PCOS

PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a condition in which the ovaries create an abnormal amount of androgens, male sex hormones that are normally present in tiny amounts in women. The term polycystic ovarian syndrome refers to the ovaries’ numerous small cysts (fluid-filled sacs). However, some women with this illness do not produce cysts, and some women without the disorder do.

Ovulation is the release of a mature egg from an ovary. This occurs so that it can be fertilized by male sperm. If the egg is not fertilized, it is sent out of your body during your period.

In some situations, a woman may not produce enough of the hormones required for ovulation. When ovulation does not occur, the ovaries can develop many small cysts. These cysts produce hormones known as androgens. Women with PCOS frequently have high levels of androgens. This may worsen a woman’s menstrual cycle problems. It can also cause many of the symptoms associated with PCOS.

Medication is frequently used to treat PCOS. This does not cure PCOS, but it helps to lessen symptoms and prevent some health issues.

What causes PCOS?

The specific cause of PCOS is unknown. Insulin resistance is common in PCOS women. This means that the body is unable to properly utilise insulin. Insulin levels build up in the body, potentially leading to greater androgen levels. Obesity can also increase insulin levels, worsening PCOS symptoms.

PCOS can run in families. PCOS is frequent in sisters, mothers, and daughters.

What are the risks for PCOS?

If your mother or sister has PCOS, you are more likely to have it as well. It is also more likely if you have insulin resistance or are obese.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

The symptoms of PCOS may include:

• Missed periods, irregular periods, or very light periods

• Ovaries that are large or have many cysts

• Excessive body hair, particularly on the chest, stomach, and back (hirsutism)

• Weight gain, especially around the belly

• Oily or acne-prone skin

• Male-pattern baldness or thinning hair

• Infertility

• Small pieces of excess skin on the neck or armpits (skin tags)

• Patches of dark or thick skin on the back of the neck, under the armpits, and under the breasts

   

   

How is PCOS diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask about your medical history and symptoms. You will also have a physical exam. This will almost certainly include a pelvic exam. This exam checks the condition of your reproductive organs both inside and outside of your body.

Some of the symptoms of PCOS are similar to those of other health problems. As a result, you may also have tests such as:

• Ultrasound. This test creates images of blood vessels, tissues, and organs using sound waves and a computer. This test is performed to determine the size of the ovaries and whether they have cysts. The test can also determine the thickness of the uterine lining (endometrium).

• Blood tests. These are looking for high levels of androgens and other hormones. Your blood glucose levels may also be checked by your doctor. In addition, your cholesterol and triglyceride levels may be tested.

How is PCOS treated?

A variety of factors influence PCOS treatment. These may include your age, the severity of your symptoms, and your overall health. The type of treatment may also depend on whether you want to become pregnant in the future.

If you do decide to become pregnant, your therapy may include:

• A change in diet and activities. A healthy diet and more physical activity can help you lose weight and reduce your symptoms. They can also help your body use insulin more efficiently, lower blood glucose levels, and possibly help you ovulate.
• Medications that stimulate ovulation. Medications can help the ovaries in producing eggs regularly. These medications also carry certain risks. They can enhance the likelihood of having multiple children (twins or more). They may also cause ovarian hyperstimulation. This occurs when the ovaries produce an excessive amount of hormones. It might result in symptoms including abdominal bloating and pelvic pain.

If you do not intend to become pregnant, treatment may involve the following:

• Birth control pills. These help to control menstrual cycles, lower androgen levels, and reduce acne.

• Diabetes medication. This is frequently used to treat insulin resistance in PCOS. It may also help to lower androgen levels, slow hair growth, and make you ovulate regularly.

• A change in diet and activity. A nutritious diet and more physical activity can help you lose weight and reduce your symptoms. They can also help your body use insulin more efficiently, lower blood glucose levels, and possibly help you ovulate.

• Other symptoms will be treated with medications. Some medications can help reduce hair growth or acne.

What are the complications of PCOS?

Women who have PCOS are more likely to suffer serious health problems. These include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart and blood vessel problems, and uterine cancer. Women with PCOS frequently struggle with their ability to get pregnant (fertility).

Living with PCOS

Weight gain, hair growth, and acne are some of the physical signs of PCOS that some women experience. Electrolysis and laser hair removal are two cosmetic treatments that may help you feel better about your appearance. Consult your doctor about the best ways to treat the symptoms that are bothering you.

When should I seek medical care?

Call your doctor if you have missing or irregular periods, excessive hair growth, acne, or weight gain.

Key points

• PCOS is a common hormonal problem among women of childbearing age.

• Women with PCOS may not ovulate, have a high level of androgens, and have many small cysts on their ovaries.

• PCOS can result in irregular or missed menstrual cycles, excessive hair growth, acne, infertility, and weight gain.

• Women who have PCOS are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart problems, and endometrial cancer.

• Treatment for PCOS may differ depending on whether or not a woman plans to become pregnant. Women who intend to become pregnant in the future may be prescribed different medications.

Next steps

Tips to help you get the most out of a visit to your doctor:

• Make a list of the questions you want answered before your visit.

• Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your doctor says.

• Take notes during your visit, including the names of any new medications, treatments, or tests, as well as any new instructions that your doctor provides you.

• If you have a follow-up appointment, make a note of the date, time, and reason for the visit.

• Know how to contact your doctor if you have any questions.