Latest medical updates

I’ve had a whole range of tests over the past few months. My GP sent me to a weight loss specialist (although I’m not overweight - my BMI is 24), who she felt might be able give better advice in terms of PCOS. I’m also seeing a slightly alternative doctor (she describes herself as a ‘Nutrition and Integrative Medicine Specialist’). I’ve had conventional tests such as a regular blood test and an ultrasound to check on my ovaries, and less conventional ones such as live blood analysis and a saliva test.

Apparently, I no longer have PCOS! I still have some of the cosmetic symptoms of PCOS, but I don’t have the PCOS hormone profile, my ovaries look ‘normal’ and I have regular periods. I was diagnosed with PCOS 13 years ago based on a whole range of symptoms, and the diagnosis was confirmed by an endocrinologist. Since then, other members of my extended family have also had it diagnosed. The doctor I’m seeing at the moment believes I have got rid of it through a healthy lifestyle.

Apparently for the most part, I’m very healthy. However the tests do suggest I have some adrenal dysfunction (probably from stress), a mild leaky gut problem, a slight hormonal imbalance (a little low on progesterone), and very low melatonin levels. I’m now taking melatonin in the evening, supplements to repair the digestive system, support the adrenal system and regulate the menstrual cycle, and am following a diet (which includes no sugar / refined carbs) to help with these things. I am also continuing with the “women’s balance” supplement, as without it my sleep again reduced to almost nothing.

In addition to the supplements/diet, I’ve also started meditation classes.

I’m sleeping relatively well, although still have some bad nights (on average in the last month I have slept for just under 6 hours). However I’m mostly feeling quite a lot better.

Possible pathways linking PCOS and insomnia

These are two pathways by which PCOS may cause insomnia:

(1) via glucose intolerance / insulin resistance
(2) via an imbalance of the ratio of oestrogen to progesterone

From what I’ve read, insulin resistance / high blood glucose levels put pressure on the adrenal glands, resulting in the release of too much cortisol. This excess of cortisol promotes anxiety and makes it difficult to relax, and fall asleep.

The second pathway is about an excess of oestrogen and lack of progesterone – two female hormones. Many conventional doctors disagree, but according to Patient Advocates Ltd (the link is provided) and a naturopath I saw a few years ago, progesterone is the ‘feel good’ hormone. Here’s a list of some of the things it does:

* Reduces mood disorders (eg. anxiety, depression)
* Relieves endometriosis and PCOS
* Increases energy and libido
* Balances blood sugar levels and thyroid function
* Is necessary for fertility and maintaining pregnancy
* Relieves menopausal symptoms
* Reduces hair loss
* Improves sleep

Progesterone levels can be increased by using a progesterone cream. I’ve been prescribed this cream in the past, but haven’t used it (yet) for treating insomnia. However from what I’ve been told, the “women’s balance” supplement that I'm taking - and listed in the previous blog - also helps to improve the oestrogen/progesterone ratio.