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07 5564 6501
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07 5564 6501
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age and can significantly impact overall health.
One of the most challenging aspects of PCOS is its close association with obesity, which creates a cycle of hormonal imbalance, insulin resistance, and difficulty in managing weight.
PCOS is characterised by elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) and insulin resistance. Insulin resistance means the body is less responsive to insulin, leading to an increase in insulin production.
This excess insulin contributes to weight gain, particularly around the abdominal area, and worsens PCOS symptoms. Elevated androgens can also lead to irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, and even infertility.
Many women with PCOS find that traditional weight loss strategies, such as dieting and exercise, don’t work as effectively due to these hormonal imbalances.
Insulin resistance makes it harder for the body to burn fat, and hormonal fluctuations drive increased cravings and overeating, making it a vicious cycle.
There is a strong relationship between obesity and PCOS. While PCOS can make it more difficult to lose weight, obesity itself exacerbates PCOS symptoms.
Excess body fat increases the production of oestrogen, leading to further hormonal imbalance. In turn, this can worsen insulin resistance, increase inflammation, and heighten the risk of developing additional health issues such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease.
Additionally, being overweight can make PCOS symptoms like irregular periods, infertility, and metabolic problems worse. Studies show that women with PCOS who manage to lose even a modest amount of weight—around 5% to 10% of their body weight—can experience significant improvements in their symptoms, including more regular menstrual cycles, improved fertility, and reduced androgen levels.
For women who struggle to manage their weight through traditional methods, weight loss surgery (bariatric surgery) can be a powerful tool.
Bariatric surgery has been shown to significantly reduce insulin resistance and lead to lasting weight loss, which can improve the hormonal imbalance associated with PCOS.
Here are some key benefits that weight loss surgery can offer to women with PCOS:
At Surgery Gold Coast, we understand that managing PCOS and obesity requires more than just surgery. That’s why we offer a holistic, multidisciplinary approach that includes support from a team of specialists, including a weight loss GP, dietitians, and psychologists.
Our aim is to create a personalised care plan that addresses the unique needs of each patient, whether through surgical or non-surgical options.
For women with PCOS, weight loss surgery can be a life-changing option. It offers not only a path to sustainable weight loss but also the potential to significantly improve hormonal balance, fertility, and overall health.
If you’re struggling with PCOS and weight management, know that you’re not alone. The connection between PCOS, obesity, and insulin resistance can make weight loss more challenging, but solutions are available.
Weight loss surgery, when combined with a personalised care plan, can help you regain control over your health and improve your quality of life.
Consult with Dr Jason Free and the Surgery Gold Coast team to explore how our multidisciplinary services can support you on your weight loss journey and help you better manage your PCOS symptoms.
For more information, visit Surgery Gold Coast or call us at 07 5564 6501 to schedule a consultation.
At Surgery Gold Coast our values are to provide you with friendly service and an efficient pathway through your surgical journey. We work hard to make your experience as simple as possible.
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