The PCOS symptoms and treatment

PCOS is gaining widespread attention nowadays. It is a complex hormonal condition ascribed to an imbalance of reproductive hormones in women. The main characteristic includes an irregular, infrequent or prolonged menstrual period.

Almost 27% of menstruating women get affected by PCOS amongst which, almost 70% remains undiagnosed owing to lack of awareness.

Women, having PCOS, have a higher than normal amount of male hormone -androgen. This imbalance creates troubles. In a healthy ovulation cycle, ovaries produce and release an egg each month, while in PCOS, this ovulation cycle gets affected. The ovary develops numerous cyst (fluid-filled sacs) and fails to produce an egg as it should be. Polycystic word came from there only, it means multiple cysts.

CAUSES:

It is still a subject of research as the exact cause is unknown. It can be attributed to a higher level of androgen (male hormone) reasons being:

Genes or hereditary
Inflammation
Obesity causing insulin resistance

SYMPTOMS:

Irregular periods or amenorrhea (absence of a period)
Heavy bleeding during periods
Excessive hair growth on face or body
Male pattern baldness
Weight gain
Darkening of skin
Headache
Mood swings

COMPLECTIONS:

Infertility
Obesity
Metabolic syndromes such as high blood pressure or high blood sugar
Sleep apnea
Endometrial cancer
Depression and anxiety
Pregnancy complications
Miscarriage
Premature delivery
High blood pressure (preeclampsia)
Gestational diabetes

SIGNS ON EXAMINATION:

-Medical history – irregular menstrual cycle

-Blood report – high androgen level

-Pelvic or P/V examination – cysts in the ovary

-Ultrasound examination – cysts in the ovary

TREATMENT:

Hormonal therapy (Birth control pills)
Infertility medications
Insulin sensitizing medications
Anti-androgen medicines
Psychological counselling
Lifestyle changes
Weight loss
Diet, low carbohydrate diet including fruits, vegetables and whole grains
Exercise

When to seek professional help:

On missing period
On having signs and symptoms of PCOS
Trying to get pregnant for months without success
On having symptoms of diabetes
On having symptoms of high androgen i.e. hirsutism, acne or male pattern baldness

Women, having a mother, aunt or sister with PCOS are 50% more inclined to develop PCOS. Awareness and open discussion with your family, friend or physician can be of paramount aid. This syndrome can be a nightmare, but it can be dealt with adequate consideration. Be careful and don’t shy away from seeking assistance. Always remember, ‘A healthy outside starts from the healthy inside.’

Author : Ms. Purva Kumbhani, Gujarat