PCOS - Can Period Underwear Help?

When we at hustl. were first talking about the idea of absorbent underwear for sports, a GP friend of ours asked if they would be useful or appropriate for someone suffering from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (or PCOS). It led us down a rabbit hole, gave us a push to do lots of insightful research, and ultimately showed us the importance of exercise and sport when dealing with the symptoms and effects of this complex condition.

 

What is PCOS?

 

PCOS is where the ovaries contain several harmless follicles – small, underdeveloped sacs in which eggs develop. In PCOS, these sacs are unable to release the egg, which means that ovulation can’t take place. It’s quite a common condition, with an estimated 1 in 10 women suffering. The exact cause is unknown, but it often runs in families and is thought to be related to a hormonal imbalance, where excess insulin and reduced sensitivity results in higher levels of other hormones, such as testosterone.

 

Symptoms may not present at all, but when they do they can be wide ranging, including irregular periods, weight gain, acne, or increased hair on the body and face. There is also an increased risk of weight gain and eve developing long term conditions such as Type II Diabetes, so it’s important to do what you can to mitigate that risk.

 

So, what can you do?

 

There is no cure for PCOS, but you can help to manage symptoms and support your body through it. Physical activity and sport can be crucial in managing symptoms and reducing the risk of developing long term conditions, and here’s why;

Critically, physical activity helps to reduce insulin resistance, which means that your body will have less-elevated levels of insulin and therefore androgen levels (like testosterone). Weight reduction is also a key benefit, as insulin resistance and diabetes risks are elevated in females who are classified as obese. Visceral fat is the key driver of insulin resistance, and physical activity, paired with a healthy diet is the absolute best way to reduce this.

The rebalanced hormone levels that you can experience by partaking in physical activity can help to regulate your cycle, so you feel more in control. Finally, and often overlooked, the mental health and wellbeing benefits of taking part in sport are hugely beneficial to those suffering with PCOS. It’s a tough condition to live with, so be kind to yourself and give your body all of the endorphins it can get.

Exercising when you suffer from PCOS isn’t about pushing your body to the absolute limit. It’s about working with your body and supporting your health in a way that feels sustainable. Whether it’s a quick walk, a gym session, or simply dancing in the kitchen to the morning radio, every bit of movement counts. Over time, those small efforts can add up to feeling stronger, more balanced, and more in control of your PCOS journey.

 

hustl. with us.

 

Our reason for existing has always been to support the performers, whether that’s on the pitch, the stage, or running to the office. But it’s not always about scoring the winning goal or landing that next big deal - sometimes it’s just about working with your own body to get yourself through the day. One thing remains true - NOTHING is stopping you from being the best version of you, other than yourself. So go get it.