57: PCOS: Reproductive or Metabolic Condition? Top Questions, Answered

Many people think of PCOS as just a reproductive issue - irregular periods or fertility struggles - but it affects much more. PCOS impacts metabolism, blood sugar control, mental health, digestion, skin, and inflammation, making it a complex, chronic condition that requires a whole-body approach.In this episode, I answer your top questions:Why do I gain weight no matter what I eat?Do I have to take progestin to trigger a period?Should I follow a low-carb or keto diet?Does HIIT exercise hurt my hormones? We also discuss the growing movement to rename PCOS to better reflect its full range of symptoms and improve understanding for both patients and healthcare providers. If this episode speaks to you, please leave a rating and review. I’d love to hear your thoughts! Episode links:Monash University - survey to rename PCOSPCOS Recovery Program Free PCOS Symptom Tracker + Labs List ReferencesBenjamin JJ, Kuppusamy M, Koshy T, Kalburgi Narayana M, Ramaswamy P. Cortisol and polycystic ovarian syndrome - a systematic search and meta-analysis of case-control studies. Gynecol Endocrinol. 2021 Nov;37(11):961-967. doi: 10.1080/09513590.2021.1908254. Epub 2021 Apr 5. PMID: 33818258. Frandsen CLB, Gottschau M, Nøhr B, Viuff JH, Maltesen T, Kjær SK, Jensen A, Svendsen PF. Polycystic ovary syndrome and endometrial cancer risk: results from a nationwide cohort study. Am J Epidemiol. 2024 Oct 7;193(10):1399-1406. doi: 10.1093/aje/kwae061. PMID: 38751314.  Helena Teede et al. International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome 2023. Monash University.