Dr. Ganivada Hyma has published this extensive guide on PCOS encompassing its causes, symptoms, treatments, and management.
Table of Contents
What is PCOS and its causes?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age(4-18%). It is characterized by an imbalance of hormones, leading to irregular menstrual cycles and other symptoms such as infertility, acne, excessive hair growth, and weight gain. PCOS can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life and increase the risk for certain health conditions if left untreated. It’s not only a gynecological problem but encompasses metabolic, dermatological, and psychological disorders.PCOS is characterized by hyperandrogenism, anovulation or oligo ovulation, and polycystic ovaries.
PCOS is a common cause of infertility in women with anovulatory cycles ( up to 90%)
In India, PCOS increased by 30%.
Effects of PCOS
Hyperandrogenism, ovulatory and menstrual dysfunction, obesity, infertility, psychological effects, carcinoma, metabolic syndrome.
Signs & Symptoms of PCOS
It is characterized by an imbalance of hormones, which can lead to various symptoms. Common signs and symptoms associated with PCOS include hirsutism, irregular menstrual cycles( amenorrhea or oligomenorrhea), infertility, polycystic ovaries, acne, androgenic alopecia, obesity, acne, dysfunctional uterine bleeding, and virilization.
Increases early pregnancy loss, Gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, and preterm labor during pregnancy.
- Polycystic Ovaries: 50-75% of women with PCOS symptoms have polycystic ovaries on ultrasound.
- Irregular Menstrual Cycle: women can have fewer cycles( have a long gap between menses) or absent menstrual cycles for several months. women can even present with heavy menstrual cycles and DUB.
- Infertility: up to 55-75% of women cannot get pregnant due to PCOS (female infertility factor).
- Hirsutism: excessive terminal hair growth over androgen-dependent areas like the upper lip, chin, abdomen, legs, etc
Long-term effects of PCOS
Diabetes type 2, dyslipidemia, endometrial carcinoma ( these are of definitive risk)
Possible Risk: Hypertension, cardiovascular disorder, Gestational diabetes (diabetes in pregnancy), pre-eclampsia (high bp in pregnancy), fibroid uterus
5 Treatment Options for PCOS
Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments available for PCOS that can help manage symptoms and improve fertility. This article will explore some of the natural treatment options for PCOS available today.
- Exercise: One of the best treatment options to incorporate into your daily life when suffering from PCOS is Yoga and Meditation. It not only helps you physically challenge this battle but also supports your mental strength. Yoga & Meditation experts are available to understand and design a framework that suits your lifestyle. 30-60 minutes a day is recommended. Exercise increases insulin sensitivity.
- Lifestyle Modification: Many women with PCOS gain weight. Weight reduction can help to reduce obesity(5-10% weight loss) and improve menstrual irregularity in 90% of cases, which can lead to a reduced risk of health complications. spontaneous pregnancy occurs in some women up to 30%. Weight loss should be based on a healthy diet and increased physical activity.
- Diet: high fiber, complex carbohydrates, and low saturated fats are recommended. Avoidance of fast foods and saturated fats in routine is needed.
- Treatment: Many hormone treatments are available for PCOS, which contain progesterone or estrogen and progesterone combination. These therapies might help by improving your regular periods or reducing the symptoms of PCOS. Metformin is an insulin sensitizer that helps to improve ovulation in up to 50% of cases.
Monitoring of PCOS
Yearly testing, complete history taking and examination, BP assessment, Sugars Monitoring, Lipid Profile, etc.
Impact of PCOS on Pregnancy & Fertility
An Obstetrics & Gynaecology Specialist and/or an Infertility Specialist Doctor will discuss the impact of PCOS on pregnancy and fertility, as well as the available treatments to help improve fertility outcomes in women with PCOS.
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