Frequent yeast infections + PCOS: Is there a connection?
“So I am not sure if this is PCOS-related, but the thing is that I have a very terrible yeast infection problem. I drink cranberry juice, change the soaps, I have been taking probiotics, but nothing seems to help. It just keeps coming back.”
This was a concern that brought my most recent client in to see me. She wasn’t aware, but recurring yeast infections are a common experience for many women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
PCOS is a hormonal condition where the female produces excess testosterone. It is believed that one in 10 women has PCOS, and symptoms can range from issues with weight, sleep disturbance, irregular menses, anxiety, depression and infertility.
Before we dive into the possible reason for frequent yeast infections, let us discuss what yeast is exactly.
Yeast, or candida, is essentially a bacteria that lives in our gut. It is necessary for adequate nutrient absorption and a healthy digestive system. In a healthy scenario, it co-exists peacefully with the other bacteria within the intestines, but when candida is out of control it weakens the immune system, damages the intestine walls and worsens the hormonal levels. For women with PCOS, this results in symptoms of recurring vaginal infections, bloating, poor mood, food allergies and headaches.
So why are women with PCOS more prone to getting yeast infections? It could be a combination of diet, medication, digestive issues, lack of sleep (yes, sleep), or even all of the above.
Insulin resistance or diet
Many women with PCOS also have insulin resistance, which means their body is producing too much insulin to regulate the amount of glucose in the bloodstream. This excess insulin and yeast overgrowth then triggers cravings for sugars and carbs, forming the perfect environment for yeast to multiply and grow.
Medications
Although medications have their benefits, they also have side effects. Medications commonly used in the treatment of PCOS, such as the pill and Metformin, can negatively affect the balance of good bacteria within the gut, allowing yeast to thrive. So when choosing to include pharmaceuticals in your process of care, it is critical to take probiotics and B vitamins.
Lack of sleep or stress
Your body as a woman with PCOS was not made for stress. You react more strongly to it and stay in a stressed out mode for longer. Lack of sleep or stress causes an increase in cortisol, which is the body’s stress hormone.
This then causes your immune system to weaken and blood sugar to rise again, making it the perfect environment for yeast overgrowth
If you are a woman with PCOS, I understand how difficult it can be to do it alone, especially when you are trying your best and not seeing results. Know that it isn’t your fault and that your body isn’t broken — it just requires more delicate handling. In my practice I help women diagnosed with PCOS to overcome and manage PCOS naturally by truly identifying and treating what is happening at the root of their issues.
Monique Allen, BSC, is a certified holistic nutritionist and PCOS educator. She runs a web-based practice through which she helps women with PCOS lose weight without dieting, attending the gym or taking pills. If you need additional resources or personal support, follow her on social media @themoniqueallen or e-mail hello@themoniqueallen.com.
