THE PCOS guide for husbands!

If your partner has irregular periods and sudden weight gain, then; she is suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). And dear husbands, she is not alone! At least 1 in 10 women has PCOS. Yes, it might be a little scary to hear that, but please understand that she can live a healthy life if her PCOS gets managed well. But first, understand PCOS.

Husbands, read this very carefully. It is all about PCOS here!

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder, a very natural disorder common among reproductive women. In this disorder, women with PCOS have infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods. During this, the ovaries may develop numerous small fluid collections and fail to release eggs. Early detection of PCOS can reduce complications such as heart disease, Type2 diabetes, and infertility. So, husbands, understand this your partner will have to make changes in her lifestyle by consulting her doctor regularly. And this isn’t an inherently dangerous disease at all. I know there are many challenges in living with a PCOS woman, but husbands, your constant attention will help her get through this. As a woman, I understand that having a loving partner who can work alongside her makes all the difference during PCOS.

Symptoms of PCOS you should know:

  Women who have PCOS tend to have symptoms related to elevated androgen levels. So, common symptoms of PCOS are:

• Irregular or missing periods.
• Abnormal hair growth.
• Sudden and excessive weight gain
•  Thinning of hair
• Acne or pimples
•  Skin darkening

 Things to know if your better half has PCOS:

• She did not cause it; she was born with it.
• Something stressful incident in her life contributed to making it seem to appear all of a sudden.
• There is no “PCOS for husbands” class; you will know more about this through medical experts.
•  Even though the symptoms of PCOS are the same, every woman’s PCOS is not the same.
• There are different levels of PCOS. Some women’s PCOS can be mild, while it can be a little complex.
• Not getting her period does not mean that she is pregnant.
• When a woman is suffering from PCOS: she will have difficulty losing weight. Husbands, you have to be extremely supportive when your partner is trying to lose weight.
• Getting pregnant is painful for her.
•  Her sex drive is stronger than average because of testosterone.
• PCOS causes a hit on a woman’s femininity. So, you are responsible for reminding her how much you love and cherish her.

How is it diagnosed?

 I know, that when your woman is suffering from PCOS, she may feel a bit frustrated if she is recently diagnosed with PCOS. And do you know that about 75% of women suffering from PCOS may be undiagnosed due to the variability of symptoms and lack of knowledge? The reason behind this is that these symptoms are common during teenage days. Plus, the use of birth control pills also makes it worse. So, when a doctor takes a history and does your partner’s physical examination, she will see these symptoms.

PCOS Management:

   The specific therapies used for PCOS depend on several factors and her desire to have pregnant. So, maintaining a healthy weight by doing regular exercise and having a healthy diet is essential. She should regularly consult her doctor for BP, diabetes, and cholesterol. She also needs to check with her gynecologist to make sure that she is getting her regular period.

Talking to your partner about PCOS:

• Be kind and gentle. It is a sensitive topic.
• Talk to her in a hopeful way.
• Always remember that PCOS conversation brings big-time changes.
• Go with her to doctor appointments and procedures.

Supporting your partner throughout her PCOS journey:

There are many things you should be supportive of your partner, especially when she is suffering from PCOS.

Firstly, make lifestyle changes with her. It is much easier to stick to a healthy diet when your partner does it with you. Instead of going out for dinner, plan cycling dates. It will make also make you healthy.

Secondly, learn about the treatments for PCOS so that even you can discuss her decisions. Most women appreciate their partners for taking a particular interest in them. Consider going to the doctor’s appointments with her. It will make her feel good.

Have patience throughout this journey. PCOS is a journey that not only affects hormonal levels; but also brings anxiety and frustration. So, if your partner is irritable, try to separate her behavior.

Sexual concerns can be a problem for couples having PCOS. So, make sure that instead of getting angry, be supportive and understanding because she is struggling with her self-esteem.

 The bottom line:

I know PCOS is challenging for couples. But, it is important to stay conscious of how discussions about how PCOS can affect your life. Be open and flexible to accept the changes. Your bond will automatically grow stronger as you work on finding solutions together. So, do not leave her, be with her!