Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition characterized by menstrual abnormalities and clinical, biochemical features of hyperandrogenism. There is an excess of androgens (male hormone) and lack of regular ovulation (release of an egg from the ovary).

(Source: http://onhealth.com)

It’s also sometimes referred to as "hyperandrogen anovulation syndrome"
or "Stein Leventhal syndrome".

PCOS has increased recently with the realization that this syndrome involves far more than the reproductive system. Initially it was called Stein Leventhal syndrome after it's researchers in the 1930's.

PCOS is now recognized as being a metabolic syndrome which may include; hyperinsulinaemia, hyper-lipidemia, diabetes, mellitus and possible cardiac disease, as well as the more congenitally recognized increase in androgen levels, cosmetic problems, anovulation, infertility, endometrial cancer and obesity. It is often tricky to diagnose because no two cases are alike. 1 in 10 women of child bearing age have PCOS.

It’s the most common cause of infertility, when combined with the body being resistant to insulin. A hormonal imbalance that makes it difficult for the ovaries to function may be caused.

Causes of PCOS

* May be genetic
* Lifestyle contributors
* Lack of physical activity
* Excess body weight in the majority of sufferers
* Nutritional factors

Exercise benefits and lifestyle changes

* Loss of weight, even a 5% loss of weight will reduce insulin resistance and result in symptom improvement.
* It will restore ovulation.
* Reduced symptoms.
* Reduces the risk of diabetes; insulin resistance; and cardiovascular disease (CVD).
* Implement a dietary plan, similar to diabetics with low GI (glycemic Index) food.
* High protein, low carbohydrate diets are good in the initial weight loss phase.
* Any physical activity, even without weight loss, can effectively reduce insulin resistance.
* Improves self esteem.
* Reduces cardiovascular disease CVD risk.
* Reduces weight.

VIBES fitness has designed a workout which is cost effective and easy to implement. Regular, low-fat-burning walking with a pedometer for 8000 steps PER DAY is ALL you need!

Working out in a group or own your own we can monitor a workout to tailor your needs and lifestyle. You will find it easy to implement into your daily life. You CHOOSE TO JOIN our groups 3 times a week or check in with us once a week, and then we give you homework to do (exercises at home).

Choose to help yourself today. Call us for a obligation free chat.

Testimonial

I have been diagnosed with PCOS this year, September 2006. I have had weight problems all my life. Some would call me "apple shaped". I started with VIBES in mid September. My conditions were; high blood pressure (extremely high), obesity, period problems, and I was unable to get pregnant as much as I would love to. During my teenage years I had bulimia, sugar levels of 15.2, was depressed and hated myself.

It’s now mid November, 2 months later. My sugar levels have dropped to 6, blood pressure is normal, I have lost one stone, I am happy and have learned to like, even love myself. Thank you Margie for having the patience, persistence and energy to keep me going.

Monica, Carlton, Melbourne, Victoria.