PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome): Symptoms, and Treatment

What is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal condition experienced between the ages of 15 to 40. This condition which has become very common is that 24% of women around the world are experiencing this syndrome. PCOS is characterized by the growth of small cysts all over the ovaries that cause a hormonal imbalance. 

Most Common Symptoms of PCOS

While the ratio of this condition is too common, women don’t identify or realize it until diagnosed. The most common symptoms of PCOS are:

• Irregular menstrual cycle or no periods at all
• Acne
• Oily skin
• Facial hair growth
• Excessive weight gain or obesity
• Hair loss or baldness
• Stress, anxiety or depression
• Reduced fertility or infertility
• Type 2 Diabetes
• Sleep deprivation

However, a woman who has PCOS doesn’t need to have all these symptoms. Sometimes they can just have irregular periods and not others, which cannot be concluded without any professional help. 

Any identifiable symptoms from the given list need to be consulted by a professional gynaecologist immediately. 

What causes PCOS?

The exact cause of PCOS is still unknown, but they have discovered different aetiologies like;

• Genetics or family history: There is a 50% chance of getting diagnosed with PCOS if any family member is already facing it. Although no gene has been identified as the vital reason, researchers suggest that the genetic makeup for PCOS might be more complex and consist of multiple genes.
• Insulin resistance: Insulin balances glucose and sugar levels in the blood, but if someone is insulin resistant, the body refuses to use the insulin available to maintain the sugar levels, leading to hyperandrogenism testosterone in ovaries. 
• Weight gain: Insulin resistance can be caused by genetic factors or lifestyle factors such as being overweight or obese. 
• Polycystic Ovaries: Sometimes, ovaries turn bigger than usual. Many follicles containing immature eggs may develop around the edge of the ovary, leading to functional abnormalities of the ovaries.

At all stages of PCOS, if not maintained or diagnosed effectively, there are high possibilities of heart diseases including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, strokes, and type 2 diabetes. If treated properly, estrogen and testosterone hormones come down during menopause, not leading to other problems. 

Treatment and Management of PCOS

It is very important to identify your symptoms and consult healthcare professionals. There is no complete cure discovered for treating PCOS but can eventually be managed with effective medication and a healthy lifestyle. 

• Healthy Living: Maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, managing weight effectively, and minimizing smoking and alcohol consumption are efficient for lifestyle management.
• Medical Intervention: In certain cases, healthcare providers may suggest medication to regulate the body’s menstrual cycle or alleviate insulin resistance.
• Emotional Well-being: PCOS can contribute to stress, anxiety, or depression, necessitating proper attention. Counselling stands out as a highly effective method for promoting emotional health.

How is PCOS diagnosed?

Firstly, our provided medical healthcare provider will ask for the medical history and symptoms, followed by the physical examination. This procedure includes a pelvic exam to check the health of reproductive organs.

Sometimes, the root cause of PCOS might be different which may include tests like;

• Ultrasound: This test uses sound waves and computer technology to generate visual representations of blood vessels, tissues, and organs. Its primary purpose is to examine the size of the ovaries and detect any cysts present. Additionally, this diagnostic tool assesses the thickness of the uterine lining (endometrium).
• Blood tests: conducted to analyze hormone levels, focusing on androgens, among others. Your healthcare provider may also assess your blood glucose levels and examine your cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

In a few cases, the symptoms are very mild or vague, making it hard to identify the problem. Lotus Hospitals is patient-centric and has the best team of doctors who diagnose, counsel and guide. Book your appointment now.