PCOS, hormone imbalance in women! 5 ways to tell you have PCOS and how to prevent Symptoms.

Having a skin problem such as acne can be a key symptom for a hormone imbalance. Acne is thought to be triggered by the hormone 'testosterone' and it is thought that increased levels of testosterone cause the glands to produce much more sebum than the skin needs. Some women also developed dark patches on the skin, it's unknown what it is called.

The contraceptive pill is usually prescribed by doctors to balance the hormones out again. And can also help with clearing the skin. Also a good fixed routine for healthy skin is key. Making sure skin is clean, moisturised and exfoliated, using simple products that don't contain any harsh chemicals to upset the skin. Making sure makeup brushes, pillow cases and bed sheets are clean. Avoid pore clogging makeup and switch to mineral foundation or avoid makeup on the skin completely. And also avoid touching the skin with dirty hands.

If you are unhappy with your weight and you are not being able to shift it, it can be one of the most difficult symptoms for women with a hormone imbalance. Many women claim they are unable to shift the persistent weight gain. This can also lead to diabetes and sleep apnea.

Maybe try set a healthy routine and some small changes such as eliminating processed foods, sugars and wheat can make a difference, but remembering to also keep active to burn the fat. Sticking to this on a regular bases will help loose weight and keeping at a healthy weight ideal for you. I recommend trying a slimming club. They can be very supportive and encouraging, whilst giving you advice and facts on nutrition. Joining a club also makes you realise you are not alone and that you are all in this together, to motivate and support each other.

Excessive hair growth is the most embarrassing symptom for women with pcos. Shaving and waxing may cause the hair to grow back faster and thicker and this just becomes a viscous cycle.

There are medicines available called anti-androgens which may reduce hair growth and acne. I'd suggest talking to a doctor about your options as they may offer laser hair removal and other creams to prevent the hair growth.

Fertility problems in women who want to become pregnant is the most heartbreaking symptom. In women with pcos, the ovary doesn't make all the hormones it needs for an eggs to fully mature. Fertility problems can usually be determined by your periods. If periods are irregular or you don't have any at all I would suggest seeing your doctor for a diagnoses. They will be able to tell you if you are ovulating and producing eggs or not.

A lot of women with pcos usually find they will miscarry or give birth to a stillborn. This is the most heartbreaking event to happen to any couple and we must do everything to prevent this. If you start eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, and taking targeted nutritional supplements, then it can give you a greater chance for a trouble-free pregnancy. There are pills that can help with ovulation and there are also options for women who can't conceive naturally, such as IVF.

With all these symptoms of pcos, no wonder some women feel depressed. Depression can become a serious matter and actions whilst depressed can range from sleeping all day to Suicide. But I'm hoping with all the advice I've given I can help people like me, as I was once in a dark place, mainly because I had low self esteem due to pcos.

There are a few points I want you to remember for me. Remember that doctors, professional advisers and amature advisers (like myself ;)) can only say and help so much. Remember that you are the only person who can truly help yourself, you are the only person in control of yourself. You are the only person who can take action, control the symptoms and gain confidence you deserve. Don't let the symptoms rule you. Rule them. Then, you will be on a path to a happier you. It won't be easy, but it will be worth it. :)

Thanks for listening, I hope I can help. Good luck! ❤️💜💙💚💛