PCOS Weight Gain That Won't Budge No Matter What You Try

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) creates several challenges for the 5-6 million women in America estimated to have the condition. For some, weight gain and difficulty shedding those excess pounds are one of the most challenging aspects of PCOS.

At Creekside OB/GYN of Folsom, people have access to Timothy Phelan, MD, a compassionate women’s health provider who understands the complexity of PCOS. Our office is proud to share some insight into how difficult it is to lose weight with this condition. 

How does PCOD affect weight?

Polycystic ovary syndrome is primarily a hormonal disorder. Women who develop the condition often have higher-than-average levels of testosterone, which can create an imbalance in their sex hormones. 

PCOS can affect insulin sensitivity, making it difficult to use insulin to “unlock” cells and allow glucose to fuel cell activity. This can cause glucose to build up to dangerous levels within your blood and also starve cells of the nourishment they need. 

This ongoing cycle leaves many women at a weight that is not in line with their overall health and wellness goals. Finding a path toward a healthier weight is not always easy, and many women begin to feel hopeless about their weight. 

Begin by focusing on managing your PCOS

Every woman diagnosed with PCOS has a unique experience with the condition. Very often it goes undiagnosed for long periods, making it impossible to effectively manage the condition and leaving you without the medical support you need. 

The first step in trying to lose weight with PCOS is working with a highly skilled women’s health specialist to manage the condition. Dr. Phelan creates customized treatment plans for the women in his care, including those with PCOS. 

For many, hormonal birth control methods can help rebalance sex hormones and stabilize the endocrine system. It can take some time for your body to adapt, so be patient. Other women benefit from taking medications called anti-androgens that work by blocking male sex hormones. 

Some drugs used to manage diabetes are also helpful in balancing sex hormones and improving insulin sensitivity. Finding the right fit involves partnering with Dr. Phelan and paying close attention to the changes that develop after beginning a new medication. 

Don’t discount the power of lifestyle changes

Many times, when diet and exercise efforts fail to yield the desired results, it’s because the efforts were shaped around unsustainable changes. Virtually anyone can drop weight with an extremely limited diet plan or excessive exercise routines. But few can sustain those efforts over time, and the weight comes back once your daily habits shift. 

A more effective way to achieve lasting weight loss is by incorporating sustainable changes into your daily habits. 

Explore new cooking styles, try new fruits and vegetables each week, and look for healthier replacements for highly processed food items. Give yourself the freedom to say “no thank you” to options that you don’t love, and embrace those you find appealing. 

Be similarly adventurous when it comes to exercise. If you hate running, don’t run. If swimming makes you feel invigorated and joyful, find a nearby pool or lake and make water exercise part of your routine. Start small and allow yourself to celebrate even minor improvements. 

Explore all weight loss options

Weight gain and weight loss are complex, and everyone’s body works a bit differently. If you’re struggling to lose weight after managing your PCOS and making lifestyle changes, it might be time to take a closer look at your overall health. 

Many people who struggle with weight loss have underlying medical conditions. Ask us to screen you for issues like thyroid problems. If you’re taking medication for chronic health conditions, those drugs might be interfering with your weight management. 

Weight loss medications can help you drop excess weight relatively quickly, but they aren’t a good fit for everyone. Options like gastric bypass surgery are also effective for many people.

Booking a visit is fast and easy, whether you choose to connect with us online or over the phone. You can give us a call at 916-984-7428, or try our easy online booking option.