Metabolic Syndrome and Gynecologic Health

I was very honored to be asked to answer some questions for some ladies to discuss their Healthy Future Marriage–and I thought, let’s do a blog post!

I’m not a gynecologist, but guess what? Your metabolic health can affect EVERY ORGAN SYSTEM!!

For women, it’s important to remember that a healthy lifestyle isn’t just about fitting into that perfect outfit, it’s also about a healthy heart, healthy ovaries, and a healthy uterus!

Many gynecological problems are related to metabolic syndrome and unhealthy BMI, in particular, PCOS, endometrial polyps and cancer, and uterine fibroids (honestly, these are some I was asked specifically to touch on—there may be others).

PCOS

PCOS is polycystic ovarian syndrome. Many women present because of irregular periods. They may have more hair in places we like to pluck and wax. What I would find on my evaluation is hormone imbalances, sometimes I see the cysts on the ovaries, many times the BMI is increased, and many times there is some insulin resistance. See the last two—we are touching on metabolic syndrome here. PCOS is much more likely to be associated with metabolic syndrome, and women who lose significant weight (which tends to reverse metabolic syndrome) can see improvement or reversal on their PCOS. Additionally, one of the treatments for PCOS is metformin, a medication used in diabetes management. It normally helps control the periods and improve fertility.

Fibroids

Uterine leiomyoma (fibroid) benign masses that grow on the uterus. A couple of studies have shown that there is may be an association between fibroid developing metabolic syndrome.

Endometrial Polyps

Endometrial polyps and cancer are tumors of the lining of the uterus. They have a known association with BMI>30, diabetes, and hypertension (things that make up metabolic syndrome). They are so frequently associated that they are known as the “metabolic triad” of endometrial cancer.

1. Adipose tissue is an endocrine organ. In excess it secretes hormones that may promote cancer growth
2. Hyperglycemia promotes an environment for cancer cell growth
3. Insulin resistance promotes cancer growth by promoting IGF-1 (a growth factor). (Metformin has a role here as well)

So, what do we do about it?

1. Eat well. I always say that a healthy diet begins with a healthy plate. Plant based diets are extremely evidence based, but if you are sticking to a healthy plate, you are on your way!
2. Move as much as possible! Cardiovascular exercise if at least 150 minutes weekly, plus strength and stretch is recommended.

I tend to believe that if you focus your efforts in these two things, the health follows. (You can also find other tips about decreasing stress through meditation and getting enough sleep in the Wellness tab). If you are having problems after trying these, then discuss with a healthcare professional who can help you further!