who have PCOS control their insulin more easily, and may lower cholesterol and improve hormonal function. That has the potential to resolve or reduce some of the more troubling or potentially dangerous PCOS symptoms, helping women to feel better. Additionally, management of PCOS may make it easier to become pregnant.
- High Cholesterol
Many women who have PCOS also have high cholesterol. While the exact reason for this isn’t clear, it’s thought to be related to the insulin resistance frequently seen with this condition. If there are other PCOS symptoms along with elevated cholesterol it can be worth exploring whether this is a diagnosis that makes sense for the patient, so that it can be treated.
- Cravings for Sweets
Because women who have PCOS are often insulin resistant, that can cause them to crave sweet treats and anything with sugar in it. That’s because insulin resistance means blood sugar levels aren’t stable or being managed properly by the body. Seeking out carbs and sugar compounds those problems with insulin and can make PCOS worse. It can also result in difficulties with weight management.
Overall, PCOS and insulin resistance are closely tied together. While most medical professionals focus on the mood swings, insomnia, pelvic pain, and period-related concerns of women who have this condition, it’s important to remember that other issues may also point to a PCOS diagnosis. Discovering whether you have PCOS can make it easier for you to get important treatment for fertility issues and other concerns, so you want to make sure you’re well-informed about the kinds of symptoms to look out for.
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