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Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder common among women during their age of reproduction. It results in enlarged ovaries (the organ that produces and releases eggs) and the production of high levels of male hormones called androgen. This causes an imbalance in your reproductive hormones. People with PCOS often have irregular menstrual cycles, missed periods, and unpredictable or lack of ovulation. Lack of ovulation (anovulation) may cause small cysts to form on your ovaries (fluid-filled sacs). However, you need not have cysts in your ovaries to have PCOS. It may lead to infertility, irregular menstrual periods, excess hair growth, and other symptoms.
What can Cause PCOS?
The polycystic ovarian syndrome is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Possible causes of PCOS include an imbalance of reproductive hormones such as androgens, luteinizing hormone, and estrogen, insulin resistance, low-grade inflammation, and genetics.
Are there any Health Problems Associated with PCOS?
PCOS can put you at risk for many health conditions, such as:
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Diabetes Mellitus
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Gestational diabetes mellitus.
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Hypertension
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Cardiovascular diseases
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Sleep disorders
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Anxiety and depression
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Uterine cancer
Symptoms of PCOS
The most common symptom of PCOS is an abnormal menstruation cycle. Abnormal menstruation involves delayed periods (more than 35 days) or no periods at all for months together. Sometimes there may be heavy bleeding during periods.
Other symptoms of PCOS include:
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Acne
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Obesity
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Pelvic pain
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Excessive hair growth (facial or body hair).
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Darkening of the skin around the nape of the neck.
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Thinning of hair on the head.
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Unable to get pregnant.
How is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Diagnosed?
In most cases, your clinician can diagnose PCOS based on your clinical history and/or perform an ultrasound. You may also be asked to undergo specific blood tests like serum insulin levels (to understand the level of insulin resistance) and free androgen index (to assess the level of androgens in your body). To know more consult with the best gynaecologist in Salem.
Treatment Options for PCOS
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The best way to deal with PCOS is to opt for healthy lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight. Reducing stress levels and getting adequate sleep can also help to manage the symptoms of PCOS.
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Medications such as hormonal pills or oral contraceptive pills, insulin-sensitizing medicines (e.g., metformin), and anti-androgens can be prescribed to reduce symptoms such as irregular periods, acne, and excess hair growth. Fertility medicines such as Clomifene can help stimulate ovaries to release eggs (ovulation) if you’re facing trouble getting pregnant.
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If you have cysts in your ovaries, surgery may be necessary to remove ovarian cysts. In addition, many women also opt for cosmetic procedures to remove excess body hair and facial hair.
To get the best polycystic ovarian syndrome treatment in Salem, get a consultation at Manipal Hospitals.
FAQs
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What is the Main Cause of PCOS?
PCOS is related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Abnormal hormone levels and insulin play a role in the development of PCOS.
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Is PCOS a Serious Problem?
Yes, PCOS can be a serious health problem if it is left untreated. It can lead to an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, infertility, and other serious health conditions. It is important to speak with your doctor about your symptoms and potential treatment options.
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What increases the Risk of PCOS?
Risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing PCOS include being overweight or obese, having a family history of PCOS, having elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) in the body, having high levels of insulin in the body, having high levels of inflammation in the body, and having a history of irregular menstrual cycles.
Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Manipal Hospitals, Salem
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