Infertility – LIMARP https://www.limarp.com Weight Loss Surgery Mexico Fri, 07 Nov 2025 16:18:35 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.1 https://www.limarp.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/cropped-Captura-de-pantalla-2024-11-08-a-las-9.02.21 p.m-32x32.png Infertility – LIMARP https://www.limarp.com 32 32 Inositol or Myo-Inositol: What is it, and What are its benefits for Weight Loss in Women? https://www.limarp.com/en/blog/infertility/myo-inositol-benefits/ Sat, 11 Nov 2023 01:29:00 +0000 https://www.limarp.com/?p=7226 Myo Inositol Benefits for Weight Loss in Women

Inositol, also known as myo inositol, is a substance related to glucose (sugar). Although it is frequently called vitamin B8, it is actually a type of sugar that has several benefits and essential functions rather than a vitamin. It affects how insulin functions and benefits mental health issues as well as metabolic disorders like diabetes [1].

Inositol is a compound that builds up in places like your kidneys, liver, and brain. It helps cells talk to each other when hormones, growth factors or neurotransmitters are released [1]. You can get inositol from food too – citrus bran, beans, nuts and seeds all supply it, even if your body makes some on its own [4].   

Most inositol supplements are in the myo form. Myo inositol is the type found most often naturally in your body [2]. 

Some research shows inositol may bring benefits things like bipolar disorder type 2 diabetes, infertility issues, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), but more studies are probably needed [2].

Moreover, dietary supplements containing inositol can be consumed. The majority of inositol supplements contain myo inositol, which is the form of inositol that is most prevalent in the body [2]. When assessing such claims and benefits, it’s crucial to proceed cautiously, nevertheless. For these conditions, myo inositol shouldn’t be used as a stand-alone treatment or in place of conventional therapies [3].

What are the benefits of inositol?

It may have benefits mental health 

Myo inositol may have benefits for mental health and balance important chemicals in the brain, including chemicals thought to influence mood, such as serotonin and dopamine [1]. Inositol is an interesting nutrient.  Some studies have shown that people with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues tend to have lower levels of inositol in their brains [1].  Makes you wonder if boosting levels of this substance could help with those conditions.  

Several studies indicate that myo inositol may bring benefits and have a role as an alternative treatment for mental health conditions, though more research is necessary [1]. 

Benefits in depression

Depression is a common mental illness that causes persistent sadness and loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed [5]. Some studies have shown that inositol levels are lower in the brains of those who are depressed [5]. Some studies have shown that taking this supplements benefits balancing important hormones in the brain, including serotonin and dopamine. Although more research is needed, this benefits may help improve  symptoms of depression [5]. Be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any antidepressant medication.

Benefits in Panic Disorder

Panic attacks are no fun.  They come on fast and make your heart race, your breathing go crazy and fill you with intense fear.  Some supplements like inositol might help dial those panic attacks down a notch or two [5]. Although research is limited,  some studies suggest that  taking myo benefits panick attacks by reducing the number and severity of attacks you experience. Be sure to take your medications as prescribed and talk to  your doctor before starting a new supplement for an emergency [5].

Benefits in control risk factors for metabolic syndrome

Myo benefits and may also help manage the risk factors for metabolic syndrome – you know, that combo of high blood pressure, blood sugar, and bad cholesterol that puts you on the fast track for diabetes stroke, and heart disease [1] .

Metabolic syndrome is three or more of the following: 

  • Waist circumference (usually there’s an excess of adipose tissue or body fat in the abdomen) [4]
  • High blood glucose [4]
  • High blood pressure [4] 
  • High levels of triglycerides in the blood [4]
  • Low “good” cholesterol (HDL) levels [4]

This supplement can bring benefits and help manage risk factors by reducing blood triglyceride levels, blood pressure, and glucose [1].

Benefits Blood Sugar Levels in People with Type 2 Diabetes

Myo inositol may bring benefits for people who have type 2 diabetes [2]. Studies show that taking a myo inositol supplement twice daily, helped improve fasting blood sugar levels and their hemoglobin A1C levels by decreasing them significantly over three months [2].

You may be wondering how a natural sugar benefits losing weight. The answer lies in the hormone insulin. After eating, food is converted by your body into sugar and then enters your bloodstream. And speaking of blood sugar, myo, seems to make insulin work better in the body.  That’s especially huge news for people with diabetes or women with PCOS whose bodies hard time at processing insulin.  An insulin sensitivity boost from myo inositol might make controlling blood sugar easier for them [7].

Insulin resistance is closely related to body weight. Even people with a normal BMI can be affected by insulin, but if it is not controlled, weight increases and diabetes develops [7]. This is where inositol comes in; it benefits and balances the effects of insulin, so, even if your body stops responding to insulin, this supplement can still do a similar job and lower your blood sugar [7].

Benefits  Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a type of hormonal disorder that affects women and men who are diagnosed during pregnancy [2]. If the ovary where the baby is located grows, it can cause: 

  • Irregular menstrual periods [2]
  • Infertility [2]
  • Pelvic pain [2]
  • Extra hair growth on your face, chest, stomach, or thighs [2]
  • Weight gain [2]
  • Acne [2]

Studies have shown that  taking this supplement, especially with folic acid,  benefits and aiud reducing many  symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It benefits blood sugar, lowering blood pressure and lowering triglyceride levels. It also benefits ovulation and increase pregnancy rates. Be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any supplement for PCOS [2]

Gestational diabetes (DG) and premature birth 

Gestational diabetes (GD) occurs when blood sugar levels are too high during  pregnancy. GD can cause a number of complications during pregnancy, including the risk of premature birth [5]. A premature birth is when a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy [5]. Studies have shown that taking inositol and folic acid supplements during  pregnancy can prevent GD and reduce the risk of preterm birth [5]. Be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplements during  pregnancy [5].

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Inositol Dosage

Inositol can be found in two different supplements [2]:

  1. Myo-myo inositol (MYO)
  2. D-chiro-myo inositol (DCI)

There is no official consensus on the most effective type and dosage, but research studies have found the following  to be effective [1]:

  • For mental health conditions: 12–18 grams of MYO once daily for 4–6 weeks [1].
  • For polycystic ovary syndrome: 1.2 grams of DCI once daily, or 2 grams of MYO and 200 mcg of folic acid twice daily for 6 months [1].
  • For metabolic syndrome: 2 grams of MYO twice daily for one year [1].
  • For blood sugar control in gestational diabetes: 2 grams of MYO and 400 mcg of folic acid twice daily during pregnancy [1]. 
  • For blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes: 1 gram of DCI and 400 mcg folic acid once daily for 6 months [1].

 It’s really important to your healthcare provider if you’re interested in an myo inositol supplement so that they control your doses and make sure you’re a candidate.

Is myo inositol safe?

Myo inositol is generally safe for most people. However, mild side effects have been reported with doses of 12 grams per day or higher [2]. These include nausea, gas, difficulty sleeping, headache, dizziness and tiredness [1].

Dietary supplements are rarely regulated by the FDA and may not be right for you [2]. Numerous factors, such as supplement type, dosage, frequency of use, and interactions with current medications, affect how effective supplements are for individual users [2]. Consult your physician or pharmacist prior to beginning a supplement regimen. 

Food sources of inositol

An alternative to supplementation with myo is getting more of this substance from food to enjoy from its benefits. 

Almonds, walnuts, Brazil nuts, oats, beans, peas, cantaloupe melon, and citrus fruits—all except lemons—are additional foods high in inositol.

Additionally, foods like liver, grains, seeds, and beans that the body uses to produce inositol can be consumed by people.

What does inositol do to your hormones?

Myo inositol can affect sex hormones, such as, estrogen and progesterone (especially for women, but useful for men) [7]. 

Myo inositol has been shown to bring benefits in the following ways: 

  • Lowers Estrogen Levels [7]
  • Improves Estrogen Status [7] 
  • Decreased LH production, which decreases testosterone (especially in women with PCOS) [7]
  • It regulates the menstrual cycle [7]

But why are these hormones important for weight loss? 

Estrogen is a powerful hormone that affects fat cells. Excess estrogen can lead to excess weight  and fat  (especially in the breasts, buttocks and thighs) [7]. High estrogen can change your mood and affect other hormones, such as cortisol [7]. Estrogen dominance can be a result from a to poor diet and insulin resistance. Taking myo inositol can help  improve fat loss by regulating these hormones [7].

Bottom Line

From its roots in cell communication to promising studies on depression, panic disorder, and conditions like PCOS and gestational diabetes, myo inositol showcases diverse benefits. Whether sourced from inositol-rich foods or cautiously supplemented, its impact on insulin sensitivity and hormone regulation marks it as a noteworthy player in the pursuit of holistic health. Always consult your healthcare team before making any significant changes or additions to your wellness routine.

Contact Us Today

Our team is ready to help you. At LIMARP, patients will always receive warm, sincere and professional answers. For a free evaluation please call us at (619) 270 8823, fill out a contact form at www.limarp.com, or message through any of our social media pages.

References

]]> Infertility Causes in Female https://www.limarp.com/en/blog/infertility/infertility-causes-female/ Mon, 23 Oct 2023 21:47:00 +0000 https://www.limarp.com/?p=7184 Infertility Causes in Female

What is infertility?

To answer this question, first and foremost we need to establish what fertility means. Fertility is defined as the capacity to establish a clinical pregnancy; now the term infertility is somewhat harder to define since it’s used by some clinicians as a synonym for subfertility and sterility. 

What are the differences between all these terms? 

Using the definition of infertility as a focal point we can set confusion aside. Infertility is a disease characterized by the failure to establish a clinical pregnancy after 12 months of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse or due to an impairment of a person’s capacity to reproduce either as an individual or with his/her partner. 

Subfertility is any form or grade of reduced fertility in couples unsuccessfully trying to conceive and sterility is a permanent state of infertility (1).

Infertility is common, with an estimate of 9 to 18% prevalence in general population, and according to the National Summary Report from the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, there were 190,394 cycles initiated in 2014 for egg retrieval, frozen embryo transfer and frozen egg thawing (2). 

These numbers show that there are a lot of women going through some kind of infertility treatment. In this text we will take a deep dive into its correlation with obesity.

Which risk factors contribute to infertility?

  • Ovulatory Disorders

One of the most common causes of female infertility. There are conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome that affect the menstrual cycle in a way that disrupt the release of ovules, making them absent or irregular.

  • Fallopian Tube Blockage

Previous infections such as pelvic inflammatory disease or cervicitis, surgeries and myomatosis cause changes in the fallopian tube anatomy and histology that can lead to a blockage, therefore making it difficult for the ovules to pass through them.

  • Endometriosis

This is a common condition where uterine tissue grows outside the uterus, this causes abdominal or pelvic pain and inflammatory changes that impede the fertilization of the ovule. When endometriosis is classified as mild, female patient prospects for natural conception without treatment. Severe endometriosis demands treatment for infertility without delay (5).

  • Uterine abnormalities

Congenital abnormalities, fibroids, myomatosis or polyps also causes infertility in females.

  • Hormonal imbalances

Hyperprolactinemia usually causes amenorrhea but can be associated with normal ovulatory cycles, and its relevance to otherwise unexplained infertility is questionable. Hyperprolactinemia accounts for 10% to 15% of patients with amenorrhea but seldom causes only oligomenorrhea (1% to 2%) and, rarely, follicular dysfunction (luteal deficiency) in normally cycling females (5).

  • Lifestyle and environmental factors

Regular sexual intercourse, two to three times per week beginning soon after menses, is an important determinant for the occurrence of pregnancy (1). It is well established that calorie restriction and excessive exercise causes a reduction in the frequency of ovulation in females.

  • Stress and Emotional factors

Gaskin et al. demonstrated, in the female nurse population, that working longer hours (over 40 h/week) is associated with increased time to conceive, suggesting a relation of tiredness or stress with reduced fecundity (1).

Why and how is obesity correlated to infertility in females?

Obesity has become a major issue and a global epidemic, affecting more than 600 million adults worldwide. Females of reproductive age are no exception, and it is estimated that at least in the United States, 23% of them are now obese (3).

Obesity has a negative effect on reproductive potential, primarily thought to be due to functional alteration of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis, which is the one that causes production of gonadotropins (hormones that have a positive effect in fertility).

This happens because obese females have abnormal high levels of insulin in their blood, which makes their ovaries increase their androgen production (3). These androgens are converted into estrogens in the fat tissue, leading to tricking the body into blocking the HPO axis and clinically manifesting as menstrual abnormalities and ovulatory dysfunction in obese females.  

Analysis of follicular fluid assayed for various hormones and metabolites from patients undergoing in vitro fertilization cycles demonstrates significant differences in obese female patients compared with their normal-body mass index (BMI) counterparts. Furthermore, the systemic alterations associated with obesity, namely, hyperinsulinaemia, dyslipidaemia and inflammatory responses, are evident from the ovarian follicular microenvironment (4).

Effect of obesity on the oocyte

Obesity is a factor that also has a negative effect on oocytes. Oocytes are the female germ cells involved in reproduction, during the fetal period oocytes are produced, and they mature one by one each menstrual cycle during the extrauterine life of a female, converting into ovules. The oocyte yield is lower in obese females, and they have a higher rate of cycle cancellation (3). 

Effect of obesity on the embryo

The preimplantation embryo is also affected by an obese environment. Comparison of human in vitro fecundation cycles with autologous oocytes show that obese females are more likely to create poor quality embryos (3). Among females undergoing in vitro fertilization, heightened concentrations of a particular omega-3 fatty acid known as alpha-linoleic acid were linked to reduced pregnancy rates.

Effect of obesity on the endometrium

There is a disparity in the research findings concerning whether obesity exerts a substantial impact on the endometrium. While certain studies investigating obese females who receive embryos from donor eggs have revealed no variance in implantation rates when compared to their non-obese counterparts, leading researchers to suggest that obesity does not impair endometrial receptivity. A retrospective analysis conducted by Desolle et al. involving 450 donor-oocyte frozen embryo transfer cycles demonstrated that BMI is an autonomous predictor of clinical pregnancy (3).

What are some potential interventions that could provide benefit to obese females seeking fertility?

  • Weight loss

Kort et al. presented data from 52 overweight or obese females with infertility who were referred to weight loss counseling with a goal of 10% weight loss. A total of 32% of patients achieved the weight loss goal, and those patients had significantly higher conception rates (3).

  • Physical Activity

There are studies that support regular physical activity independently from weight loss as a way to achieve higher pregnancy rates. In a retrospective cohort of obese infertile females undergoing 216 cycles of in vitro fertilization, the outcomes of patients that engaged in regular physical activity were compared with those who were sedentary, as assessed by the validated Global Physical Activity Questionnaire. There were significantly higher pregnancy rates in the active group (41 cycles), with a 3.71 relative risk of live birth (3).

  • Dietary Factors

It is highly probable that fertility is influenced not only by an excess of calorie consumption but also by the way those calories are distributed among different food groups.

  • Bariatric Surgery

According to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), surgery can be the most effective treatment for people battling with severe obesity or other medical problems like heart and kidney disease (6).

Implications of Female Infertility

The emotional toll of infertility is substantial, impacting a woman’s mental well-being and self-esteem. The pressure to conceive can strain relationships and lead to feelings of inadequacy, depression, and anxiety.

Women often internalize their infertility struggles, creating a sense of isolation and sadness.

The financial burden of fertility treatments is also a concern. In vitro fertilization (IVF) and other assisted reproductive technologies can be costly, and insurance coverage varies widely. The financial strain adds an additional layer of stress to couples already dealing with infertility.

Conclusion

Infertility in women is a multifaceted issue with numerous potential causes, ranging from physiological factors to lifestyle and environmental influences. Understanding these causes is crucial for both healthcare professionals and individuals struggling with infertility.

It’s important to approach infertility with compassion and empathy, recognizing the emotional toll it takes on couples and the financial challenges they may face.

Seeking timely medical intervention and emotional support can help couples navigate the challenges of infertility and, in some cases, find solutions that enable them to achieve their dream of parenthood.

Research and awareness are essential in addressing this issue and ensuring that women facing infertility have the resources and support they need to cope with and overcome this challenging experience.

Contact Us Today


Our team is ready to help you. At LIMARP, patients will always receive warm, sincere and professional
answers. For a free evaluation please call us at (619) 270 8823, fill out a contact form at
our website, or message through any of our social media pages.

References

  • Melodie Vander Borght, Christine Wyns. Fertility and infertility: Definition and epidemiology. ELSEVIER. Clinical Biochemistry 62 (2018) 2-10
  • Brent Hanson, Erica Johnstone, Jessie Dorais, Bob Silver, C. Matthew Peterson, James Hotaling. Female infertility, infertility-associated diagnoses, and comorbidities: a review. Assisted Reproduction Technologies. (2016)
  • Darcy E. Broughton, M.D. and Kelle H. Moley, M.D. Obesity and female infertility: potential mediators of obesity impact. American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2017)
  • Talmor A, Dunphy B. Female Obesity and Infertility. Best Practice and Research Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology (2014)
  • Michael G. R. Hull, MD. David J. Cahill, MD. Female infertility. Gonadal Disorders. Volume 27-Number 4. December 1998.
  • “Benefits of Weight Loss Surgery”. https://asmbs.org/patients/benefits-of-weight-loss-surgery. (Accessed on October 21, 2023).
]]> How to Lose Weight with PCOS https://www.limarp.com/en/blog/infertility/lose-weight-pcos/ Sat, 01 Jul 2023 05:56:55 +0000 https://www.limarp.com/?p=6996 How to Lose Weight with PCOS

Women’s health, along with their rights to proper care and ownership of their bodies, has come a long way in the last few decades, this is due to the political movements that made this progress happen and to the emerging medical and clinical research that has finally focused on women as their sole study cases.

This new research has shown a new light on how different illnesses or conditions affect women differently than men, such as obesity, depression, cancer, and reproductive issues.

It has also helped the medical world, and us by extension, learn more about disorders that only affect women, as is the case with polycystic ovary syndrome. This syndrome is more common than one may think and most of the time it goes by undiagnosed, so for this article, we will talk more about polycystic ovary syndrome, as well as its causes, symptoms, and the best ways to lose weight while having PCOS.

At LIMARP®, we care about our patient’s health and we strive to provide the best medical attention possible. Our team, led by Dr. Liza María Pompa González, is highly qualified to provide the information and treatment you need, as well as to guide you and answer any questions that may arise during and after your initial consultation. Our team also has expert nutritionists that can provide a diet plan that will best serve your needs if you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS.

As always, we’d like to remind you that the information we’re about to present about polycystic ovary syndrome is general and illustrative, so it may not apply to every case; this is why it’s important to contact your doctor if you start seeing any irregularities in your period or if you’re experiencing any uncomfortable symptoms. If the diet provided to you doesn’t work or if you’re gaining weight instead of losing it, contact your doctor right away so that they can work on finding a solution.

What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Before diving into causes and symptoms, as well as the best way to lose weight, it’s important to clear up any doubts regarding polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS, for short). This means explaining what it is and who can get it, as well as a bit of history when it was described. We believe it’s important for women to be aware of the medical conditions that can affect them, and although they may never experience them, someone close to them might.

To start with a little bit of medical history, PCOS was first described as an endocrine disorder in 1935 by American gynecologists Irving F. Stein Sr. and Michael L. Leventhal, and it has now become recognized as one of the most common causes of oligo ovulatory infertility among women[1]. Ever since then, PCOS has been thoroughly researched and it’s now known as a health problem caused by an imbalance of reproductive hormones. The name polycystic comes from the characteristic cysts that form on the ovaries, which are some of the main signs that a woman has developed PCOS.

This hormone imbalance can also affect the ovaries in the sense that they may not develop healthy eggs or if they do, they’re not released during ovulation[2]. Aside from the cysts, PCOS can cause missed or irregular periods, which can later lead to infertility.

Who can get polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Between 5% and 10% of women between 15 and 44, or childbearing years, have PCOS, and they’re more commonly diagnosed when they’re in their 20’s or 30’s[3].

However, your risk of developing PCOS increases if you have obesity or if this syndrome is common in your family.

The percentage of women who can get PCOS is also very high with one study[4] stating that up to 26.7% percent of women in the aforementioned age group have this syndrome, but despite these numbers, PCOS still goes widely undiagnosed or it takes several doctor visits, sometimes with different one, to get a proper diagnosis. This delay can cause frustration for patients and it can lead to development of other serious comorbidities if their PCOS is not treated properly.

Polycystic ovary syndrome has three features[5] and if you present two of the following ones, you can be diagnosed with PCOS:

  • Irregular periods
  • Excess androgen
  • Polycystic ovaries

However, we recommend that you get a clear diagnosis from your doctor before starting any treatment that involves medication or any other type of medical intervention.

Causes for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Doctors and researchers still haven’t found a clear cause for PCOS, but there are several factors that can increase a woman’s chance of developing polycystic ovary syndrome. The first one, as we have previously mentioned, is due to genetics, although the specific genes associated with the condition have not yet been identified[6].

Another probable cause for polycystic ovary syndrome is insulin resistance. Insulin is produced naturally by the pancreas to control the amount of sugar in our blood, but when a person has insulin resistance, their body’s tissues become resistant to the effects of insulin; thus, the body begins to produce more in order to compensate for the apparent lack.

The high levels of insulin causes the ovaries to produce too much testosterone, preventing the development of follicles and healthy ovulation.

It can also lead to weight gain, which in turn makes the body produce more insulin, worsening the symptoms of PCOS and putting women at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Studies[7] have shown that 70% of women with PCOS also have insulin resistance.

Hormone imbalance can also lead to PCOS and the women who have been diagnosed with this syndrome tend to lack or overproduce the following hormones:

  • Raised levels of testosterone.
  • High levels of luteinising hormone, which stimulates ovulation, but can affect the ovaries if the level rises.
  • Low levels of sex hormone-binding globulin.
  • High levels of prolactin, which can affect the breast glands that produce milk.

Polycystic ovary syndrome symptoms

Like with almost every other condition, symptoms for PCOS may vary from woman to woman; this means that some may not present symptoms or only mild ones, while others may suffer from intense or severe ones. Many women start noticing symptoms around their teenage years or in their early 20’s and these are some of them:

  • Irregular periods
  • Excessive hair growth (hirsutism)
  • Acne
  • Weight gain
  • Hair loss
  • Difficulty getting pregnant

Having PCOS doesn’t mean you can’t get pregnant at all and there are treatment options that can help you ovulate. Talk with your doctor if you’re trying to get pregnant and/or if you present any of the aforementioned symptoms.

How to Lose Weight with PCOS

There are many reasons why people with PCOS find it difficult to lose weight, such as hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and inflammation. It’s important to stay motivated throughout the weight loss journey, especially since one study[8] reported that even a small weight loss of about 5% can improve insulin resistance, hormone levels, menstrual cycles, fertility, and overall quality of life in people with PCOS.

Many women have tried to lose weight but have failed to do so by following crash diets or types of physical activities that don’t benefit them. We strongly recommend our patients to learn more about the type of food they eat, as well as to understand how PCOS alters their bodies, in order to successfully lose weight. Next, we’ll present some ways that women with PCOS can lose weight, as well as a brief explanation on how supplements can make this process easier.

As part of your new diet plan to lose weight, your nutritionist will recommend that you reduce your carb intake to reduce your insulin levels. In one study[9], people with PCOS followed a three week diet that consisted of 40% carbs and 45% fat and then another three week diet of 60% carbs and 25% fat. Protein intake was 15% of total daily calories during each phase. While blood sugar levels were similar during the two phases of the diet, insulin levels went down 30% during the lower carb, higher fat phase.

There are other changes that can be done to your diet if you have PCOS and want to lose weight, such as:

  • Increasing fiber intake: In one study[10], higher fiber intake was linked to lower insulin resistance, less total body fat, and less belly fat in people with PCOS.
  • Adding fermented foods: Eating foods high in probiotics may help increase the number of beneficial bacteria in your gut, thus, stimulating your metabolism and being able to lose weight.
  • Limiting processed foods and added sugars: People with PCOS may process sugar differently than those without it, as research[11] shows that women with PCOS experience larger spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels after consuming the same amount of sugar as women without this condition.

Supplements to Manage PCOS

Taking supplements while having PCOS can also help you to lose weight. Many studies have shown that the following supplements can help people, not only by reducing their insulin levels, but by actually allowing them to lose weight.

Some of the supplements that have been researched include myo-inositol, inositol, and carnitine.

Of course, we highly recommend that you talk to your doctor before taking any of these supplements to ensure that you lose weight in an effective and healthy way.

Contact Us to Learn More

If you want to learn more about the best way to lose weight while having PCOS, schedule an appointment with one of our doctors. We can help determine the right treatment for you. Contact us online anytime or give us a call at (619) 373-0229.

References

  • [1] Barry JA, Azizia MM, Hardiman PJ. Risk of endometrial, ovarian and breast cancer in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update. 2014 Sep-Oct;20(5):748-58. doi: 10.1093/humupd/dmu012. Epub 2014 Mar 30. PMID: 24688118; PMCID: PMC4326303.
  • [2] “Polycystic ovary syndrome”. https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/polycystic-ovary-syndrome. (Accessed June 25, 2023).
  • [3] Trivax, B., & Azziz, R. (2007). Diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome. Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology, 50(1), 168–177.
  • [4] March WA, Moore VM, Willson KJ, Phillips DI, Norman RJ, Davies MJ. The prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome in a community sample assessed under contrasting diagnostic criteria. Hum Reprod. 2010 Feb;25(2):544-51. doi: 10.1093/humrep/dep399. Epub 2009 Nov 12. PMID: 19910321.
  • [5] “Polycystic ovary syndrome”. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-PCOS/. (Accessed June 25, 2023).
  • [6] Goyal A, Ganie MA. Idiopathic Hyperprolactinemia Presenting as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Identical Twin Sisters: A Case Report and Literature Review. Cureus. 2018 Jul 19;10(7):e3004. doi: 10.7759/cureus.3004. PMID: 30250766; PMCID: PMC6145756.
  • [7] Marshall JC, Dunaif A. Should all women with PCOS be treated for insulin resistance? Fertil Steril. 2012 Jan;97(1):18-22. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.11.036. PMID: 22192137; PMCID: PMC3277302.
  • [8] Barber TM, Hanson P, Weickert MO, Franks S. Obesity and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Implications for Pathogenesis and Novel Management Strategies. Clin Med Insights Reprod Health. 2019 Sep 9;13:1179558119874042. doi: 10.1177/1179558119874042. PMID: 31523137; PMCID: PMC6734597.
  • [9] Perelman D, Coghlan N, Lamendola C, Carter S, Abbasi F, McLaughlin T. Substituting poly- and mono-unsaturated fat for dietary carbohydrate reduces hyperinsulinemia in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Gynecol Endocrinol. 2017 Apr;33(4):324-327. doi: 10.1080/09513590.2016.1259407. Epub 2016 Dec 2. PMID: 27910718.
  • [10] Cunha NBD, Ribeiro CT, Silva CM, Rosa-E-Silva ACJS, De-Souza DA. Dietary intake, body composition and metabolic parameters in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Clin Nutr. 2019 Oct;38(5):2342-2348. doi: 10.1016/j.clnu.2018.10.012. Epub 2018 Nov 3. PMID: 30449604.
  • [11] Vuguin P, Sopher AB, Roumimper H, Chin V, Silfen M, McMahon DJ, Fennoy I, Oberfield SE. Alterations in Glucose Effectiveness and Insulin Dynamics: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or Body Mass Index. Horm Res Paediatr. 2017;87(6):359-367. doi: 10.1159/000471804. Epub 2017 May 5. PMID: 28478437; PMCID: PMC5914159.
]]> Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome https://www.limarp.com/en/blog/infertility/polycystic-ovary-syndrome/ Fri, 04 Nov 2022 18:33:49 +0000 https://www.limarp.com/?p=6102 Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Women’s health, along with their rights to proper care and ownership of their bodies, has come a long way in the last few decades, this is due to the political movements that made this progress happen and to the emerging medical and clinical research that has finally focused on women as their sole study cases. This new research has shown a new light on how different illnesses or conditions affect women, such as obesity, depression, cancer, and reproductive issues. 

It has also helped the medical world, and us by extension, learn more about disorders that only affect women, as is the case with polycystic ovary syndrome. This syndrome is more common than one may think and most of the time it goes by undiagnosed, so for this article, we will talk more about polycystic ovary syndrome, as well as its causes, symptoms, and treatment, among other concerning topics. 

At LIMARP®, we care about our patient’s health and we strive to provide the best medical attention possible. Our team, led by Dr. Liza María Pompa González, is highly qualified to provide the information and treatment you need, as well as to guide you and answer any questions that may arise during and after your initial consultation. The information we’re about to present about polycystic ovary syndrome is general and illustrative, so it may not apply to every case; this is why it’s important to contact your doctor if you start seeing any irregularities in your period or if you’re experiencing any uncomfortable symptoms. 

What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Before diving into causes and symptoms, it’s important to clear up any doubts regarding polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS, for short). This means explaining what it is and who can get it, as well as a bit of history when it was described. We believe it’s important for women to be aware of the medical conditions that can affect them, and although they may never experience them, someone close to them might. 

To start with a little bit of medical history, PCOS was first described as an endocrine disorder in 1935 by American gynecologists Irving F. Stein Sr. and Michael L. Leventhal, and it has now become recognized as one of the most common causes of oligo ovulatory infertility among women[1]. Ever since then, PCOS has been thoroughly researched and it’s now known as a health problem caused by an imbalance of reproductive hormones. The name polycystic comes from the characteristic cysts that form on the ovaries, which are some of the main signs that a woman has developed PCOS.

This hormone imbalance can also affect the ovaries in the sense that they may not develop healthy eggs or if they do, they’re not released during ovulation[2]. Aside from the cysts, PCOS can cause missed or irregular periods, which can later lead to infertility. Now comes a different question: who can get PCOS? Between 5% and 10% of women between 15 and 44, or childbearing years, have PCOS, and they’re more commonly diagnosed when they’re in their 20’s or 30’s[3]. However, your risk of developing PCOS increases if you have obesity or if this syndrome is common in your family.

The percentage of women who can get PCOS is also very high with one study[4] stating that up to 26.7% percent of women in the aforementioned age group have this syndrome, but despite these numbers, PCOS still goes widely undiagnosed or it takes several doctor visits, sometimes with different one, to get a proper diagnosis. This delay can cause frustration for patients and it can lead to development of other serious comorbidities if their PCOS is not treated properly. 

Polycystic ovary syndrome has three features[5] and if you present two of the following ones, you can be diagnosed with PCOS:

  • Irregular periods
  • Excess androgen
  • Polycystic ovaries 

However, we recommend that you get a clear diagnosis from your doctor before starting any treatment that involves medication or any other type of medical intervention. 

Now that we’ve explained what PCOS is, let’s move on to some of its possible causes. 

Causes for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Doctors and researchers still haven’t found a clear cause for PCOS, but there are several factors that can increase a woman’s chance of developing polycystic ovary syndrome. The first one, as we have previously mentioned, is due to genetics, although the specific genes associated with the condition have not yet been identified[6].

Another probable cause for polycystic ovary syndrome is insulin resistance. Insulin is produced naturally by the pancreas to control the amount of sugar in our blood, but when a person has insulin resistance, their body’s tissues become resistant to the effects of insulin; thus, the body begins to produce more in order to compensate for the apparent lack. The high levels of insulin causes the ovaries to produce too much testosterone, preventing the development of follicles and healthy ovulation. It can also lead to weight gain, which in turn makes the body produce more insulin, worsening the symptoms of PCOS and putting women at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Studies[7] have shown that 70% of women with PCOS also have insulin resistance. 

Hormone imbalance can also lead to PCOS and the women who have been diagnosed with this syndrome tend to lack or overproduce the following hormones:

  • Raised levels of testosterone.
  • High levels of luteinising hormone, which stimulates ovulation, but can affect the ovaries if the level rises.
  • Low levels of sex hormone-binding globulin.
  • High levels of prolactin, which can affect the breast glands that produce milk.

Polycystic ovary syndrome symptoms

Like with almost every other condition, symptoms for PCOS may vary from woman to woman; this means that some may not present symptoms or only mild ones, while others may suffer from intense or severe ones. Many women start noticing symptoms around their teenage years or in their early 20’s and these are some of them:

  • Irregular periods 
  • Excessive hair growth (hirsutism)
  • Acne
  • Weight gain
  • Hair loss
  • Difficulty getting pregnant

Having PCOS doesn’t mean you can’t get pregnant at all and there are treatment options that can help you ovulate. Talk with your doctor if you’re trying to get pregnant and/or if you present any of the aforementioned symptoms.

Polycystic ovary syndrome treatment

PCOS is not curable, but there are different treatment approaches to help you manage it. These treatments can vary according to your symptoms and only your doctor will be able to create a plan based on your case and needs. Some of the things they may suggest to help you manage your symptoms include:

  • Making lifestyle changes, such as improving your diet and adding exercise to your daily routine. 
  • Going on birth control, either oral pills, patches, or vaginal rings.
  • In vitro fertilization (IVF), if you’re trying to get pregnant.
  • Other medications to treat symptoms such as hair loss or type 2 diabetes.

Contact Us to Learn More

If you want to learn more about polycystic ovary syndrome, schedule an appointment with one of our doctors. We can help determine the right treatment for you. Contact us online anytime or give us a call at (619) 373-0229.

References

  • [1] Barry JA, Azizia MM, Hardiman PJ. Risk of endometrial, ovarian and breast cancer in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update. 2014 Sep-Oct;20(5):748-58. doi: 10.1093/humupd/dmu012. Epub 2014 Mar 30. PMID: 24688118; PMCID: PMC4326303.
  • [2] “Polycystic ovary syndrome”. https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/polycystic-ovary-syndrome. (Accessed September 25, 2022).
  • [3] Trivax, B., & Azziz, R. (2007). Diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome. Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology, 50(1), 168–177.
  • [4] March WA, Moore VM, Willson KJ, Phillips DI, Norman RJ, Davies MJ. The prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome in a community sample assessed under contrasting diagnostic criteria. Hum Reprod. 2010 Feb;25(2):544-51. doi: 10.1093/humrep/dep399. Epub 2009 Nov 12. PMID: 19910321.
  • [5] “Polycystic ovary syndrome”. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos/. (Accessed September 25, 2022). 
  • [6] Goyal A, Ganie MA. Idiopathic Hyperprolactinemia Presenting as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Identical Twin Sisters: A Case Report and Literature Review. Cureus. 2018 Jul 19;10(7):e3004. doi: 10.7759/cureus.3004. PMID: 30250766; PMCID: PMC6145756.
  • [7] Marshall JC, Dunaif A. Should all women with PCOS be treated for insulin resistance? Fertil Steril. 2012 Jan;97(1):18-22. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.11.036. PMID: 22192137; PMCID: PMC3277302.
]]> Can You Lose Your Period If You’re Overweight? https://www.limarp.com/en/blog/infertility/lose-period-overweight/ Fri, 16 Sep 2022 21:02:43 +0000 https://www.limarp.com/?p=6053 Can You Lose Your Period If You’re Overweight?

Hitting puberty and getting your period marks the beginning of a new stage in a woman’s life. Their body starts going through a series of changes that alter their physical appearance, their health, and their overall lifestyle. The menstrual cycle also comes with hormonal fluctuation that changes from woman to woman and that dictates how long their period will last. From puberty to menopause, women go through this cycle which lasts for an average of 28 days and it consists of several stages where the body gets ready for a possible pregnancy. 

Having your period can bring forth various uncomfortable symptoms, such as cramps, tender breasts, bloating, mood swings, and lower back pain, among others. Every woman experiences their period differently, some of them barely notice these painful side effects, while others can experience more intense ones.

However, having a regular period, no matter the symptoms, is a signal of good health and balanced hormones, and while many women experience irregularities due to birth control, pregnancy, or changes in lifestyle, having an irregular or no period at all can be a sign of an underlying medical condition. 

There are many reasons why a woman might miss periods or have no periods at all, and if you’re experiencing this, we recommend you contact your doctor as soon as possible. At LIMARP®, we care about your overall health and our team of doctors, led by Dr. Liza María Pompa González, aims to provide the best treatments and guidance so that you can lead a healthy lifestyle. 

Weight fluctuations can have a significant impact on women’s menstrual cycle, whether it’s significant weight loss or sudden weight gain. It can also cause other complications that go beyond missed periods and can put you at risk of life-threatening conditions.

This article will focus on how being overweight or obese can lead to having irregular menstrual cycles or no periods at all, as well as the available treatments.

As we’ve mentioned in other articles, each patient’s case is different and while the information presented here can be of use, we strongly recommend that you make an appointment to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Before diving into the reasons why being overweight or obese can cause you to have no period, we’d like to discuss some of the other common reasons why you can have an irregular menstrual cycle. Missing your period or having inconsistent cycles from time to time is more normal than you may think and according to a 2019 study[1], more than 14% of women often find their periods to be irregular.

However, missing your period over a long period of time or losing it completely is known as amenorrhea. This condition is divided into two types, primary and secondary, with the latter one being the most common. The main reasons for having no period may be due to issues with the thyroid or pituitary glands, which regulate the metabolism and when healthy, produce the necessary hormones for a regular period. 

When it comes to thyroid issues, the gland can be either overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism). This means that the thyroid produces an abnormal amount of hormones that may result in many non-specific symptoms. Because the thyroid affects hormone levels, many individuals suffering from hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism struggle with weight loss. In fact, many have trouble shedding pounds even when exercising and dieting. This struggle can lead a person to becoming overweight or obese, which can also lead to other complications, amenorrhea and hyperestrogenism among them. 

While your weight can be affected due to hyper or hypothyroidism, thus causing the loss of your period, this too can happen if you are suffering from an eating disorder, such as anorexia or bulimia nervosa. These disorders can make you severely underweight, which can also cause you to have no period; this occurs because your body doesn’t have enough body fat to store the estrogen needed to carry on a healthy menstrual cycle[2]. This decline in estrogen not only causes missed periods, but it also puts you at risk of developing osteoporosis[3].

Obesity or being overweight can be caused for a number of reasons, such as thyroid problems, eating disorders like BED, mental health issues such as depression, or genetics. Genes certainly play a role, but statistics from the last few decades indicate that the environment plays an even more important one. The American Psychological Association states that “the causes of obesity are rarely limited to genetic factors, overeating or leading a sedentary lifestyle. What we do and not do often is the result of how we think and how we feel”[4].

Obesity affects everyone around the world with data suggesting that “the number of obese people in the world has tripled since 1975 to roughly 30% of the total population”[5], and this number continues to rise. 

This disorder is one of the leading causes of death because it dramatically decreases a person’s life expectancy. Obesity puts people at higher risk for several diseases or illnesses, such as: diabetes, heart disease, certain types of cancer, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, strokes, and high blood pressure. Secondary amenorrhea can also be caused by obesity or excess weight. 

Being overweight can result in irregular menstrual cycles or having no period at all, and this is due to the high estrogen levels in your body. As we’ve mentioned before, estrogen is stored in your body’s fat and being overweight can make your body produce an excess amount of this hormone.

This is also known as hyperestrogenism, which is “a medical condition characterized by an excessive amount of estrogenic activity in the body”[6].

Balanced hormone levels are necessary for a healthy menstrual cycle and being overweight leads to an imbalance that ultimately results in having no period at all. 

It’s important for your doctor to properly diagnose if your missing periods are truly caused by being overweight; if so, they may recommend lifestyle changes such as following a healthy diet and taking up exercising. In case you’re suffering from obesity and need further medical intervention, they will recommend several options that may include surgical procedures.  

If being overweight is not the reason you have no period or the sudden weight gain was caused by other conditions, your doctor will perform a series of tests to determine the underlying medical condition and be able to provide proper treatment. Each case is different and it’s important to get diagnosed in order to be as healthy as possible.

Contact Us to Learn More

If you’re overweight and lost your period, schedule an appointment with one of our doctors. We can help determine the right treatment for you. Contact us online anytime or give us a call at (619) 373-0229.

References

  • [1] Kwak Y, Kim Y, Baek KA. Prevalence of irregular menstruation according to socioeconomic status: A population-based nationwide cross-sectional study. PLoS One. 2019 Mar 19;14(3):e0214071. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0214071. PMID: 30889222; PMCID: PMC6424400.
  • [2] “How does being underweight affect a woman’s health?” https://www.womenshealth.gov/healthy-weight/underweight. (Accessed August 30, 2022).
  • [3] Shufelt CL, Torbati T, Dutra E. Hypothalamic Amenorrhea and the Long-Term Health Consequences. Semin Reprod Med. 2017 May;35(3):256-262. doi: 10.1055/s-0037-1603581. Epub 2017 Jun 28. PMID: 28658709; PMCID: PMC6374026.
  • [4] “Mind/body health: Obesity”. https://www.apa.org/topics/obesity/mind-body-health. (Accessed August 30, 2022).
  • [5] “Most Obese Countries 2022”. https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/most-obese-countries. (Accessed August 30, 2022). 
  • [6] “About Hyperestrogenism”. https://fertilitypedia.org/edu/diagnoses/hyperestrogenism. (Accessed August 30, 2022).
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