Wakad, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune, care@sunmedhospital.com
PCOS Symptoms, Treatment, Diagnosis
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is caused by hormonal disorder that affects many females during their reproductive years. People with PCOS may experience irregular menstrual cycles, including infrequent or prolonged periods. Additionally, they might have elevated levels of androgens.
In PCOS, the ovaries contain numerous small, fluid-filled sacs known as cysts. These cysts are underdeveloped follicles that are unable to release eggs regularly. As a result, ovulation is disrupted.
The exact cause of PCOS is still not fully understood, but early detection and management, including lifestyle changes like weight loss, can help reduce the risk of severe long-term health problems, such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
The symptoms of PCOS can vary widely from person to person, but here are the most common ones:
Irregular or Absent Periods: Many women with PCOS experience periods that are infrequent, absent, or prolonged. This occurs because ovulation does not happen regularly. As a result, the menstrual cycle can be unpredictable, leading to missed or irregular periods.
Excessive Hair Growth (Hirsutism): High levels of androgens can cause increased hair growth on the face, chest, back, or abdomen. This condition, known as hirsutism, can be distressing and may lead to self-esteem issues. It is one of the most noticeable symptoms of PCOS.
Acne and Oily Skin: PCOS can cause an overproduction of oils in the skin, leading to acne. Acne may appear on the face, back, or shoulders and can be persistent, often worsening in adulthood. It is typically associated with the higher levels of androgens present in PCOS.
Thinning Hair or Hair Loss: People with PCOS experience thinning hair on the scalp, a condition similar to baldness. This is caused by elevated androgen levels, which can shorten the hair growth cycle and lead to increased hair shedding.
Weight Gain or Difficulty Losing Weight: PCOS is often associated with insulin resistance, which can cause weight gain, especially around the abdomen. Many people with PCOS find it difficult to lose weight, even with regular exercise and a healthy diet, due to metabolic changes.
Darkening of the Skin: Areas of the skin, notably around the neck, armpits, and groin, may discolour or form thick patches. This condition, called acanthosis nigricans, is often linked to insulin resistance and can be an early indicator of PCOS.
Difficulty Getting Pregnant: Since PCOS disrupts normal ovulation, it can make it harder for individuals to conceive. Irregular ovulation or failure to ovulate means that eggs are not released regularly, which affects fertility.
The exact cause of PCOS remains unclear; some common factors that may contribute to its development include:
Genetics: PCOS tends to run in families, so a genetic predisposition may play a role.
Hormonal imbalances: Increased androgen levels and insulin resistance can compromise the ovaries natural function.
Inflammation: Increased inflammation in the body is associated with greater amounts of androgens, which may lead to symptoms such as acne and excessive hair growth.
If left untreated, PCOS can lead to different health problems, including:
Infertility: Due to irregular ovulation or lack of ovulation.
Type 2 diabetes: Insulin resistance can increase the risk of developing diabetes.
Heart disease: Higher cholesterol levels and inflammation can increase the risk of heart conditions.
Endometrial cancer: Irregular periods can lead to the thickening of the uterine lining, which may increase the risk of cancer.
Sleep apnea: Women with PCOS are more likely to experience sleep apnea, a condition where breathing stops and starts during sleep.
To diagnose PCOS, a doctor will usually conduct a thorough medical history, physical examination, and a few tests:
Blood tests: To check hormone levels (including androgens) and screen for conditions like diabetes.
Ultrasound: To examine the ovaries for cysts and check the thickness of the uterine lining.
Physical exam: To look for physical signs of excess androgens, such as acne or hair growth.
The primary goal of PCOS treatment is to manage symptoms and prevent problems. The treatment plan will depend on each women needs and goals, such as regulating menstrual cycles, managing fertility, or addressing cosmetic concerns.
Weight Management: Maintaining a weight can help balance hormones and regulate periods. Losing even a small amount of weight can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce PCOS symptoms.
Exercise: Regular exercises can improve insulin resistance, aid in weight loss, and help manage symptoms like fatigue.
Birth Control Pills: These can help to regulate menstrual cycles, lower testosterone levels, and alleviate symptoms such as acne and excessive hair growth.
Metformin: It's a medication used to treat insulin resistance, metformin can help improve ovulation and lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Clomiphene (Clomid): This medication is often prescribed to help women with PCOS ovulate and improve fertility.
Anti-androgens: Medications like spironolactone can block the effects of excess androgens, reducing symptoms like hirsutism and acne.
Ovarian Drilling: In circumstances when drugs fail, ovarian drilling, a surgical technique, can help restore ovulation. This includes creating microscopic holes in the ovaries using a laser or heat, which may lower testosterone levels and increase fertility.
For women who are trying to conceive, fertility treatments may include:
In vitro fertilization (IVF): This assisted reproductive technology may be recommended if other treatments do not work.
Hormonal therapy: Hormones like progesterone may be used to stimulate ovulation in some cases.
For individuals with excessive hair growth or acne, dermatological treatments may be recommended, including:
Laser hair removal: It's a permanent solution for unwanted facial or body hair.
Topical treatments: Creams or gels to manage acne and reduce oil production.
Currently, there is no way to prevent PCOS, but managing risk factors can help minimize the impact of the condition:
Healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet can help control weight and reduce insulin resistance.
Exercise: Regular physical activity can prevent complications such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
Regular monitoring: Regular visits to a healthcare provider to monitor hormone levels and prevent long-term complications can be beneficial.
The best way to manage PCOS is through a combination of medications (like birth control or metformin), lifestyle changes (such as a balanced diet and regular exercise), and stress management. Consulting with a healthcare provider to create a personalized treatment plan is key.
To support someone with PCOS, encourage them to maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress reduction techniques. It's also helpful to assist in seeking medical treatment and ensuring they stay consistent with their healthcare plan.
Yes, many people with PCOS live normal, healthy lives. With proper management, including medication, lifestyle adjustments, and regular monitoring, symptoms can be controlled, and individuals can maintain good health and fertility.
A healthy lifestyle that includes a nutritious diet (low in refined sugars, high in fiber), regular physical activity (at least 30 minutes most days), and stress management ( like yoga or mindfulness) is the best approach for managing PCOS and improving overall well-being.
The best specialist for managing PCOS is typically an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN), particularly one with expertise in reproductive endocrinology or fertility. If you are struggling with fertility or hormonal imbalances, a reproductive endocrinologist may be the most suitable specialist. In addition, an endocrinologist can help manage the hormonal aspects of PCOS, especially if you have insulin resistance or diabetes. A dermatologist may also be involved in treatment for specific symptoms like acne or excessive hair growth.
The best doctor to treat PCOS is typically an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) with experience in reproductive endocrinology or fertility, as they specialize in hormonal disorders. If you're dealing with insulin resistance or metabolic issues, an endocrinologist can also be helpful.
If you're looking for expert PCOS treatment in Pimpri Chinchwad, consult with the specialists at SunMed Hospital for comprehensive diagnosis and treatment personalized to your needs.
