Linking PCOS and Lupus: Do they share a connection?
Living with Both PCOS and Lupus: A Complex Balance
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Lupus, two common health conditions affecting women, share some hormonal similarities that may influence their coexistence and management.
PCOS, a hormonal and metabolic disorder, is characterised by androgen excess and ovulatory dysfunction. Lupus, an autoimmune disease, is influenced by hormonal fluctuations, particularly estrogen and progesterone levels during the menstrual cycle, which can trigger or worsen lupus flares.
Managing the Double Challenge
The management of both conditions requires a coordinated approach.
- Hormonal and immune monitoring: It is crucial to understand that hormonal changes, especially estrogen fluctuations, may worsen lupus flares while managing PCOS-associated hormonal imbalances.
- Individualized treatment plans: Treatment for lupus focuses on immunosuppression and controlling inflammation, while PCOS management targets ovulatory dysfunction, androgen excess, and metabolic issues through lifestyle changes, insulin sensitizers, and sometimes hormonal contraceptives.
- Coordination of care: Rheumatologists and endocrinologists or gynecologists should collaborate to balance treatments, as some hormonal therapies used for PCOS (like oral contraceptives) might affect lupus activity.
- Symptom tracking: Monitoring menstrual cycles closely to anticipate and manage lupus flares in relation to hormonal changes is essential.
The Connection Between PCOS and Lupus
While there is no strong direct causal evidence linking PCOS and lupus, evidence suggests that low progesterone associated with PCOS can overstimulate the immune system, causing the immune system to create autoantibodies that attack healthy cells in the body. However, a 2023 study found that people with PCOS have a higher rate of systemic autoimmune disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, and undifferentiated connective tissue disease, but did not find a significant difference in rates of lupus.
Living with Both Conditions
Living with both PCOS and lupus can present challenges, but with tailored, multidisciplinary care addressing both immune and endocrine aspects, patients can optimise their outcomes. It is essential for people with both conditions to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and addressing excessive hair growth.
For those with lupus, learning the signs of an oncoming flare-up, trying stress-management techniques, limiting time in the sun, getting enough rest and sleep, and building a support network can help manage symptoms. The United Kingdom's National Health Service (NHS) suggests tips for maintaining a moderate weight, such as performing regular exercise, eating a balanced, nutritious diet, and discussing personal weight goals with a doctor or dietitian.
If you develop symptoms of PCOS or lupus, it is crucial to contact your doctor. They will run diagnostic tests and recommend an appropriate treatment plan where necessary. Remember, there is currently no cure for either PCOS or lupus, but with the right care and support, it is possible to manage these conditions effectively.
- The immune system imbalance seen in autoimmune disorders like Lupus may be influenced by hormonal changes, especially estrogen fluctuations, which can exacerbate Lupus flares while managing hormonal imbalances in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
- In managing both PCOS and Lupus, hormonal and immune monitoring is crucial to optimize treatments and prevent flare-ups.
- The treatment for Lupus focuses on immunosuppression and controlling inflammation, while PCOS management targets ovulatory dysfunction, androgen excess, and metabolic issues.
- Collaboration between rheumatologists, endocrinologists, or gynecologists is needed to balance treatments, as hormonal therapies used for PCOS may affect Lupus activity.
- affected individuals should monitor menstrual cycles closely to anticipate and manage lupus flares in relation to hormonal changes.
- Living with both PCOS and Lupus may demand a tailored, multidisciplinary care approach addressing both immune and endocrine aspects, as well as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and building a support network.
