Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) by Dr Sachin Dalal
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age, with a prevalence rate ranging from 2.2% to 26.7% . Characterized by a variety of symptoms and associated risks, PCOS can have significant impacts on a woman’s hormonal balance, reproductive health, and overall well-being.
Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Symptoms:
The symptoms of PCOS often manifest around the onset of a woman’s first menstrual period, although they can also develop later in life. The condition is diagnosed when at least two of the following criteria are met: irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels leading to physical manifestations such as hirsutism (excessive facial and body hair), and polycystic ovaries detected via ultrasound.
Women with PCOS may experience a range of symptoms, including:
– Amenorrhea (missed periods) or oligomenorrhea (irregular periods)
– Hirsutism
– Thinning hair on the scalp
– Acne and oily skin
– Mood changes and depression
– Sleep disturbances
– Weight gain and difficulty losing weight
– Infertility or subfertility
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of PCOS remains unknown, but several factors are believed to contribute to its development:
– Genetic predisposition, as suggested by familial clustering of cases
– Insulin resistance, leading to higher insulin levels that may increase androgen production
– Low-grade inflammation, which has been linked to the production of androgens and cardiovascular risks
Complications:
If left untreated, PCOS can lead to various complications, including:
– Increased risk of endometrial cancer
– Infertility, although early treatment can improve the chances of a healthy pregnancy
– Metabolic syndrome, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases
– Potential increased risk of breast cancer
Treatment and Management:
Treatment for PCOS is tailored to the individual’s symptoms and concerns, such as managing infertility, hirsutism, acne, or obesity. Lifestyle modifications, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, are foundational to managing PCOS. Medications may include:
– Hormonal contraceptives to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels
– Anti-androgens to address hirsutism and acne
– Fertility medications to stimulate ovulation
In some cases, surgical procedures like laparoscopic ovarian drilling may be considered to restore normal ovarian function and induce ovulation.
IVF Specialist: – Dr Sachin Dalal