Vitamins for pcos acne, Vitamins for pcos and infertility, Vitamins for pcos facial hair and so many others. What do all these terms mean? Do you know what vitamins are good for PCOS? Do you have any idea about the benefits of the vitamins that you can take for PCOS?
Vitamins for pcos is a well-known formative factor that a lot of women need to be taken into account. The main reason for this is because it has been proven that your vitamin intake directly impacts how pcos affects you in many ways. You see, your body needs certain nutrients to function properly and there are many benefits that you get by taking them on a regular basis.
vitamins for pcos
Pcos is a term that stands for Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome. It’s a condition where the body produces too much of an enzyme called malehormone and this in turn can cause irregular cycles, infertility problems, acne and facial hair growth. This diet will help you control excess levels of PCOS hormones while improving your appearance and mental sharpness as well.
Vitamins are an essential part of a healthy diet. Although there are different types of vitamins, it is vitamin A and D that affect your skin. Vitamins A and D have several functions in the body that include maintaining eye health and increasing cell growth.
Vitamins are essences of life. They are a key tool to keep the body healthy, and quell many common health problems. While most people aren’t truly aware of vitamins, they can be found in foods that we eat every day.
vitamins for pcos and infertility
Things to consider
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most commonTrusted Source endocrine condition among U.S. women of reproductive age. Its symptoms include:
ovarian cysts
irregular periods
acne
thinning hair
weight gain
Researchers sayTrusted Source the causes of PCOS are complicated, but insulin resistance and hormone regulation are key factors.
You may be able to manage these factors and ease your symptoms through lifestyle changes and dietary supplements, but there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment.
You should always talk with your doctor before you try any alternative treatment. They can discuss possible dosage, side effects, and interactions.
Diet changes
Eating the right foods and avoiding certain ingredients may help you manage your symptoms. A nourishing diet can help regulate your hormones and your menstrual cycle. Eating processed, heavily preserved foods can contribute to inflammation and insulin resistance.
It’s all about whole foods
Whole foods are free from artificial sugars, hormones, and preservatives. These foods are as close to their natural, unprocessed state as possible. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes are whole foods that you can add to your diet.
Without hormones and preservatives, your endocrine system can better regulate your blood sugar.
Balance carb and protein intake
Carbohydrates and protein both impact your energy and hormone levels. Eating protein stimulatesTrusted Source your body to produce insulin. Unprocessed, high-carb foodsTrusted Source can improve insulin sensitivity. Instead of trying a low-carb diet, focus on getting enough healthy protein.
Plant-based protein sources, such as nuts, legumes, and whole grains, are bestTrusted Source.
Aim for anti-inflammatory
PCOS is described by one studyTrusted Source as low-level chronic inflammation. Adding anti-inflammatory foods to your diet can help ease your symptoms.
Consider the Mediterranean diet as an option. Olive oil, tomatoes, leafy greens, fatty fish like mackerel and tuna, and tree nuts all fight inflammation.
Up your iron intake
Some women with PCOS experience heavy bleeding during their period. This can result in iron deficiency or anemia. If your doctor has diagnosed you with either condition, talk with them about how you can up your iron intake. They may recommend adding iron-rich foods such as spinach, eggs, and broccoli to your diet.
You shouldn’t up your iron intake without first consulting your doctor. Too much iron can increase your riskTrusted Source of complications.
Up your magnesium intake
Almonds, cashews, spinach, and bananas are PCOS-friendly foods rich in magnesium.
Add in some fiber to help with digestion
A diet high in fiber can help improve your digestion. Lentils, lima beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, pears, and avocados are all rich in fiber.
Cut out coffee
Caffeine consumption may be linked to changesTrusted Source in estrogen levels and hormone behavior. Try boosting your energy with a decaf alternative, such as an herbal tea. Kombucha’s probiotic properties may also be beneficial.
And if you can’t go without a caffeine boost, reach for green tea instead. Green tea has been shownTrusted Source to improve insulin resistance. It can also help with weight management in women with PCOS.
Consider soy products
Before adding more soy to your diet, ask your doctor about the latest research. Soy acts like estrogen in your body. This might help balance hormones if you have PCOS. But there’s also evidenceTrusted Source that adding soy to your diet could disrupt your endocrine system.
People with a family history of estrogen-related cancers, such as some breast cancers, should avoid soy products. If your doctor approves adding soy to your diet, consider soy milk, tofu, miso, and tempeh.
Supplements
Supplements claim to help with hormone regulation, insulin resistance, and inflammation associated with PCOS.
Supplements aren’t regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Speak to your doctor before taking any supplement. Some of them can actually interfere with other prescribed PCOS treatments and medications.
Inositol
Inositol is a B vitamin that can help improve insulin resistance. It’s also been found to help with fertility in some cases of PCOS.
ChromiumTrusted Source
Chromium supplements may improveTrusted Source your body mass index, which can help with PCOS. They may also stabilize insulin resistance by helping your body metabolize sugar.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon comes from the bark of cinnamon trees. Cinnamon extract has been shownTrusted Source to have a positive effect on insulin resistance. Cinnamon also may regulate menstruationTrusted Source for women with PCOS.
Turmeric
The active ingredient in turmeric is called curcumin. Turmeric may beTrusted Source promising for decreasing insulin resistance and as an anti-inflammatory agent.
Zinc
Zinc is a trace element that can boost fertility and your immune system. Excessive or unwanted hair growth and alopecia may be improvedTrusted Source with zinc supplements.
You can also eat red meat, beans, tree nuts, and seafood to get more zinc in your diet.
Evening primrose oil
Evening primrose oil has been used to help with period pain and irregular menstruation. It may alsoTrusted Source improve cholesterol levels and oxidative stress, both of which are linked to PCOS.
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Combined vitamin D and calcium
Vitamin D is a hormone that’s vital to your endocrine system. Vitamin D deficiency is commonTrusted Source in women with PCOS. Vitamin D and calcium may improveTrusted Source irregular periods and help you ovulate.
Cod liver oil
Cod liver oil contains vitamins D and A, as well as high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. These acids can help improveTrusted Source menstrual regularity and help get rid of fat around your waist.
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Berberine
Berberine is an herb used in Chinese medicine to help with insulin resistance. If you have PCOS, berberine mayTrusted Source ramp up your metabolism and balance your body’s endocrine responses.
Adaptogen herbs
When your body can’t regulate insulin, it can build up in your body and cause higher levels of male sex hormones called androgens. Adaptogen herbs claim to aid your body in balancing these hormones. Some adaptogen herbs also claim to ease other symptoms of PCOS, like irregular periods.
Use caution and talk with your doctor before taking any herbal supplement, as their claims haven’t been evaluated by the FDA.
Maca root
The root of the maca plant is a traditional herb used to boost fertility and libido. Maca root may helpTrusted Source balance hormones and lower cortisol levels. It may also help treat depression, which can be a symptom of PCOS.
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is also called “Indian ginseng.” It can help balanceTrusted Source cortisol levels, which could improve stress and symptoms of PCOS.
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Holy basil
Holy basil, also called tulsi, addresses chemical and metabolic stress. It’s referred to as “queen of herbs.” Holy basil can help reduceTrusted Source your blood sugar, prevent weight gain, and lower your cortisol levels.
Licorice root
The root of the licorice plant contains a compound called glycyrrhizin, which has several unique properties. Licorice root has been suggestedTrusted Source as an anti-inflammatory agent. It works to help metabolize sugar and balance hormones.
Tribulus terrestris
Tribulus terrestris has been shownTrusted Source to help stimulate ovulation and support healthy menstruation. It may also decreaseTrusted Source the number of ovarian cysts.
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Chasteberry
Chasteberry has been usedTrusted Source for centuries to help with reproductive conditions. It may improve some symptoms of PMS, though its effect on fertility requires more research.
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Probiotics
Probiotics don’t just help with your digestion and gut health. They can playTrusted Source an important role in treating PCOS. They can also reduce inflammation and regulate sex hormones like androgen and estrogen.
Consider taking probiotic supplements and eating probiotic foods, like kimchi and kombucha.
Maintain a healthy weight
Maintaining a healthy weight can help decrease insulin resistance, regulate your periodTrusted Source, and reduce your risk of conditions associated with PCOS.
If you’re overweight, someTrusted Source studies suggest gradual weight loss through a low-calorie diet as a promising first-line treatment for PCOS.
Balance your exercise
Exercise is important for maintaining a healthy weight. But too much exercise can disrupt your hormones, so talk with your doctor about a healthy balance.
Gentle, low-impact exercises like yoga or Pilates can be practiced for longer durations. Swimming and light aerobics are also recommended. High-intensity interval training and long-distance running may alsoTrusted Source help improve symptoms of PCOS.
Talk with your doctor about the type of workout that would benefit you most.
Practice good sleep hygiene
Sleep affects your stress levels and helps regulate cortisol to balance your hormones. But sleep disturbances are twice as commonTrusted Source for women with PCOS. To up your sleep hygiene:
Aim for eight to ten hours of sleep per night.
Establish a regular bedtime routine.
Avoid stimulants and rich, fatty foods before bedtime.
Reduce stress
Reducing stress can regulate cortisol. Many of the strategies mentioned above, such as yoga, getting enough sleep, and cutting caffeine, can contribute to lower stress levels.
Taking walks outside and creating space in your life for relaxation and self-care can also reduce how stressed you feel.
Limit or avoid endocrine disruptors
Endocrine disruptors are chemicals or ingredients that interfere with or block your body’s natural hormonal reactions.
Some endocrine disruptors mimic female and male sex hormones, causing confusion in your reproductive system. This can increase your risk of PCOS symptoms.
They’re often found in canned foods, soaps, and makeup. Common endocrine disruptors include:
dioxins
phthalates
pesticides
BPA
glycol ethers
Consider acupuncture
There’s enough research to make a case for acupuncture as an alternative treatment for PCOS. Acupuncture may helpTrusted Source PCOS by:
increasing blood flow to your ovaries
reducing cortisol levels
helping with weight loss
improving your sensitivity to insulin
Be cautious
Be wary of supplements and other therapies that make large claims. Although there’s a fair amount of research on natural treatments for PCOS, more concrete information is still needed to support many alternative remedies.
You should always check with your doctor before starting any alternative therapy. Some treatments that claim to be miracle products for PCOS can actually impact your fertility or lead to other complications.
Be especially wary of:
progestinTrusted Source, which can make it harder for you to get pregnant
systemic enzyme therapies
supplements and herbs that promise to “cure all” and provide “instant results”
Talk with your doctor
If you’re considering any of the above natural treatment options for PCOS, work with your doctor to make a treatment plan.
While herbal supplements and alternative therapies can help PCOS treatment, they aren’t a substitute for a customized, ongoing dialogue with your doctor about your symptoms.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder occurring in 6 to 12 percentTrusted Source of people with ovaries in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Generally, people with PCOS experience at least two of these conditions:
Hyperandrogenism: when the ovaries produce excess androgens (hormones that contribute to growth and reproduction in men and women)
Ovulatory dysfunction: when the ovaries stop releasing eggs as often as they should
Polycystic ovaries: when the ovaries become enlarged with multiple small cysts
Additionally, people with PCOS may also experience some of these symptoms:
hormonal imbalance
bloating
cramps
acne
pelvic pain
weight gain
excess hair growth on the face and body
irregular periods
lack of ovulation
So far, there is no cure for PCOS. However, people who have this condition may be able to manage some of their symptoms with hormonal birth control.
Keep reading to learn which forms of hormonal birth control may be useful for you.
Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article uses the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Learn more about sex and gender.
What is PCOS?
PCOS is a hormonal condition that occurs during childbearing years (usually ages 15 to 44) among people who have a vagina. It essentially means that cysts (partially formed follicles) grow on the ovaries, which contain eggs.
The follicles contain immature eggs, but they never mature enough to trigger ovulation. The lack of ovulation alters levels of female hormones:
estrogen
progesterone
follicle-stimulating hormone (FSL)
luteinizing hormone (LH)
Progesterone levels are lower than usual, while androgen levels are higher than usual.
People with PCOS commonly have high levels of insulin that may not work effectively, male hormones known as androgens, or both. Some women also experience insulin resistance as a result.
In some cases, the following factors may play a role:
family history
genetics
hormones
lifestyle
Additionally, some people may have polycystic ovaries, but not PCOS.
Common symptoms of PCOS include:
irregular periods
heavy bleeding
hair growth on the face and body
acne
weight gain
male pattern baldness on the scalp
darkening of the skin
headaches
How birth control can help PCOS
Hormonal birth control has been describedTrusted Source as a “first-line medical treatment” for managing PCOS.
People with PCOS who do not have immediate plans to get pregnant may benefit from using forms of birth control, like:
the pill
the vaginal ring
the patch
hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs)
These forms of birth control have been found to help with symptoms of PCOS.
Hormonal birth control, specifically those with estrogen and progestin (two synthetic female hormones), can:
lower the production of male sex hormones, thus helping managing acne, excessive facial and body hair, baldness, and other symptoms associated with high androgen levels
regulate the menstrual cycle
reduce a person’s risk of ovarian cancer and endometrial cancer — a condition that is 2.7 times more likelyTrusted Source to develop in people with PCOS — by close to 30%Trusted Source than people who don’t use it
What to know about estrogen and progestin
Estrogen helps start sexual development in women. Progestin is a form of synthetic progestogen. Progestin in hormonal birth control inhibits ovulation or reduces the amount and stretchiness of cervical mucus, making it an unfriendly environment for sperm.
Best birth control for PCOS
Oral contraceptives
Oral contraceptives are the most common and effective optionTrusted Source for managing PCOS symptoms. They may be combination pills, having both progestin and estrogen or progestin-only pills.
The hormones in oral contraceptives may helpTrusted Source:
regulate menstrual flow
manage hyperandrogenism symptoms like acne and extra hair growth
reduce a person’s risk of developing ovarian cancer and endometrial cancer
People who use oral contraceptives may also experience other positive health outcomesTrusted Source like:
a lighter menstrual flow
decreased dysmenorrhea and anemia
a lower risk of ectopic pregnancies
a reduced risk of pelvic inflammatory symptoms
infrequent menstrual migraines
reduced premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms
a decreased risk of osteoporosis
Aside from these benefits, oral contraceptives have an above 99 percent efficacy rateTrusted Source of preventing unplanned pregnancies when taken correctly.
Some common side effects of using oral contraceptives include:
nausea
mood changes
breast tenderness
headache
spotting
bloating
abnormal uterine bleeding
possible weight gain or loss
a mild rise in blood pressure in some oral contraceptive combinations
It’s important to note that researchTrusted Source suggests that oral contraceptives may contribute to severe PCOS symptoms and increase the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart diseases, and blood clotting.
Therefore, it’s suggestedTrusted Source that oral contraceptives should only be recommended as an alternative treatment option for PCOS to high risk groups like those at risk for chronic diseases, older adults, or people who have diabetes or hypertension.
Still, experts also note, based on available research, the benefits of using oral contraceptives outweigh its risks.
Skin patch
The patch contains estrogen and progestin and is an effective and convenient birth control method for managing PCOS symptoms.
This long-acting reversible contraceptive is a thin plastic patch that releases about 150 micrograms (mcg) of progestin and 35 mcg of estrogen into the body through the skin.
You may apply the patch on the:
buttocks
upper body
stomach
Try not to wear the patch on:
your breast
irritated skin areas
where your clothing might disturb it
You need to wear the patch on the same area for 21 days, remove it for seven days (this should be when you get your period), and then replace it with a new patch.
Like the pill, the patch can help with:
ovulation
period regulation
reducing bloating and cramps
reducing acne
reducing excess hair growth
lowering your cancer risk
The patch produces the same side effectsTrusted Source as oral contraceptives. However, there may be a bit more breast tenderness and potential reaction on the part of the body you wear it on.
Vaginal ring
The vaginal ring is a soft, flexible, transparent plastic ring that you insert into your vagina. This method is another long-acting reversible contraceptive that helps treat PCOS symptoms.
Like the patch, it also contains estrogen and progestin and is worn for 3 weeks, removed for a week for menstrual flow, and reinserted after.
The vaginal ring shares the same benefits and side effects as the skin patch. The ring releases 15 mcg of estrogen and 120 mcg of progestin into the body through the vagina.
According to the NuvaRing website, people who smoke and are over 35 years old should not use the vaginal ring. Smoking and using hormonal contraceptives may increase their risk of heart and blood vessel conditions.
The manufacturers also recommend that people with a history of blood clotting and high blood pressure should consider avoiding this form of hormonal birth control.
Severe side effects include:
blood clots
allergic reaction
high blood pressure
toxic shock syndrome
liver problems
gallbladder problems
Progestin-containing intrauterine device (IUD)
Up to 14 percent of people with ovariesTrusted Source use intrauterine devices (IUD) that may contain progestin or nonhormonal copper.
IUDs containing progestin are a highly effective form of birth controlTrusted Source that can help ease PCOS symptoms in the same way combination or progestin-only pills do.
IUDs are small T-shaped plastic devices that release progestin into the body each day. This device is inserted into the uterus and can remain there for 3 to 6 yearsTrusted Source, according to the CDC.
Potential side effects of using progestin-containing intrauterine devices include:
headaches
nausea
hair loss
mood changes
low sex drive
irregular periods
missing periods
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How to choose
If you have PCOS, talk with a doctor about the best treatment option for you.
ResearchTrusted Source suggests that some of the side effects of oral contraceptives like mood changes, weight gain, and increased risk of cardiometabolic diseasesTrusted Source may contribute to the severity of PCOS symptoms.
For this reason, consider speaking with a doctor first who may evaluate your medical history for risk factorsTrusted Source like:
older age
smoking habits
obesity
high blood pressure
stroke
diabetes
blood clotting
After this evaluation, your doctor may recommend hormonal birth control or other treatment options for PCOS as appropriate.
When you work through your options, remember to consider:
Ease of use. If you’re looking for something that requires minimal thinking about your contraception, you may consider the ring, patch, or IUD. However, an oral contraceptive might be your best bet if you want something easy.
Side effects. Most hormonal birth control options share similar side effects. Still, your doctor may be able to recommend one over another to cater to any concerns. It may take a few different options before you find the right one for your body and lifestyle.
Cost. If you have insurance, try to check in with your insurance company to determine whether any birth control methods are covered and what your out-of-pocket costs may be. You may also speak with a doctor about patient assistance programs if you’re uninsured.
Where to get birth control for PCOS
SimpleHealth
SimpleHealth is a telehealth provider of birth control.
Here’s how SimpleHealth works:
Book an online consultation to talk through your medical history.
Wait for a doctor licensed in your state to review your application and give you a prescription.
Receive your delivery at no additional cost.
Receive automatic refills after your first purchase.
They prescribe oral contraceptives pills, skin patches, and vaginal rings, all of which may help treat PCOS symptoms.
Their consultation fee is $20. You can become a part of their automatic refill program for $15 a month.
This consultation fee also covers continuous access to a doctor, a valuable service for people with PCOS who may benefit from regular check-insTrusted Source.
Most health insurance companies may cover the entire cost of their service.
Pandia Health
Pandia Health is an online birth control provider that offers simple and convenient access to birth control.
To use their services:
You fill out an online health form on their website.
A doctor reviews your order and prescribes the right birth control for you.
You get a free delivery afterward.
You also get automatic refills for a year.
Online registration costs $20 and gives you unlimited access to a specialist doctor who is available to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
A pack of contraceptive pills costs $15 out of pocket. Insurance companies may fully cover the cost.
They prescribe all brands of birth control, so people with PCOS can enjoy a broader selection of options when choosing birth control for managing their symptoms.
Nurx
Nurx is a birth control service provider that offers various contraceptive methods including oral contraceptive pills, vaginal rings, skin patches, the morning after pill, and the birth control shot.
To get birth control medication you can:
Choose the medication you want or a medical expert can help you make a choice.
Wait for a doctor within their network to review your order and write you a prescription.
Receive your prescription via delivery directly to your home in discreet packaging at no extra cost.
They require you to pay an initial $15 fee which covers an online consultation with a doctor licensed in your state and unlimited access to a doctor for a year.
The contraceptive pill costs $15, the vaginal ring costs $150, and the skin patch costs $180. With health insurance, you can get these medications at no cost.
If you have PCOS, you may be able to get the right hormonal birth control for your needs and speak with a doctor from their team about any concerns you may have at any time.
Lemonaid
Lemonaid is another telehealth platform that prescribes and delivers birth control to your doorstep.
These are the steps you take to get birth control:
You will need to answer some questions that may inquire about your medical history.
A doctor or nurse will review them. You’ll receive your prescription within 24 hours.
They’ll then deliver three packs of your birth control pill within 2 to 3 business days.
You’ll automatically receive your birth control medication every 3 months.
Their consultation fee is $25, and it gives you year-long access to a healthcare professional. The birth control pill costs $15 a pack for any brand. Most health insurance plans will fully cover the cost of the service.
Lemonaid’s birth control service provides simple, stress-free, and cost-effective birth control options for people with PCOS to help treat their symptoms.
In-person doctor visit
You may also visit a doctor in person.
They may:
request and review your health history
recommend PCOS treatment options for you
answer any concerns you may have about managing PCOS symptoms
Frequently asked questions
Can birth control help PCOS weight loss?
The general consensus is that birth control cannot directly help with PCOS weight loss. However, the right birth control pill can be part of a good treatment plan for managing PCOS.
There are other FDA-approved drugs that may help handle weight loss in combination with a healthy diet.
If PCOS is affecting your weight, talk with a doctor or other medical professional.
What is PCOS caused by?
To date, experts are yet to identify what causes PCOS. However, certain conditionsTrusted Source may play a role, including insulin resistanceTrusted Source and increased androgen levels.
Is there a cure for PCOS?
So far, there’s no cure for PCOS. A person with PCOS may use certain medications and adopt specific lifestyle recommendations for long-term management of their symptoms.
The Office on Women’s Health (OWH)Trusted Source provides these options for treating PCOS symptoms:
Using hormonal birth control, which can regulate periods and reduce androgen production.
Talking with your doctor about starting metformin, a medication that can reduce androgen and blood sugar levels. Taking metformin for PCOS is considered off-label drug useTrusted Source as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)Trusted Source has not approved metformin for treating PCOS symptoms.
Using anti-androgen medications that prevent androgens from affecting the body and in turn, managing PCOS symptoms associated with elevated androgen levels like baldness and acne.