What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?
A complex hormonal disorder called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects a woman’s ovaries because of an imbalance in reproductive hormones.
The ovaries produce aberrant androgens (male sex hormones) as a result of PCOS. The ovaries, which release eggs for fertilization, are controlled by hormones. Follicles, or sacs, are where these eggs develop. The eggs will stay in the follicle and may develop into cysts if the hormones that cause the release of the eggs from the follicles are not present in the proper amounts.
The cysts that can develop on the ovaries are the source of the term PCOS. Contrary to what its name suggests, women with PCOS do not necessarily develop cysts.
Who is susceptible to PCOS?
Women of all races and ethnicities who are of childbearing age can develop PCOS.
Symptoms may manifest after significant weight gain or when a woman begins menstruating during puberty.
How common is PCOS?
It’s unclear how many people actually have PCOS. Since they don’t exhibit any symptoms, many women with PCOS are actually ignorant of their illness. In the UK, it is estimated that 10% of women are affected.
What causes PCOS?
This condition’s precise cause is unknown. Numerous factors are thought to be involved, including:
- genetics
- obesity
- insulin resistance
- inflammation
What are the symptoms of PCOS?
Symptoms of PCOS may include:
- periods that are irregular, very light, or non-existent
- enlarged ovaries
- ovarian cysts
- excessive body hair
- weight gain, particularly around the abdomen
- acne and/or oily skin
- male pattern baldness or thinning hair
- skin tags
- dark skin patches in skin creases
- pelvic pain
Can fertility be impacted by PCOS?
Although it is treatable, PCOS is one of the main causes of infertility in women. Until they have trouble getting pregnant, people frequently aren’t aware that they have PCOS.
Because the cysts disrupt ovulation and prevent an egg from being released for fertilization, about 70–80% of people with PCOS will have difficulty becoming pregnant.
Can PCOS affect pregnancy?
Infertility is not always a result of PCOS. Although it might be more difficult, you can still become pregnant.
A person with PCOS is more likely to experience pregnancy complications, including miscarriage, an early birth, gestational diabetes, or pregnancy-induced hypertension.
When giving birth, women with PCOS are more likely to require a cesarean section.
What other complications can PCOS lead to?
People with PCOS can develop serious health problems, such as:
- type 2 diabetes
- high blood pressure
- cardiovascular issues
- high cholesterol
- endometrial cancer
- sleep apnoea
- mood disorders
- anxiety or depression
- steatohepatitis (severe liver inflammation)
When should you consult a doctor about PCOS?
You should consult a doctor if any of the symptoms listed above—such as irregular periods, excessive hair, acne, or weight gain—are degrading your quality of life.
You should also see your doctor if, after a year of trying, you are still having trouble getting pregnant.
How is PCOS diagnosed?
An early diagnosis can lower the risk of long-term complications, even though there isn’t a single test that can identify PCOS.
After taking a thorough medical history, a doctor will concentrate on symptoms. A variety of physical examinations, including a pelvic exam, will be performed to look for any unusual growths on the uterus or ovaries. Blood tests may also be carried out to measure insulin, cholesterol, and hormone levels. To check for ovarian cysts, an ultrasound may also be utilized.
You may be diagnosed with PCOS if you exhibit at least two of the three primary symptoms: polycystic ovaries, excess androgen, and irregular periods. For specialized care, you might be referred to an endocrinologist.
How is PCOS treated medically?
A number of variables, including your age, the intensity of your symptoms, your general health, and whether or not you are attempting to conceive, affect how you treat PCOS.
Although lifestyle modifications are the mainstay of PCOS treatment, the following drugs may also be helpful:
- ovulation medication, if trying to get pregnant
- birth control
- diabetes medication
- medication to treat symptoms like acne or hair growth
Can PCOS be treated with surgery?
Surgery might be considered if medication and lifestyle modifications prove ineffective. Laparoscopic ovarian drilling (LOD) is a technique that eliminates the ovarian tissue that produces androgens by using heat or a laser.
Is it possible to cure PCOS?
Although PCOS cannot be cured, its symptoms can be controlled and its risks decreased with treatment.
When a woman goes through menopause, PCOS may disappear, but for some women, the hormonal imbalance persists as they age.
How is PCOS managed?
It is advised to see a doctor on a regular basis to get tested for any potential conditions that might arise from PCOS.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help someone with PCOS feel less irritated. Symptoms can be lessened with a nutritious diet and 30 minutes of exercise three times a week.
Additionally, people can get cosmetic procedures like laser hair removal to boost their confidence if they are experiencing low self-esteem, possibly as a result of weight gain, excessive body hair, or acne.
Acupuncture may alleviate symptoms, according to some studies, although the findings are conflicting.