Dealing with PCOS can sometimes feel overwhelming, whether it's fertility worries, stubborn skin issues, weight challenges, or unpredictable mood swings. But here's the thing: you're tougher than you think, and with the right tools and self-care, you can absolutely take control and live well with PCOS. So let's explore some practical, empowering strategies to help you manage your symptoms and remind yourself that you've got this every step of the way!
But first, what is PCOS?
PCOS is a common hormonal disorder affecting people with ovaries, characterized by irregular periods, excess androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries.
While everyone's individual experience with PCOS is unique, the condition can come with a wide range of physical and emotional symptoms. On the physical side, many women deal with irregular periods, unexpected weight gain (especially around the belly), unwanted hair growth on the face or body, acne, and thinning hair on the scalp. Some might also feel tired more often or notice dark patches on their skin.
Emotionally, it can take a toll too — causing mood swings, anxiety, or even feelings of depression. The frustration of dealing with symptoms, like acne or infertility, can affect self-esteem and body image, making it even harder to cope at times.
Self-care tips for managing PCOS
Living with PCOS can definitely be tough, but the good news is, while you can’t change the fact that you have it, you can control how you handle it.
Think of food as medicine
When it comes to managing PCOS, what you eat can make a big difference. Rather than stressing over strict diets, focus on fueling your body with foods that make you feel your best. A lot of women with PCOS find that a low-glycemic, whole-food approach works well for them. And don’t worry — you don’t have to give up your favorite treats completely! It’s all about balance and finding what works for you.
Try adding more lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber-packed veggies into your meals. These can help keep your blood sugar stable, which is really important for managing symptoms. Think colorful salads, hearty soups, or veggie-packed stir-fries. And don’t underestimate the power of herbs and spices — they’re not just tasty, but can also help reduce inflammation.
Don’t forget to stay hydrated, too! Keeping a water bottle nearby (maybe with some cucumber, mint, or berries for a little flavor) is an easy way to support your body. Every sip is a little act of self-care!
Find joy in movement
Exercise can be a game-changer for managing PCOS, but it doesn’t have to mean hardcore gym workouts. What’s most important is finding activities you actually enjoy. Whether it’s dancing around your living room, going for a relaxed bike ride, or doing some gentle yoga, the goal is to move your body in ways that feel fun and doable for you.
Staying active regularly can help with insulin sensitivity, lower stress, and lift your mood — all really helpful for managing PCOS. If you’re just starting out, no worries — begin small. Even a 10-minute walk after dinner or a few morning stretches can make a difference. The key is listening to your body, celebrating little wins, and remembering that staying consistent matters more than going hard.
Embrace your natural beauty
PCOS can sometimes mess with our skin and hair, causing things like acne or extra hair growth. While it can definitely be frustrating, there are gentle, low-stress ways to take care of your skin and hair without resorting to harsh treatments.
When it comes to skincare, try to keep it simple and consistent. Cleanse gently, moisturize daily, and always use sunscreen. Natural ingredients like tea tree oil or green tea can help calm acne-prone skin. For hair care, be kind to your strands — use sulfate-free shampoos, deep condition regularly, and try protective hairstyles if you’re dealing with thinning hair.
And remember, your appearance doesn’t define your worth. These self-care habits are all about feeling good and comfortable in your own skin, not chasing some impossible beauty standard.
Nurture your mental health
With PCOS, taking care of your mental health is just as important as managing physical symptoms. Try building a self-care toolkit for those rough days — it could include things like journaling, meditation apps, your favorite playlists, or a list of affirmations that really speak to you.
Also, don’t overlook the power of connecting with others. Talking to other women with PCOS can be super comforting. You could join online support groups, attend local meetups, or even start a PCOS book club. Sharing stories and advice reminds you that you’re not in this alone.
And if things feel too heavy, it’s totally okay to reach out for professional help. Therapy can give you great tools to manage stress, anxiety, or depression that can come with PCOS. Taking care of your emotional well-being is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Work with your body, not against it
Balancing hormones is a big part of managing PCOS. While some people may need medication, there are natural ways to help support hormone balance too. Simple things like sticking to a regular sleep schedule, managing stress, and avoiding products with endocrine disruptors can make a difference.
You might also want to try adding adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha or holy basil to your routine. You can take them as teas or supplements, and they may help your body handle stress better. Just make sure to check in with your doctor before starting any new supplements.
Another option some women explore is seed cycling, which involves eating certain seeds at different times in your cycle to support hormone production. While more research is needed, many find it to be a gentle, natural way to support their hormones.
Embrace progress, not perfection
Living with PCOS is a journey with its ups and downs, and that's totally okay. Some days will feel easier than others, but what matters most is being kind to yourself through it all. Celebrate the little wins, like drinking an extra glass of water, taking a few deep breaths, or speaking up for yourself at the doctor.
Self-care isn't a luxury — it's a must. Taking time for yourself helps you handle whatever PCOS throws your way. You are strong, resilient, and capable. PCOS doesn’t define you; it's just one piece of your unique and beautiful story.
So, when things feel overwhelming, take a deep breath and remind yourself: "I've got this." Because you do. Every single time.
Kristyn Hodgdon is the Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer at Rescripted.