In the observance of PCOS Awareness Month this September, efforts are being made to enhance the quality of life for individuals grappling with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) while also addressing the associated risks of life-threatening conditions. Research has already established that women with PCOS face nearly three times the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, as demonstrated by the ‘Women’s Health Study’ conducted jointly by Apple and Harvard.
However, a crucial question arises: What is the connection between PCOS and elevated blood pressure?
According to Dr. Tripti Sharan, a senior consultant at the Centre for Women’s Health, BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, the root cause in many PCOS cases is insulin resistance, leading to elevated insulin levels, weight gain, menstrual irregularities, and increased androgen levels resulting in polycystic ovaries, acne, and hirsutism.
“All these factors also contribute to an increase in unhealthy lipids, such as triglycerides. These factors, both individually and collectively, can contribute to high blood pressure, which, coupled with elevated triglycerides, escalates the risk of cardiovascular complications,” Dr. Sharan explained.
Nevertheless, Dr. Astha Dayal from the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department at C K Birla Hospital, Gurugram, pointed out that certain studies have shown that PCOS, independently of diabetes and obesity, can also act as a risk factor for high blood pressure. This is likely due to the elevated levels of androgens in women with PCOS.
Dr. Dayal further highlighted that women with PCOS face a 40 percent higher likelihood of developing high blood pressure. However, it is essential to note that not all women with PCOS are equally at risk.
“Those who are overweight or obese, lead sedentary lifestyles, experience high stress levels, have poor sleep patterns, consume imbalanced diets, smoke, ingest excessive fats and salts, or develop high blood sugar are the individuals at the highest risk of hypertension,” Dr. Sharan emphasized. She also noted that pregnancy among such patients can predispose them to gestational diabetes and high blood pressure.
So, how can women with PCOS manage their blood pressure effectively? Experts offer the following recommendations:
Adopt a Healthy Diet: Focus on a diet that limits carbohydrates and fats while also minimizing sodium intake to help reduce blood pressure.
Regular Exercise: Follow a consistent exercise routine, abstain from smoking and alcohol consumption, manage stress, and maintain a proper sleep schedule.
Diverse Exercise Regimen: Engage in a variety of exercises, including cardio activities like running, cycling, swimming, aerobics, skipping, or dancing. Additionally, incorporate weightlifting into your routine 2-3 times a week.
By heeding these expert-endorsed tips, women with PCOS can take proactive measures to manage and mitigate the risk of high blood pressure, promoting their overall health and well-being.
