What is PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, commonly known as PCOS, is a hormonal disorder affecting an estimated 1 in 10 women of reproductive age worldwide. It’s one of the most common endocrine conditions among women aged 15 to 50, often going undiagnosed due to its complex and varying symptoms. PCOS is characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, elevated levels of androgens (male hormones), and the presence of multiple small cysts in the ovaries. If not managed timely, PCOS can lead to serious health complications such as infertility, Type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
What are the Symptoms of PCOS?
Recognizing the signs of PCOS early is crucial for effective management. Symptoms may vary, but here are the most commonly observed ones:
Irregular Periods
Women with PCOS often experience fewer than nine periods a year or none at all. This irregularity results from disrupted ovulation due to hormonal imbalances.
Excess Androgen Levels
High levels of male hormones can lead to hirsutism (excessive facial and body hair), severe acne, and scalp hair thinning or male-pattern baldness.
Polycystic Ovaries
Ultrasound may reveal enlarged ovaries with multiple small follicles, which is a hallmark sign of polycystic ovary syndrome.
Weight Gain
Many women with PCOS struggle with pcos weight loss due to insulin resistance, which contributes to unexplained weight gain, particularly around the abdomen.
Acne and Oily Skin
Hormonal imbalances can increase sebum production, causing persistent acne—especially on the face, chest, and upper back.
Skin Darkening
Dark patches, especially around the neck, underarms, and groin, are signs of insulin resistance associated with PCOS.
Mood Changes and Depression
Women with PCOS often report mood swings, anxiety, and depression due to hormonal fluctuations and body image issues.
What Causes Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?
While the exact cause of PCOS is not unknown, there are several risk factors which can contribute to the progression which can eventually lead to PCOS. Certain risk factors include:
Genetics
PCOS tends to run in families, suggesting a strong genetic component.
Insulin Resistance
Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which causes the body to produce more insulin, leading to higher androgen levels.
Inflammation
Low-grade inflammation can stimulate polycystic ovaries to produce androgens, worsening the condition.
Hormonal Imbalances
An imbalance in luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) disrupts normal ovulation.
Lifestyle and Diet
Poor eating habits, sedentary lifestyle, and obesity can exacerbate symptoms and increase pcos risks.
How is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Diagnosed?
Getting a proper PCOS diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, physical exams, and diagnostic tests:
Medical History Review
Gynaecologists will evaluate menstrual cycle patterns, weight changes, and family history of hormonal disorders.
Physical Examination
This includes checking for signs like acne, excess hair growth, and insulin resistance symptoms.
Blood Tests
These tests measure hormone levels (testosterone, LH, FSH), glucose, and cholesterol to identify imbalances.
Pelvic Ultrasound
This is used to detect pcos types and observe the presence of multiple follicles or cysts in the ovaries.
What are Treatment Options for PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)?
While there is no cure for PCOS, the treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. The gynaecologist may recommend several lifestyle modifications, dietary restrictions, and certain medications which can help manage the symptoms and prevent the condition from progressing further.
Lifestyle Changes
Healthy eating and regular physical activity are foundational. These help in managing weight, improving insulin sensitivity, and regulating periods.
Medication
The gynaecologists may recommend the following medications to manage symptoms of PCOS:
- Birth control pills to regulate periods and reduce androgen levels.
- Metformin to improve insulin resistance.
- Clomiphene citrate or Letrozole for stimulating ovulation in women trying to conceive.
Surgical Intervention
Surgical intervention is usually effective for PCOS treatment if the medications and other non-surgical methods do not respond to the symptoms. When the symptoms of PCOS are severe, affecting the lifestyle of the individual adversely, surgery becomes inevitable. The surgical method for PCOS treatment is usually done via laparoscopic ovarian drilling (LOD) to restore ovulation cycles.
How Can I Prevent PCOS?
While you can’t always prevent PCOS, you can lower the risk and manage symptoms effectively:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Even a 5–10% weight loss can improve hormonal balance.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Low-carb, high-fiber meals help stabilize insulin levels.
- Stay Active: Regular exercise improves insulin sensitivity and reduces androgen levels.
- Manage Stress: Chronic stress can exacerbate symptoms and trigger hormonal imbalance.
PCOS and Pregnancy: What You Should Know
PCOS affects hormones in women which can significantly impact fertility. While many women with PCOS can conceive and have normal pregnancies despite having PCOS, there can still be challenges and risks of complications. PCOS affects fertility in women due to inconsistent ovulation, and elevated levels of androgens which can interfere with the growth of healthy eggs. PCOS treatment for women planning to get pregnant usually includes the following –
Ovulation Inducing Drugs
If women with PCOS are planning to conceive or become pregnant, the gynaecologist may prepare a comprehensive care plan for PCOS treatment. This includes drugs to induce ovulation for a successful pregnancy.
Surgical Intervention
The gynecologist may recommend surgery to help restore ovulation by eliminating tissues in the ovaries that produce androgen.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
In case the medications are ineffective with ovulation, doctors may recommend the IVF technique to increase the chances of pregnancy. In IVF, the egg from the female is fertilized with the partner’s sperm in a lab before transferring it to the uterus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can PCOS go away on its own?
No, PCOS is a chronic condition, but its symptoms can be managed with treatment and lifestyle changes.
What are the different types of PCOS?
The main PCOS types include insulin-resistant PCOS, inflammatory PCOS, and post-pill PCOS. Each type has different causes and treatment responses.
Is there a specific PCOS test for diagnosis?
No single test can diagnose PCOS. It requires a combination of blood tests, ultrasound, and clinical evaluation.
Can I get pregnant if I have PCOS?
Yes, many women with PCOS conceive successfully with the right treatment and support.
What are long-term pcos complications?
If untreated, PCOS can lead to infertility, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and endometrial cancer.
Does PCOS affect mental health?
Yes, women with PCOS are at a higher risk of anxiety and depression due to hormonal imbalances and lifestyle stressors.