Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects millions of women and doesn’t pause with the seasons. In fact, fall can make symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, and mood swings feel more intense. This season is an ideal time to check in with your hormone health, nutrition, and lifestyle to stay balanced and well.
What Is PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a hormonal disorder that affects about 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. It’s characterized by an imbalance of reproductive hormones, which can cause a variety of symptoms including irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth, weight gain, and difficulties with fertility. PCOS can also impact your metabolism, increasing your risk for insulin resistance, diabetes, and heart disease.
Because PCOS is a complex condition, symptoms vary widely between individuals. This is why personalized care is so important.
Why Fall Can Be Tough for PCOS Symptoms
Seasonal changes affect everyone’s mood and energy levels, but for women with PCOS, the transition to fall and winter can bring added challenges:
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Increased Fatigue: Shorter days and less sunlight can impact your body’s natural rhythms and energy levels. Combined with the fatigue often linked to PCOS, this can make you feel more drained.
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Weight Fluctuations: Cooler weather often means changes in activity levels and eating habits, which can make weight management tougher. PCOS-related insulin resistance can also make it harder to maintain a healthy weight.
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Mood Changes: Seasonal shifts can worsen anxiety and depression, both of which are more common in women with PCOS. The combination of hormonal imbalance and reduced sunlight exposure can deepen mood swings or feelings of low motivation.
Dr. Leveno, OBGYN at Medical City Plano, TX, helps patients understand how seasonal changes impact their symptoms and works with them to develop strategies that promote better mental and physical balance throughout the colder months.
How Dr. Leveno Can Help You Manage PCOS
Dr. Leveno, practicing at At Medical City Plano, understands how disruptive PCOS can be and offers a comprehensive, individualized approach to care.
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Hormone Management: Routine evaluations and lab work can help identify imbalances. Treatment options like hormone therapy or medications may reduce symptoms like irregular periods, acne, and excess hair growth.
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Nutritional Guidance: Choose balanced meals with whole foods and limit refined carbs to support insulin sensitivity and weight control..
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Lifestyle Support: Incorporating stress management strategies and exercise routines tailored to your energy levels can help boost mood, increase energy, and support overall wellness.
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Monitoring & Adjusting: Since PCOS is an ongoing condition, consistent check-ins allow care to evolve alongside your needs—ensuring your treatment remains effective over time.
Simple Lifestyle Tips to Support Your PCOS
Here are some tips to support your health from Dr. Leveno:
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Prioritize Movement: Even gentle exercises like walking, yoga, or swimming can improve insulin sensitivity, reduce stress, and lift your mood.
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Focus on Whole Foods: Emphasize vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains. Foods rich in fiber help balance blood sugar and support weight management.
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Stay Hydrated: Cooler months can make you forget to drink enough water, but hydration is key for hormone balance and energy.
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Get Outside When You Can: Sunlight helps regulate your body’s internal clock and supports vitamin D production, which is important for hormone health.
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Manage Stress: Try meditation, deep breathing exercises, or journaling to keep stress hormones in check.
When to Seek Medical Support
If you're struggling with fatigue, weight changes, irregular cycles, or mood swings, don’t wait. PCOS symptoms are manageable with the right support.
Dr. Leveno provides expert, compassionate care to help you understand your body and create a treatment plan that fits your life—so you can feel your best all year long.
Take Control of Your PCOS This Fall
As the seasons shift, don’t let PCOS symptoms take the lead. Fall is the perfect time to check in on your health, reset your goals, and take steps toward better balance.
If you’re dealing with fatigue, mood swings, or weight changes, Dr. Joseph Leveno at Medical City Plano can help. With expert guidance and personalized care, you can take control of your symptoms and feel your best—this season and beyond.