One of the main reasons of infertility and affecting millions of women globally is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). It is an ovaries-related hormonal condition that causes irregular periods, excessive hair growth, and weight gain.
Weight loss is a crucial part of controlling PCOS because obesity is a major comorbidity in women with the illness. A bariatric procedure called gastric sleeve surgery can assist PCOS patients in losing weight, improving their symptoms, and possibly raising their chances of becoming pregnant.
What is PCOS?
A polycystic ovary syndrome is referred to as PCOS. It is a hormonal condition that affects females who are fertile. Many cysts (tiny, fluid-filled sacs) in the ovaries, irregular menstrual cycles, and high levels of androgens (male hormones) in the body are all symptoms of PCOS.
Other symptoms that women with PCOS may face include excessive hair growth, acne, weight gain, and insulin resistance. Up to 10% of women of reproductive age may have PCOS, which can have a serious impact on a woman’s fertility, general health, and quality of life.
How Can Gastric Sleeve Surgery Help Women with PCOS?
Women with PCOS can benefit from gastric sleeve surgery in a number of ways. First off, losing weight can help with PCOS symptoms like irregular periods, excessive hair growth, and acne. In one study, researchers discovered that women who underwent gastric sleeve surgery significantly reduced their symptoms of PCOS, including a rise in menstrual regularity and a drop in testosterone levels.
Second, losing weight helps reduce insulin resistance, a typical PCOS symptom. When the body’s cells don’t react to insulin as intended, it causes insulin resistance, which raises blood sugar levels and causes weight gain. Obesity can help lower the risk of type 2 diabetes in women with PCOS, who are more likely to develop it.
Thirdly, women with PCOS may have a higher probability of becoming pregnant if they lose weight. Weight loss can improve ovulation and raise the chance of conception. Obesity is a substantial risk factor for infertility.
In one study, researchers discovered that gastric sleeve surgery significantly improved the fertility of women with PCOS, with over 80% of the patients experiencing ovulation within a year following the procedure.
Why is it more difficult to lose weight with PCOS?
Due to a number of conditions related to PCOS, women who have the illness frequently struggle to reduce weight. Insulin resistance, which is typical in PCOS-affected women, is one of the main causes.
Blood sugar levels are regulated by the hormone insulin, and as the body develops an insulin resistance, more insulin is produced to keep blood sugar levels in a normal range. Yet, too much insulin may encourage the storage of fat, making it challenging to reduce weight.
High levels of androgens (male hormones) in the body, which can result in increased muscle building and less fat burning, are another contributing cause. Thus, it’s possible for women with PCOS to have a slower metabolism, which makes it harder to lose weight.
PCOS can also result in cravings for foods high in carbohydrates, which can promote overeating and weight gain. The hormonal abnormalities brought on by PCOS can also cause stress and weariness, which can make it difficult to stick to an exercise regimen.
Last but not least, PCOS can result in chronic inflammation, which can interfere with metabolism and make it more challenging to lose weight. By a mix of diet, exercise, and medical therapy, women with PCOS may need to put in more effort to shed pounds and keep them off in order to maintain a healthy weight.
Final Thought
In conclusion, women with PCOS who struggle with obesity and concomitant health issues may find success with gastric sleeve surgery. Significant weight loss following the procedure can help with PCOS symptoms, insulin resistance, and fertility.
But, in order to decide if gastric sleeve surgery is the best choice for you, it’s crucial to go over the risks and advantages with a healthcare professional. Gastric sleeve surgery can assist women with PCOS in achieving a healthier weight and possibly improve their chances of becoming pregnant with the support of appropriate medical supervision and a dedication to a healthy lifestyle.
Get Free Quote