Project Cystem

Project Cystem is holding an online fundraiser! 100% of proceeds will go to Verity PCOS, a charity that spreads awareness about PCOS through various projects and meetings. Link is in bio!!

🌿 Wellness Wednesday: Let’s Talk PCOS 💬 🌿

Polycystic O***y Syndrome (PCOS) affects 1 in 10 people with ovaries. Still, it’s often misunderstood, underdiagnosed, and undertreated.

🩸PCOS is not just about periods. It’s a complex hormonal condition that can impact skin, weight, mood, fertility, and long-term health like diabetes or heart disease.

🌸 This week’s reminder:
PCOS is not your fault. Hormonal imbalances are medical, not moral, and you deserve compassion, support, and real answers.

🛠️ Wellness Tip:
Try to build a consistent sleep routine. Quality sleep helps support hormone balance, blood sugar regulation, and overall well-being. These are all important for managing PCOS symptoms.

💚 Let’s break the silence. Let’s build awareness. Let’s support each other.

Follow on Instagram and Facebook for real science, real stories, and real change.

FAQ Friday:
Can you have PCOS without cysts?
Yes. The name is misleading. Not everyone with PCOS has ovarian cysts. It’s diagnosed based on symptoms like irregular periods, high androgens, and ovulation issues.

Can you have PCOS if you’re not overweight?
Yes. PCOS affects people of all body types. “Lean PCOS” is less talked about but just as real.

Does PCOS go away?
No, PCOS doesn’t go away, but the symptoms can be managed with the right support, lifestyle changes, and treatment.

Image Source: GoFertility

Wellness Wednesday:
Big changes start with tiny steps.
Trying to improve your health? Don’t overwhelm yourself with huge goals.
Pick one small habit today that supports your well-being, and celebrate that win.

Ideas to try today:
Swap one sugary drink for water
Go to bed 15 minutes earlier
Take a 5-minute walk outside
Turn off screens 30 minutes before bed

Small habits add up.

Women with PCOS are 3.8 times more likely to experience depression and 5.6 times more likely to experience anxiety than women without PCOS.
(Source: Brutocao et al., Endocrine, 2018 - a meta-analysis of 57 studies)

PCOS isn’t just physical. It deeply impacts mental health, too.
Yet these symptoms often go untreated or misdiagnosed.

Let’s break the silence and bring hormonal and mental health into the same conversation.

Image Source: PCOS Nutrition Center

Wellness Tips Wednesday

PCOS-friendly Exercise Tips:

Exercise doesn’t have to mean running miles or lifting heavy weights. For PCOS, the right kind of movement matters more than pushing yourself to the limit.

Here are 3 ways to move your body that support your hormones and your mood:

Gentle Yoga or Pilates
Reduces cortisol (stress hormone), helps with bloating and improves flexibility. Bonus: It’s calming for your mind.

Walks after meals
Just 10–15 minutes can help lower blood sugar spikes, reduce insulin resistance, and give you fresh air.

Dance breaks
Put on your favorite playlist and move for fun. It boosts endorphins, which help fight anxiety and fatigue, something common with PCOS.

Image Source: American Heart Association

Tell-the-Truth Tuesday:
Myth: Everyone with PCOS has ovarian cysts.

Fact: Despite the name, not everyone with PCOS has cysts. Diagnosis is based on a combination of symptoms like irregular periods, excess androgens (like facial hair or acne), and ovulation issues, not just what an ultrasound shows.
Image Source: Bedaya Hospitals

Wellness Tips Wednesday
Nutrients That Support Hormone Balance

Balanced hormones start with what’s on your plate. Here are 4 nutrients that support hormone health in people with PCOS:

Magnesium – Found in leafy greens and nuts. Helps reduce stress and supports insulin sensitivity.
Omega-3s – Found in flaxseeds, walnuts, and salmon. Reduce inflammation linked to PCOS symptoms.
Zinc – Found in chickpeas and cashews. Supports ovulation and helps improve acne.
Vitamin D – Your body makes it through sunlight. Low levels are common in PCOS. Supplement if needed.

You don’t need to change your whole diet overnight. Start small. Add one nutrient-rich food this week and build from there.

Follow for more PCOS tips every Wednesday.

Image source: Harvard Health