Journalism of Courage
This is an archive article published on September 11, 2023
Are women with PCOS at increased risk of high blood pressure?
PCOS Awareness Month: It is known that women with PCOS are almost 3 times more likely to have type 2 diabetes, according to a study titled ‘Women’s Health Study’ by Apple and Harvard
PCOS is an increasingly common condition among women (Source: Getty Images)
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Are women with PCOS at increased risk of high blood pressure?
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Every year, September is observed as PCOS Awareness Month in a bid to improve the lives of those affected by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and to help them overcome their symptoms as well as prevent and reduce their risks for life-threatening conditions. It is widely known that women with PCOS are almost three times more likely to have type 2 diabetes, according to a study titled ‘Women’s Health Study’ by Apple and Harvard.
But, what is the link between PCOS and blood pressure? We reached out to experts to know more.
Dr Tripti Sharan, senior consultant, Centre for Women Health, BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, explained that the primary aetiology in most cases is that insulin resistance causes high insulin levels, leading to weight gain, menstrual irregularities, and high androgen levels which cause polycystic ovaries, acne, and hirsutism.
“All these also cause a rise in bad lipids such as triglycerides. Most of these factors — independently as well as together — can give rise to high blood pressure, which along with high triglycerides, increase the risk of cardiovascular complications,” she said.
However, Dr Astha Dayal, obstetrics and gynaecology department, C K Birla Hospital, Gurugram, shared that some studies have shown that even if we don’t regard diabetes and obesity as risk factors, PCOS independently is also a risk factor for high blood pressure. “And that is possibly because of the high level of androgens in the body of women.”
Women with PCOS are at risk of hypertension (Source: Getty Images)
Dr Dayal noted that women with PCOS have a 40 per cent higher chance of developing high blood pressure. However, the experts said that not all women with PCOS are at risk of developing high blood pressure.
“Those who are overweight or obese, follow a sedentary lifestyle, stress a lot, don’t sleep well, do not eat a balanced diet, smoke, eat a lot of fats and salts, or develop high blood sugars are the ones at the greatest risk of developing high blood pressure,” Dr Sharan said, adding that pregnancy in these patients can predispose them to gestational diabetes and high blood pressure.
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How can women with PCOS keep their blood pressure in check? Follow these expert-recommended tips:
– A healthy diet, limiting carbs and fats and also limiting sodium in your diet will help in reducing blood pressure.
– Follow a regular exercise regime, avoid smoking and alcohol, avoid stress, and have a proper sleep cycle.
– Exercise should be a mix of cardio such as running, cycling, swimming, aerobics, skipping, or dancing. They should also lift weights 2-3 times a week.
– If they have high lipids, their doctor might need to advise medicines along with the above measures. This is also important to prevent high blood pressure.
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– They should get their routine screening done and follow the doctor’s advice.
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