Latest news with #PolycysticOvarianSyndrome
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Bride-to-Be Wanted to Look Thin at Her Wedding, but Excessive Dieting and Exercise Left Her Infertile
NEED TO KNOW Cynthia Donovan wanted to be thin for her wedding and became increasingly focused on diet and exercise as the big day approached After missing her period for years, doctors diagnosed her with hypothalamic amenorrhea at age 29 She wanted to have children, so she started eating more and exercising less, and eventually gave birth to two boysCynthia Donovan was a regular at the gym for years before her engagement. She prioritized health and fitness and had a nutrition plan to match. But after she got engaged in 2010 and the wedding date grew closer, she became increasingly focused on diet and exercise. "I started exercising more, I started eating less and cutting calories so I could look my best and have the body that I always wanted," Donovan tells PEOPLE. "And I think the wedding was a big, big motivator for me to become more disciplined." She ultimately saw results, but they came at a cost. "I was only focused on making sure I didn't eat this or ate that, and nothing got in the way of my exercise plans," Donovan says. "I look back, and I was just miserable. I wasn't even focused on the meaning of the wedding." She was also not having her period anymore. At the time, she thought it was because she had been on birth control pills for several years. She stopped — but her period did not reappear. Shortly after returning from her honeymoon, Donovan said she began a "scavenger hunt," visiting different doctors and undergoing testing to determine why her period was missing. Because she'd been taking birth control for so long (she'd gone back on it during wedding season, then stopped after she got married), she wasn't sure exactly when it disappeared. "They didn't think it was a big deal, because I wasn't trying to have babies at that particular time," she says. She was initially misdiagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and still had no period. Donovan became worried about her ability to have children someday. So she went to see a fertility specialist. "I wasn't ready for babies, but it made me ready, because I thought, what if I couldn't have them?" Donovan says. But none of the treatment options felt right, and she returned to her OBGYN, who referred her to a reproductive endocrinologist. The doctor recommended she eat more while cutting back on exercise. He eventually diagnosed Donovan with hypothalamic amenorrhea, which is when the hypothalamus — the control center of the brain — causes menstruation to stop, according to the Cleveland Clinic. "I did not like this answer, because I love to exercise, I love to eat healthy, I was a dietitian," Donovan recalls. "That's who I was, that's what I do, and you're telling me I can't do it anymore?" Donovan was 29 years old when she received the diagnosis, but she didn't immediately come to terms with it. "Finally, someone gave me an answer, but I didn't trust it at the time," she says, adding that she didn't believe she fit the typical description of a woman with HA because she didn't have an eating disorder or a low BMI. Never miss a story — sign up for to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. "It doesn't fit into this little pretty box of you have to be underweight or be anorexic or an athlete," she says. "You can just be your average gym-goer, average CrossFit athlete that works out daily." "I was caught between two worlds of like, 'God, maybe I do have to change my lifestyle.' But at the same time, the rest of the world is eating less and moving more, and there's women out there that can have babies and weigh less than me," she recalls. Finally, she convinced herself to follow the doctor's dietary recommendations. "I did start to nourish my body more, eat more, even though it felt wrong for me, because I spent so much of my life trying to be healthy, and I thought by eating more, that just automatically makes you unhealthy, which is far from the truth," Donovan says. Still, she worried her efforts might not be successful. Determined to become a mom, she also started fertility treatments, including Interuterine Insemination, which was "mentally and physically exhausting." Finally, the treatments worked, and Donovan had a "beautiful, healthy pregnancy," delivering her son Brian in August 2016. "I just never thought I would experience this feeling of holding a baby in my arms. Because I would dream about this," Donovan says. "I wanted to hold this baby, I wanted to be able to breastfeed. And so I think once I started not only nourishing my body, resting it more, I think that really helped move that needle for me." Her period returned when she was 12 months postpartum, while she was breastfeeding. A few months later, Donovan conceived again, this time naturally. "I think I took like 20 pregnancy tests," she says with a laugh. Her second son, Brayden, was born in September 2018 and the boys have become "best friends." Now, the registered dietitian hosts "The Period Recovery Podcast" and hopes others will treat their periods like a vital sign. Her advice for women facing similar health challenges is to "advocate for themselves, and if they're not getting the answers that they need, to continue to seek clarity for themselves." Read the original article on People
Time of India
10-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
PCOD or PCOS: Key differences, symptoms, causes, and prevention tips every woman should know
Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) are two of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women in their reproductive years. While these conditions are often confused due to overlapping symptoms, they are distinct in terms of severity, long-term health impacts, and treatment approaches. Understanding the differences between PCOD and PCOS is crucial for early detection and personalised treatment. While PCOD is relatively manageable with lifestyle changes, PCOS requires long-term medical attention to prevent complications like diabetes, infertility, and cardiovascular issues. A healthy lifestyle combined with regular checkups can greatly improve quality of life and reproductive health for women with either condition. Understanding PCOS and PCOD: How it affects body PCOS PCOS is a serious hormonal and metabolic disorder that causes the ovaries to produce an abnormally high level of androgens (male hormones). This hormonal imbalance interferes with the development and release of eggs during ovulation. How PCOS affects the body: The hormonal imbalance leads to irregular periods or no ovulation at all. Multiple immature follicles form into fluid-filled cysts in the ovaries. These cysts remain unreleased, disrupting fertility. Over time, PCOS can lead to insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular risks. Women with PCOS may also experience acne, excess facial or body hair, and difficulty in conception. Because of its systemic effects, PCOS typically requires medical treatment and long-term management. PCOD PCOD is a condition in which the ovaries release immature or partially mature eggs. These eggs accumulate and form cysts in the ovaries, which may cause the ovaries to enlarge. Common causes of PCOD Caused largely by lifestyle factors like poor diet, lack of physical activity, and stress. Leads to irregular menstruation, weight gain, and mild hormonal imbalances. Can be managed effectively through diet and exercise. Unlike PCOS, PCOD is less severe and doesn't always impact fertility. Many women with PCOD can conceive naturally or with minimal medical help. Key differences between PCOD and PCOS Feature PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) Severity Less severe More serious metabolic disorder Cause Lifestyle-related Endocrine (hormonal) dysfunction Ovulation Irregular, but often occurs Often absent due to anovulation Fertility Largely unaffected Can severely affect fertility Management Diet and lifestyle Requires medical treatment Risk factors Lower long-term risks Risk of diabetes, heart disease, infertility According to UNICEF , PCOS is more serious than PCOD due to its broader metabolic implications and impact on long-term health. PCOD and PCOS: Common symptoms Women may experience symptoms as early as their teenage years or only discover them later in life, especially when trying to conceive. The most common symptoms of both conditions include: Irregular or missed periods Heavy bleeding during periods Excessive facial or body hair (hirsutism) Acne on face, chest, or back Weight gain or difficulty losing weight Hair thinning or scalp hair loss Skin pigmentation (especially on the neck or under breasts) Difficulty conceiving PCOD and PCOS: Causes behind Excess androgen production: Both PCOS and PCOD involve elevated levels of male hormones, disrupting ovulation and causing physical symptoms like acne and hair growth. Insulin resistance: Insulin resistance is common in PCOS, contributing to higher androgen levels and increased fat storage. Lifestyle factors: Poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, stress, and sleep irregularities can trigger or worsen both PCOD and PCOS. Genetics: A family history of PCOS or irregular menstrual cycles can increase the risk of both conditions. Long-term complications of PCOS PCOS, when left untreated, can lead to several chronic health conditions, including: Type 2 diabetes Infertility or complications during pregnancy Endometrial cancer Hypertension and heart disease Anxiety, depression, and sleep apnea Obesity and metabolic syndrome Treatment options for PCOD and PCOS While there's no permanent cure, both conditions can be managed through a combination of lifestyle changes and medical treatment: Lifestyle modifications Weight loss: Losing 5–10% of body weight can regulate menstrual cycles and improve insulin sensitivity. Low-glycemic diet: Focus on high-fiber, low-sugar foods to stabilize insulin levels. Exercise: Moderate activity like brisk walking, yoga, or cycling improves hormonal balance. Medical treatments Hormonal therapy: Oral contraceptives to regularize periods and reduce androgen levels. Insulin-sensitizing drugs: Like metformin, especially in PCOS patients with insulin resistance. Fertility treatments: Ovulation-inducing medications (e.g., clomiphene) and assisted reproduction. Ovarian drilling: A laparoscopic procedure for patients with PCOS unresponsive to medication. Tips to manage PCOD and PCOS naturally Eat balanced meals rich in whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid refined sugars and trans fats. Get 7–9 hours of sleep daily. Practice stress-reducing activities like meditation, journaling, or walking. Stay hydrated and limit caffeine intake. PCODs and PCOS: Related FAQs What is the main difference between PCOD and PCOS ? PCOD is a lifestyle-related condition causing immature egg release, while PCOS is a hormonal disorder leading to high androgen levels and ovulation issues. Which is more serious—PCOD or PCOS? PCOS is more serious. It's a metabolic disorder that can cause infertility, diabetes, and heart disease if not managed properly. Can women with PCOD or PCOS get pregnant? Yes. PCOD usually allows natural pregnancy with minor help. PCOS may require fertility treatments due to irregular ovulation. What are common symptoms of PCOD and PCOS? Symptoms include irregular periods, acne, weight gain, hair thinning, and excess facial or body hair. How can PCOD and PCOS be managed naturally? Healthy diet, weight loss, regular exercise, and stress reduction can significantly improve symptoms of both conditions.
The Irish Sun
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
I lost 8 stone and shapeshifted into Millie Bobby Brown's double – people can't believe I'm the same person
A WOMAN has left people stunned after showing off the weight loss that saw her flooded with comparisons to Millie Bobby Brown. Heather managed to shed 121lbs (8st 6lbs) in a year when she tailored her diet and lifestyle to help her Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. 8 Heather has managed to shed almost 9 stone since overhauling her diet and exercise regime Credit: TikTok/@heatherpcosweightloss 8 She suffers from Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, so losing weight is harder, but after managing it, she's sharing her tips and tricks with others Credit: TikTok/@heatherpcosweightloss 8 Now she's shed the pounds, Heather is finding herself constantly compared to Stranger Things star Millie Bobby Brown Credit: TikTok/@heatherpcosweightloss 8 The likeness between herself and Millie isn't one that Heather can see - but others say they're "twins" Credit: Instagram And while people used to say she looks like U.S. chat show host Ricki Lake, her new appearance is closer to Stranger Things star Millie, social media commenters agreed. In a "Cysters, they've found out we can shapeshift, what shall we do?" she captioned the TikTok. Speaking to Fabulous Online, Heather insisted she "doesn't see" the likeness to Millie, but said "so many people have told me that on TikTok that I have just embraced it at this point!" "I've been told I looked like Ricki Lake before and now I look like Millie Bobby Brown," she added. "Both women are beautiful, and if it helps women find me so that they can have someone with PCOS who is in their corner advocating for them, I am all for it!" And people in the comments section of the TikTok admitted they were blown away by just how much Heather looks like Millie. "Omg you were not lying! You're her double!" one wrote. Most read in Fabulous "Holy sh*t you weren't kidding," another said. "I truly was not expecting that," a third commented. I'm so happy with my Mounjaro body after dropping 4 stone but there's a side effect I hate & trolls say I 'cheated' "I for real thought your friends were just hyping you up, but sissssster, you look just like her!" someone else agreed. "Oh my god!!! You really did shapeshift into Millie Bobby Brown!!" another gushed. "You look amazing. Proud of you!" "I was not prepared for the accuracy, but well done girl!!!" someone else said. "From a PCOS girly to another, I understand how HARD it is to achieve that!" "I thought this was gunna be a joke… you're literally her," another marvelled. The 5 best exercises to lose weight By Lucy Gornall, personal trainer and health journalist EXERCISE can be intimidating and hard to devote yourself to. So how do you find the right workout for you? As a PT and fitness journalist, I've tried everything. I've taken part in endless fitness competitions, marathons and I maintain a regime of runs, strength training and Pilates. Fitness is so entrenched in my life, I stick to it even at Christmas! The key is finding an activity you love that can become a habit. My top five forms of exercise, especially if you're trying to lose weight, are: Walking Running Pilates High-intensity interval training (HIIT) Strength training As someone else wrote: "Omg?? You were not exaggerating. Twins!" Others questioned just how Heather had managed her amazing transformation, and asked her for In response, she told Fabulous that "finding what works wasn't easy", but once she swapped her meal plan, added supplements and upped her physical activity, the weight started to come off. "Life finally feels so much easier," she smiled. Read more on the Irish Sun "I feel more like myself and I don't remember the last time I did. "People may see Millie in certain clips, but I finally see me!" 8 She was almost unrecognisable before she lost the weight Credit: TikTok/@heatherpcosweightloss 8 But will now happily show off her weight loss in tight ensembles Credit: TikTok/@heatherpcosweightloss 8 I lost 8 stone and shapeshifted into Millie Bobby Browns double – people cant believe Im the same person, , Credit: TikTok/@heatherpcosweightloss 8 Heather was previously compared to U.S. TV chat show host Ricki Lake, before she lost the weight Credit: Getty
Scottish Sun
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
I lost 8 stone and shapeshifted into Millie Bobby Brown's double – people can't believe I'm the same person
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A WOMAN has left people stunned after showing off the weight loss that saw her flooded with comparisons to Millie Bobby Brown. Heather managed to shed 121lbs (8st 6lbs) in a year when she tailored her diet and lifestyle to help her Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 8 Heather has managed to shed almost 9 stone since overhauling her diet and exercise regime Credit: TikTok/@heatherpcosweightloss 8 She suffers from Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, so losing weight is harder, but after managing it, she's sharing her tips and tricks with others Credit: TikTok/@heatherpcosweightloss 8 Now she's shed the pounds, Heather is finding herself constantly compared to Stranger Things star Millie Bobby Brown Credit: TikTok/@heatherpcosweightloss 8 The likeness between herself and Millie isn't one that Heather can see - but others say they're "twins" Credit: Instagram And while people used to say she looks like U.S. chat show host Ricki Lake, her new appearance is closer to Stranger Things star Millie, social media commenters agreed. In a video on TikTok, Heather shared her astonishing before and after snaps and clips, writing over the top: "POV: you lose 121lbs with PCOS & shapeshift into Millie Bobby Brown". "Cysters, they've found out we can shapeshift, what shall we do?" she captioned the TikTok. Speaking to Fabulous Online, Heather insisted she "doesn't see" the likeness to Millie, but said "so many people have told me that on TikTok that I have just embraced it at this point!" Read more Weight loss stories DUD DOSE The truth about why Ozempic-like fat jabs are FAILING to work for thousands of us "I've been told I looked like Ricki Lake before and now I look like Millie Bobby Brown," she added. "Both women are beautiful, and if it helps women find me so that they can have someone with PCOS who is in their corner advocating for them, I am all for it!" And people in the comments section of the TikTok admitted they were blown away by just how much Heather looks like Millie. "Omg you were not lying! You're her double!" one wrote. "Holy sh*t you weren't kidding," another said. "I truly was not expecting that," a third commented. I'm so happy with my Mounjaro body after dropping 4 stone but there's a side effect I hate & trolls say I 'cheated' "I for real thought your friends were just hyping you up, but sissssster, you look just like her!" someone else agreed. "Oh my god!!! You really did shapeshift into Millie Bobby Brown!!" another gushed. "You look amazing. Proud of you!" "I was not prepared for the accuracy, but well done girl!!!" someone else said. "From a PCOS girly to another, I understand how HARD it is to achieve that!" "I thought this was gunna be a joke… you're literally her," another marvelled. The 5 best exercises to lose weight By Lucy Gornall, personal trainer and health journalist EXERCISE can be intimidating and hard to devote yourself to. So how do you find the right workout for you? As a PT and fitness journalist, I've tried everything. I've taken part in endless fitness competitions, marathons and I maintain a regime of runs, strength training and Pilates. Fitness is so entrenched in my life, I stick to it even at Christmas! The key is finding an activity you love that can become a habit. My top five forms of exercise, especially if you're trying to lose weight, are: Walking Running Pilates High-intensity interval training (HIIT) Strength training As someone else wrote: "Omg?? You were not exaggerating. Twins!" Others questioned just how Heather had managed her amazing transformation, and asked her for weight loss tips. In response, she told Fabulous that "finding what works wasn't easy", but once she swapped her meal plan, added supplements and upped her physical activity, the weight started to come off. "Life finally feels so much easier," she smiled. "I feel more like myself and I don't remember the last time I did. "People may see Millie in certain clips, but I finally see me!" 8 She was almost unrecognisable before she lost the weight Credit: TikTok/@heatherpcosweightloss 8 But will now happily show off her weight loss in tight ensembles Credit: TikTok/@heatherpcosweightloss 8 I lost 8 stone and shapeshifted into Millie Bobby Browns double – people cant believe Im the same person, , Credit: TikTok/@heatherpcosweightloss
India.com
14-06-2025
- Health
- India.com
How To Manage And Reduce The Risk Of Gestational Diabetes?
When a woman who was not previously diabetic develops high blood sugar levels during the second or third trimester of pregnancy, it is known as Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM). If a woman aged 35 years or older has a history of Diabetes in their first degree relative like parents/siblings, has had Gestational Diabetes in a previous pregnancy, has delivered a large baby before, has Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), or has had multiple pregnancies. Also, certain ethnic groups, such as South Asians, and individuals with a sedentary lifestyle are also more prone to developing Gestational Diabetes during their pregnancy. Dr Farah Ingale, Senior Physician & Diabetologist, Director-Internal Medicine, Fortis Hiranandani Hospital Vashi shares how to manage and reduce the risk of gestational diabetes. GDM is mostly caused by hormonal changes happening in pregnancy that causes Insulin Resistance, genetic disposition can also be a cause for GDM. Classic symptoms of GDM include increased thirst, urination, fatiguability, wounds that do not heal, blurred vision, recurrent infections like of the urinary tract. Gestational Diabetes is diagnosed primarily through an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) and elevated blood sugar levels. Additional findings may include the presence of ketones in the urine, fetal macrosomia (a larger-than-average baby), or Polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid). GDM has long-term impact and complications that could impact both the foetus and the mother. If diagnosed with GDM. There is a 70 per cent risk of the mother developing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), and certain metabolic syndromes and cardiovascular issues if GDM is left untreated. Children born to mothers with GDM also run the risk of developing T2DM as they grow older. They can also develop cognitive defects. GDM is also associated with increased risk of kidney disease and cancers. GDM can have a significant psychosocial impact due to the lifestyle and dietary restrictions an individual must follow. It may also lead to immediate and short-term complications for both the mother and the baby. Developing nations have been severely impacted by the growing burden of GDM. To tackle this silent crisis, we need to implement preventative strategies like lifestyle modifications and maintaining a normal weight by eating a healthy balanced diet and regular physical activity. Avoid being sedentary and remain stress free and also go for regular medical check-ups. Consult a doctor who can help make a diet chart for you depending on your body's needs. Consume foods with low Glycaemic Index (GI) as they release sugar into the blood stream slowly and do not lead to a sudden glucose spike. Foods that fall in that category are Quinoa, whole Wheat, Oats, brown Rice, Almonds, Walnuts, Flaxseeds, pulses. Practise portion control and abide by strict meal timings. For pregnant women, with a history of Diabetes or Obesity preconception counselling and testing is very important. Early detection and management can reduce the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. If necessary, insulin is the preferred medication for managing Gestational Diabetes. Maintaining good blood sugar control can significantly reduce or even prevent complications. Postpartum care is also a crucial aspect of overall management. --
