How Dr. Vinu Jyothi and PCOS Diva Empower Women to Thrive With PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects close to 10% of women of childbearing age and is a major cause of infertility. Dr. Vinu Jyothi, MD, MPH, knows this struggle firsthand, having dealt with irregular periods and hormonal imbalances since her teens. She decided to turn her experience with PCOS into something meaningful by empowering other women to become PCOS Divas.

PCOS is often managed by the use of birth control pills such as clomifene, alongside recommendations for diet and lifestyle changes. However, many women feel lost when it comes to making those changes, not knowing where to start. As a result, countless women continue to suffer in silence when conventional treatments fail to improve their quality of life.

Healthnews interviewed Dr. Vinu Jyothi, the current director of PCOS Diva, which “offers a variety of programs to help women heal and feel better, no matter where they are in their PCOS journey.” In the interview, she discussed her own experience with PCOS, why conventional treatments often fall short, and how she’s helping women take a more natural, holistic approach to managing their condition and thriving.

Q: To get us started, can you briefly share how your journey with PCOS began?

A: My journey with PCOS began in my teens, marked by irregular periods, hormonal imbalances, and frustrating skin issues. At the time, I felt lost and alone, unable to understand what was happening to my body. Seeking medical help, I found that the treatment was often focused on managing symptoms rather than addressing the root cause.

Feeling frustrated and determined, I began researching PCOS and discovered that many women were facing similar challenges. Inspired by my own experience along with my expertise in medicine and public health, I wanted to empower women with PCOS. I joined PCOS Diva, a leading organization in the field following in the footsteps of Amy Medling. I feel privileged to drive PCOS Diva’s efforts to offer holistic approaches, community support, and evidence-based information to women living with PCOS.

Q: Your journey with PCOS wasn’t all rosy at the beginning. What aspects of conventional PCOS treatments frustrated you and led you to seek alternative approaches?

A: When I was first diagnosed with PCOS, I felt overwhelmed and lost. Conventional therapy often felt like a one-size-fits-all approach, focusing on symptom management rather than addressing the root causes. I was prescribed oral contraceptive pills just like so many other women with a new diagnosis of PCOS that only provided temporary relief.

Frustrated by the lack of individual care and a holistic approach, I began exploring alternative strategies like dietary changes, exercise, and stress management to take control of my health and discover a sustainable approach that would improve my overall well-being.

Q: Along the journey, you found out that you had aced the PCOS game and become a Diva. Can you introduce PCOS Diva and explain what inspired you to create this movement?

A: Imagine a world where women with PCOS feel confident, empowered, and supported, like a Diva. That’s the vision behind PCOS Diva. Amy, a PCOS warrior herself, founded PCOS Diva after realizing the need for a supportive community for women with this condition. Personally, as a woman with PCOS since my teenage years, I too realized that there was a need for a supportive community where women could share experiences, learn from each other, and find encouragement to live a Diva lifestyle. I wanted to provide a platform for women to feel empowered, confident, and hopeful. Following her, I joined the efforts to support this vision.

My team at PCOS Diva provides scientific insights into lifestyle changes, nutrition, and holistic strategies for managing the condition. Serving PCOS Diva has been incredibly rewarding. It has allowed me to connect with inspiring women from around the globe and make a positive impact on their lives.

Now, PCOS Diva is a movement driven by women who understand the challenges of living with PCOS and are committed to helping others overcome them. We believe that PCOS doesn’t define you; it’s simply a part of your journey. By embracing a positive mindset and making informed choices, women with PCOS don’t just survive but successfully thrive.

Q: Proper and adequate nutrition seems to be at the core of what you advocate for at PCOS Diva. Could you tell us about the PCOS Diva nutrition plan? What are its key principles?

A: The PCOS Diva nutrition plan is based on the principles of whole, unprocessed foods, balanced meals, and mindful eating. We focus on nutrient-dense foods that support hormonal balance, reduce inflammation, and improve insulin sensitivity. In fact, we developed meal plans suited for each season as well: PCOS Diva Spring Meal Plan, Summer Meal Plan, Fall Meal Plan, and Winter Meal Plans.

Some of the key principles of our nutrition plans include:

• Reducing refined carbohydrates and sugars: These can contribute to insulin resistance, a common issue in PCOS.
• Increasing fiber intake: Fiber helps regulate blood sugar levels and promotes digestive health.
• Prioritizing healthy fats: Healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, and seeds, can support hormonal balance and reduce inflammation.
• Eating regular meals and snacks: This helps stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent overeating.
• Hydrating adequately: Staying hydrated is essential for overall health and can help manage PCOS symptoms.

Q: In your opinion, can all women with PCOS benefit from nutrition and supplements? Is this a substitute for conventional medicine or is it a complementary approach?

A: I believe that nutrition and supplements can be beneficial for many women with PCOS. By addressing underlying nutritional deficiencies and supporting hormonal balance, a well-balanced diet and targeted supplements can help improve symptoms and the overall quality of life. However, for some women, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution, so a combination of medical treatments and lifestyle modifications is essential to manage their condition effectively.

For those women, supplements alone should not be considered a substitute for conventional medical treatment. Individual needs may vary depending on specific symptoms, underlying health conditions, and other factors. They can be used as a complementary approach to support their overall health and well-being.

Q: Regarding supplements, why are they essential, and can a well-balanced diet alone meet all nutritional needs?

A: While a well-balanced diet can be a great starting point, it may not be enough to meet all nutritional needs in women with PCOS. Factors such as food sensitivities, digestive issues, and increased nutrient requirements can make it difficult to get enough of certain nutrients through food alone. Supplements can help fill in the gaps and support specific areas, such as hormonal balance, insulin sensitivity, and overall health.

PCOS can often lead to nutrient deficiencies, such as vitamin D, iron, and magnesium. These deficiencies can contribute to a variety of health problems, including irregular periods, fatigue, and mood disorders. Supplements can help support hormonal balance, which is crucial for women with PCOS. For example, inositol, a nutrient found in certain foods, has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce androgen levels, both of which are common issues in PCOS. PCOS is often associated with chronic inflammation; supplements like omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.

Q: What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in advocating for women with PCOS?

A: One of the biggest challenges we’ve faced at PCOS Diva is the lack of understanding and awareness about PCOS. Firstly, many individuals with PCOS still mistakenly believe it’s solely a body weight management issue. While body weight can be a factor, it’s crucial to recognize that PCOS is a complex hormonal disorder with a variety of symptoms.

Secondly, there’s a persistent misconception that PCOS is a minor inconvenience. It’s important to emphasize that PCOS can have significant health implications. Additionally, there’s a misconception that women with PCOS cannot conceive. While there may be challenges, many women with PCOS, including myself, have gone on to have healthy pregnancies and beautiful babies. Finally, there’s a need for more research to address the diverse experiences of women with PCOS, including women of color and those with comorbidities.

Q: What are your goals for PCOS Diva in terms of advocacy and raising awareness about PCOS?

A: Our primary goal for PCOS Diva is to become a leading voice in advocating for women with PCOS. We aim to raise awareness about the condition, challenge stigma, and drive research for better treatments and support. We want to create a world where women with PCOS feel empowered, understood, and supported in every aspect of their lives.

Q: What are your thoughts on the future of PCOS treatment and research?

A: I am optimistic about the future of PCOS treatment and research. With advancements in technology and increased awareness, I believe we will see significant progress in understanding the underlying causes of PCOS and developing more effective treatment protocols.

As we learn more about the genetic and hormonal factors that contribute to PCOS, we can develop more tailored treatment approaches for individual patients. Researchers are continually working to develop more effective and targeted medications that address the underlying causes of PCOS. Evidence-based research is highlighting the importance of lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, in managing PCOS symptoms. Emerging technologies, like gene editing and stem cell therapy, may offer promising new avenues for treating PCOS.

Overall, I’m excited about the potential for improved treatment options and a better quality of life for women with PCOS.

Q: Reflecting back on your journey, what is the one thing you wish you knew when you first had your diagnosis that would have potentially made the journey much easier?

A: If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to be patient and kind to myself. The journey to healing PCOS can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that progress takes time. Don’t get discouraged by setbacks, and celebrate small victories along the way.

Additionally, I would emphasize the importance of seeking support from others with PCOS. Connecting with women who understand what you’re going through can provide invaluable support and encouragement. Finally, I would remind myself to focus on self-care. Prioritizing activities that promote your physical and mental well-being, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, and healthy eating, can make a significant difference in your journey.

My parting message to your readers is: remember, you’re not alone in this journey. There are countless women who understand what you’re going through. Seek support, educate yourself, and prioritize self-care. With the right tools and support, you can thrive with PCOS.