Black women · Hormonal Health · PCOS · Pregnancy ·

Managing PCOS Fatigue: A Guide for Black Women

Hey queens! Today, let's shine a spotlight on a topic close to the hearts of many Black women in America - PCOS. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent hormonal disorder that affects many women worldwide. Unfortunately, Black women are particularly prone to experiencing the challenges associated with PCOS. 

Picture this: you wake up feeling exhausted, your skin is breaking out like never before, and your mood swings are off the charts. Sounds familiar? PCOS is more than just a hormonal imbalance; it's a tough journey that can impact our physical, emotional, and even mental well-being.

PCOS is a complex condition with symptoms that can vary from person to person. Some of the key characteristics of PCOS include hormonal imbalances, cysts on the ovaries, and irregular menstrual cycles. It is also associated with insulin resistance. Black women with PCOS may also be at higher risk for other health issues such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

How To Recognize the Symptoms of PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

The symptoms of PCOS can manifest in different ways and may include:

  1. Irregular periods or no periods at all
  2. Excessive hair growth on the face, chest, or back (hirsutism)
  3. Acne or oily skin
  4. Thinning hair or male-pattern baldness
  5. Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
  6. Darkening of the skin, particularly along the neck creases, in the groin, and underneath the breasts (acanthosis nigricans) see more symptoms

PCOS affects how ovaries work and can have a significant impact on fertility, as irregular ovulation or lack of ovulation can make it challenging for women with PCOS to conceive. However, with proper management and medical intervention, many women with PCOS can become pregnant. 

What Is the Connection Between PCOS and Fatigue?

Fatigue is a common symptom that impacts the quality of life of many women with PCOS. The hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome can contribute to your chronic fatigue and low energy levels. 

Insulin resistance makes the body less responsive to insulin and makes it more difficult to convert glucose into energy. It can also cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate, creating feelings of tiredness or daytime sleepiness. Elevated levels of androgens like testosterone can disrupt sleep patterns, meaning you get poor sleep. 

Other physical symptoms of PCOS, like irregular menstrual cycles, weight gain, and excessive hair growth, can contribute to your fatigue when they impact your mental health. The increase in your stress and anxiety makes the tiredness worse. If you have developed iron deficiency anemia from your heavy periods, that may also add to your fatigue and low energy levels.

Is PCOS More Risky for Black Women?

Research shows that Black women are disproportionately affected by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). More research finds that Black women with PCOS are shown to have higher rates of hirsutism, insulin resistance, obesity, and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease or metabolic syndrome which includes increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), 6% to 12%, approximately 5 million women of reproductive age in the United States are affected by this syndrome. 

What Do I Need To Know About Getting a PCOS Diagnosis?

Diagnosing PCOS usually involves a combination of medical history evaluation, physical exams, blood tests to measure hormone levels, and ultrasound to check for cysts on the ovaries. Once diagnosed, treatment for PCOS aims to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of complications. Treatment options may include lifestyle modifications, such as healthy eating and regular exercise, medications to regulate menstrual cycles and improve insulin sensitivity, and in some cases, fertility treatments for those trying to conceive.

Is PCOS Underdiagnosed?

Although 1 in 10 women of childbearing age are affected by this condition, PCOS is still largely misunderstood and underdiagnosed. One of the reasons PCOS can be more challenging for Black women is due to the lack of awareness and representation in medical research. Studies have shown that Black women are less likely to be diagnosed with PCOS compared to women of other ethnicities. This can lead to delays in receiving proper treatment and support.

According to Rebecca E. Campbell, Ph.D, et al. (2017), PCOS is a broad-spectrum disorder unlikely to stem from a single common origin. Despite the prevalence of PCOS, there isn’t a clear understanding of its cause. However, the role of androgens in PCOS is well understood and recognized as being responsible for the development and manifestation of PCOS and other related conditions that often accompany PCOS. In addition, multiple genetic and environmental factors play an important role in the occurrence of PCOS (Ritu Deswal et al., 2020).

Managing PCOS in Black women often involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and support from healthcare professionals. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques can all play a crucial role in managing symptoms and improving overall well-being. 

Which Vitamins and Supplements Can Help Manage PCOS Symptoms?

Inositol

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Inositol also helps your body use insulin more effectively, which in turn can regulate your menstrual cycle, improve ovulation, and reduce testosterone levels. Since androgens such as testosterone are responsible for the development and manifestation of PCOS, inositol can help manage symptoms by reducing androgens in the body. Think of it as a natural hormone balancer that supports your body in its journey toward hormonal harmony. As a bonus, inositol may also combat PCOS fatigue by improving your energy levels and reducing chronic fatigue. 

Prenatal Vitamins

Prenatal vitamins can also play a role in managing insulin levels. Taking prenatal vitamins is not limited to just pregnancy; they can also be beneficial for women who are trying to conceive. Prenatal vitamins containing essential nutrients like folic acid, Zinc, and vitamin D3 can support reproductive health in individuals with PCOS. 

Many women with PCOS have a vitamin B12 deficiency or low iron, and, in severe cases, women with PCOS may develop iron deficiency anemia. Being too low in these vitamins can contribute to feeling sluggish or excessively tired. Combating these deficiencies with prenatal vitamins may offer relief.


Omega-DHA

Omega-DHA can also help. Omega-DHA is a specific type of omega-3 fatty acid that's like a miracle worker for hormone balance, brain health, and overall well-being. Incorporating omega-3 rich foods into your diet can help balance your hormones and alleviate some of the symptoms associated with PCOS. Taking omega-DHA may also support healthy insulin sensitivity and healthy blood sugar levels. These benefits make it an important component of your fight against PCOS fatigue. see more

What Are Some Other Supplements To Consider?

Here are three other supplements that deserve an honorable mention on this list:

Beating PCOS Fatigue Is Possible

Managing your PCOS fatigue requires a multifaceted approach that can involve lifestyle changes, medical treatments, and support from trusted doctors.Understanding the challenges you face as a Black woman with PCOS will make it easier for you to determine the strategies that will best help you manage your symptoms. 

Remember, it is crucial to work closely with healthcare professionals to find the best approach for your individual needs. Let's continue to raise awareness and support each other in the fight against PCOS. 

Together, we can overcome the challenges of PCOS and thrive together.

Sources:

How Does Diabetes Affect Mood and Relationships | Medical News Today

PCOS: Daily Dose of Vitamin D | Lewis College

Heavy Periods: Can Folic Acid Help? | Mayo Clinic

Magnesium supplementation enhances insulin sensitivity | PMC

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