PCOS and Chronic Fatigue: Tips for Women with PCOS

March 24, 2024

Have you been diagnosed with PCOS but don’t understand why you’re experiencing constant fatigue? You might be surprised to discover the two go hand in hand. In fact, chronic fatigue is one of the leading symptoms of PCOS.

Affecting 1 in 10 women in the UK and an estimated 8-13% of childbearing women, PCOS is a chronic hormonal condition and metabolic disorder. While it isn’t a direct cause of fatigue, women with PCOS are more likely to experience and report daytime tiredness than those without the condition.

That’s because many of PCOS’s symptoms, like vitamin deficiencies, heavy periods and depression, can leave you feeling sluggish and lethargic.

But how can you tell the difference between simply feeling burnt out and PCOS-related fatigue? After all, people are feeling more exhausted than ever with fatigue becoming increasingly common thanks to our busy lifestyles.

To find out more about the world of PCOS and tiredness, keep reading. In the article below, we'll cover everything from the tell-tale signs of fatigue caused by PCOS, what you should keep an eye out for, to how certain supplements and making small changes in your lifestyle might just be the ticket to feeling more like yourself again.

Can PCOS cause fatigue?

Fatigue is one of the core symptoms linked to PCOS. A common symptom reported among women, PCOS and chronic fatigue tend to come as a package. But why do you feel so tired with PCOS?

The link between PCOS and tiredness is largely down to hormone imbalances. Studies have also discovered that poor sleep and increased sleepiness during the day, occur more frequently in women with PCOS compared to those without the condition.

PCOS and chronic fatigue can also result from an underactive thyroid or low vitamin B12 or vitamin D levels. It can also exhibit symptoms similar to those caused by endometriosis fatigue. This highlights the importance of supplementing your vitamin intake if you have PCOS, ensuring that your body is getting all of the nutrients it needs that a diet can't necessarily provide on its own.

Person holding Novomins Iron Gummies. The image advised where Novomins has been published

How do you know if it’s PCOS causing fatigue?

PCOS and fatigue after eating

If you feel tired after eating, it’s likely thanks to your PCOS. Those with PCOS tend to be insulin resistant, meaning their bodies can’t use insulin effectively.

Not only does this increase the risk for type 2 diabetes, but it also means your body doesn’t store and process glucose properly. So, instead of using that energy right away, your body decides to stash it as fat. This can lead you to pack some extra pounds on and feel pretty sluggish after eating.

PCOS and depression

PCOS can cause many distressing symptoms like fertility issues, acne, weight gain and excessive hair growth. As a result, many women with PCOS also experience depression and anxiety, with one study reporting that 61.8% of participants with PCOS also had depression.

And what’s a major symptom of depression? You’ve guessed it — fatigue. For many women, PCOS leaves them feeling tired and depressed.

On top of everything else, depression impacts how well you sleep. Around three-quarters of depressed individuals have insomnia symptoms, leading to higher levels of fatigue during the day.

PCOS medications

PCOS medications, like metformin, can lower vitamin B12 levels, leading to feeling exhausted. Contraceptive pills, which are often used to treat PCOS symptoms, can also cause a deficiency of vitamins B6, B12 and folate, which can result in constant tiredness.

Heavy periods

Anaemia is another side effect of PCOS, which can result in fatigue. Women with PCOS often experience longer and heavier menstrual cycles than usual, caused by low progesterone levels. This is characterised by severe bleeding that lasts seven days or more.

As a result, iron levels can decrease and develop into anaemia, leaving you feeling lethargic and short of breath. To find out more, take a look at our guide that covers extreme fatigue and periods.

What vitamins are good for the treatment of PCOS fatigue?

	Key features
Inositol+ gummies	Targeting PCO-related symptoms, including fatigue, these gummies are rich in vitamin D, B12 and iron that women with PCOS are commonly deficient in.
ACV	Beneficial for weight loss and blood sugar balance, combating PCOS insulin resistance and fatigue.
Women’s health supplements	Catering to various female health needs, these supplements are rich in vitamins and minerals, like folic acid, which support fertility and improve glucose metabolism, releasing energy and reducing fatigue.
Energy supplements	Designed to boost energy levels, these supplements typically contain B vitamins, magnesium, vitamin C and biotin.

Inositol+ gummies

Inositol+ gummies have stepped onto the scene as a delightful way to manage PCOS and chronic fatigue. They're specially designed with women in mind, tackling the disorder head-on while catering to their specific needs.

These gummies are specially formulated with vitamins and nutrients that those with PCOS may lack, like Myo-inositol, D-chiro inositol, chromium, inulin, vitamin D, iron, and vitamin B12. Therefore, taking Inositol+ gummies helps improve PCOS fatigue symptoms, regulate cycles, fight inflammation, promote hormone balance and reduce insulin resistance.

A vitamin boost can do wonders beyond one's physical health - it's like hitting the refresh button on your mood and brain power. You'll find yourself slipping into a deep sleep that leaves you rejuvenated. Additionally, ingredients like Inositol have been shown to improve ovarian function and hormone balance.

On the lookout for an effective, clean and delicious Inositol+ gummy? We've got you covered with new Novomins PCOS Gummies, coming soon!

Apple cider vinegar (ACV)

Apple cider vinegar is a kitchen cupboard staple that’s packed full of various health benefits. This includes lowering blood sugar and insulin levels — perfect for those with PCOS!

When taken before a meal that’s high in carbohydrates, apple cider vinegar can prevent blood sugar spikes by slowing the rate at which the stomach empties. This helps to keep your sugar levels in check, ensuring improved energy levels all day long.

It also contains potassium and enzymes that act as natural electrolytes, relieving PCOS and adrenal fatigue.

Boosting energy levels, you can drink apple cider vinegar straight or get your daily dose via a supplement capsule or gummy. For those who don’t like the taste, we recommend taking 2 delicious Novomins Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies daily for the best results.

Interested in finding out more about ACV? Take a look at our guide that discusses the many benefits that taking ACV can have.

Women’s health supplements

Women’s health needs are complex and often misunderstood. Supplements that specifically cater to women are designed to support women’s health and meet their body's various needs, including supporting fertility, PMS, menopause, hormones and many other health concerns.

Because a woman's nutrient needs and menstrual cycle change throughout her life, it's important to take women's supplements that support your body's needs in its current phase.

To improve PCOS fatigue symptoms, look for health supplements containing vitamins D, C, B12, magnesium, potassium and calcium, which many women with PCOS are deficient in.

Also, make sure you find a supplement with folic acid. Folic acid is an unsung hero when it comes to helping you feel better and tackling infertility by nurturing the growth of healthy eggs.

So, for women battling PCOS, it's all about sparking that energy and waving goodbye to fatigue.

Energy supplements

Taking supplements specifically designed to boost energy is another alternative to banish PCOS-related fatigue.

If you look on the back of a supplement bottle, more times than not you'll notice B vitamins and magnesium listed. This is because they play a key role in converting food into energy. Vitamin C and biotin are also common, helping to keep you awake at your desk by contributing to the body's normal energy-producing metabolism.

Other ways to manage PCOS fatigue

Lifestyle changes

Sometimes, making a few simple lifestyle changes and sticking to them is all it takes to noticeably improve your energy levels.

Regular outdoor exercise, managing stress levels to prevent elevated cortisol, staying hydrated and maintaining a consistent sleep routine are a few natural strategies you can adopt in your daily life to effectively manage fatigue.

You can also practise relaxation techniques before going to sleep, like meditation. Try maintaining a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day to establish a pattern. This will signal to your body when it’s time to go to sleep.

You should also avoid blue lights from your phone, tablet or laptop several hours before you go to sleep.

Dietary changes for PCOS adrenal fatigue

Food is incredibly powerful and perhaps the most important medicine we have when it comes to improving our health and PCOS fatigue.

Reducing your caffeine intake helps... a lot. Additionally, the recommended PCOS adrenal fatigue diet involves consuming a balance of fibre, whole grains and fatty acids. Not only do these nutrients keep you at a healthy weight, but they keep your blood sugar levels in check, keeping you going throughout the day.

PCOS-fighting foods include dark chocolate (yum), leafy greens, nuts, berries, eggs, avocado and salmon, among others.

Medication

While PCOS has no direct cure, there are some over-the-counter medications that can help relieve the condition and PCOS fatigue.

Antidepressants can help those who are having trouble sleeping as a result of anxiety and depression.

Inositol, a sugar made in the body, has also been proven to help PCOS fatigue symptoms. It reduces insulin resistance, decreases anxiety and reduces metabolic syndrome and the male hormone androgen, all of which contribute to reduced fatigue and improved health.

What does the research say about PCOS and fatigue?

It's well known that fatigue is a leading symptom experienced by those with PCOS.

Research backs up the link between PCOS and being tired, showing that women with PCOS experience lower-quality sleep and more sleep disturbances than those without the condition. This can be a result of low progesterone levels and the high prevalence of depression and anxiety among those with PCOS.

Research also shows that up to 35% of women with PCOS have obstructive sleep apnoea that interrupts normal breathing and, therefore, sleep.

At the same time, a 2018 study reported that those with PCOS were 50% more likely to develop a sleep disorder and were twice as likely to experience difficulties falling and staying asleep.

PCOS fatigue can also be caused by vitamin deficiencies, including vitamin B12, calcium, potassium, magnesium, folic acid and vitamin C.

Insulin resistance is another trigger for PCOS fatigue, occurring when the body can't maintain stable blood sugar levels. Glucose is the body's primary energy source, and when it can't be converted into energy, it leads to low energy levels.
Insulin resistance also increases the risk of diabetes, with fatigue being a common symptom. Research shows that more than 50% of women affected by PCOS will go on to develop type 2 diabetes.

Review from a happy customer about Novomins Vitamin B12 Gummies.

Fight PCOS fatigue with Novomins

While there's no cure for PCOS, there are things that you can do to improve your PCOS and adrenal fatigue and boost your energy.

Medications like antidepressants can help those experiencing interrupted nights due to depression and anxiety get restorative nights of sleep.

However, if you're more of a fan of natural options, there are plenty of lifestyle changes you can make that can be just as effective — from eating a balanced diet packed with PCOS-fighting foods to reducing caffeine, getting outside and exercising regularly.

Women with PCOS are also at high risk of vitamin deficiencies, particularly B vitamins and iron. That's why supplementation is crucial.

It's important to note that if you've just been diagnosed with PCOS or are experiencing fatigue that's starting to affect your everyday life, don't hesitate to reach out to your local GP and seek personalised medical advice.

Fight PCOS and fatigue with Novomins and our wide range of delicious gummies, including our high-strength Vitamin B12, Iron and women's health gummies.

Doctor-formulated using only the best, high-quality ingredients, each gummy is backed by science, thoroughly researched and tailored to meet the various specific needs of women's bodies.

Click here to browse the full Novomins range.

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