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All About Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Millions of women suffer from polycystic ovarian syndrome, or PCOS, but only a few understand what it actually is. Knowing what PCOS is and isn’t can help you manage it properly, whether you’re dealing with symptoms yourself or are attempting to help someone who is.

Let’s discuss this hormonal disorder in more detail, covering what causes PCOS, symptoms, diagnosis, and the best treatment for PCOS. Keep reading for a clear picture of the disorder. Also watch this video for more insights about PCOS & PCOD.

What is PCOS?

What is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, or PCOS, is a hormonal condition that mainly affects women who are in or nearing their reproductive age. It’s not just about ovarian cysts, despite the name. Reproductive hormone abnormalities, particularly the increased levels of insulin and androgens (male hormones), are a hallmark of PCOS. The development and release of eggs during ovulation may be hampered by these imbalances.

It’s estimated that between 6 and 13% of women in their reproductive years have PCOS, but even more shocking is the fact that up to 70% of them go untreated. And why do you think this happens? Mostly because of a lack of awareness. Most women take missing periods and other symptoms as normal when they are not. This is also partially due to the fact that symptoms can differ greatly and that many women are unaware that the changes in their bodies are caused by a hormone disorder.

When Does PCOS Usually Start?

Although PCOS symptoms might take years to identify or diagnose, they frequently begin in youth. In their 20’s or 30’s, most people learn they have PCOS, especially if they have problems getting pregnant. However, PCOS can appear differently in each individual and can occur at any point after puberty.

Symptoms of PCOS Problem in Females 

PCOS Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments Explained | Dr Batra's®

The symptoms of PCOS might vary greatly from person to person. While some women cope with multiple symptoms, others only have one or two. Age, weight, stress levels, and lifestyle choices can all have an impact on how severe these symptoms become over time.

Let us explore the most common PCOS symptoms that women usually experience if they have the disorder.

  • Irregular or non-existent periods: - An irregular menstrual cycle is one of the most obvious PCOS signs and symptoms. This could indicate that your cycles are irregular, occur months apart, or go months without showing up at all. When the menstrual cycle finally begins, some women also suffer from extremely heavy bleeding. These abnormalities occur because the ovaries’ regular release of eggs (ovulation) is frequently hindered by the hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS.
  • Overproduction of Hair: - Yet another prevalent problem associated with PCOS is unwanted hair growth. In places where women usually have little hair, such as the upper lip, chin, chest, back, or stomach, you may find coarse or black hair growing in. This occurs as a result of the ovaries producing more androgens (male hormones) due to PCOS, which stimulate hair follicles in these areas.
  • Acne and oily skin: - Another warning indication is unreasoned and persistent acne or oily skin, particularly if it persists well past adolescence or doesn’t improve with over-the-counter remedies. Excess androgens, which increase oil production and clog pores, are the cause of hormonal acne, which frequently develops along the chin, cheeks, and jawline.
  • Male pattern baldness or hair thinning: - One of the most common symptoms of PCOS is that the scalp may undergo excessive hair growth, in contrast to other parts of the body. It can be emotionally draining and unpleasant to have thinning hair, particularly at the crown or part line. This type of hair loss is associated with elevated testosterone levels and resembles male-pattern baldness.
  • Gaining Weight or Having Problems Losing Weight: - Even when they don’t make significant dietary or exercise modifications, many women with PCOS observe that they gain weight easily. Since insulin resistance is directly linked to abdominal fat, it is particularly alarming that the majority of the weight tends to accumulate around the waist. At the same time, because PCOS affects hormone balance and metabolism, weight loss can be exceptionally challenging.
  • Emotional well-being and mood swings: - PCOS affects mental health in addition to physical health. Mood fluctuations, anxiety, despair, and low self-esteem are more common in women with PCOS. Hormonal imbalances and the strain of dealing with chronic physical issues like weight gain or acne can both cause these emotional shifts.
  • Obstetrical Difficulties: - Many women with PCOS have trouble getting pregnant because the disorder interferes with ovulation. It is more difficult to accurately forecast fertile windows or the time of intercourse in the absence of regular ovulation. However, having PCOS does not preclude getting pregnant; it may simply take longer or necessitate medical assistance.

It is important to keep in mind that PCOS does not require you to check every box. While some women cope with more overt or disruptive symptoms, others have relatively minor symptoms that they may ignore or mistake for other causes. It’s always worthwhile to consult a healthcare professional if you notice any irregularities in your cycle, skin, mood, or vitality, particularly if multiple symptoms appear to be coexisting.

The Health Risks Associated with PCOS

PCOS is more than just a reproductive issue. It can also raise your risk of several long-term health concerns, such as:

  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Heart disease
  • Endometrial cancer
  • Sleep apnea

These risks are partly tied to insulin resistance, a common feature in PCOS. That’s why timely diagnosis and PCOS treatment are so important.

What Causes PCOS?

Causes_of_PCOS

Although PCOS causes are unknown, a number of factors most likely have a role in its occurrence and development:

  1. 1. An imbalance of hormones: Most notably, increased insulin and androgen levels are linked to PCOS. Blood sugar levels rise when the body is unable to use insulin effectively, a condition known as insulin resistance. The body produces extra insulin to make up for it, which may cause the ovaries to produce too much androgen.
  2. 2. Family history and genetics: It is common for PCOS to run in families. You have a higher chance of getting PCOS if your mother or sibling has it. So, genetics could be a reason you have it. 
  3. 3. Environment and Lifestyle: Although it doesn’t cause PCOS, being overweight might intensify its symptoms and hormonal abnormalities. In a similar vein, a bad diet and little exercise can raise insulin resistance, which increases the intensity and longevity of PCOS symptoms.

Making a PCOS diagnosis

Speaking with your healthcare practitioner is the first step if you think you might have PCOS. Finding the right Obstetrics and Gynecologist is your first step to improved health. Jain Multispeciality Hospital has an amazing and talented team of gynecologists who attend to you and make sure your condition is improved with the right lifestyle changes and best medicine for PCOS. The diagnosis typically requires and looks for these-

  • Medical Background and Symptoms- Your doctor will inquire about any changes in your weight, skin or hair, and menstrual cycle to determine the PCOS cause.
  • PCOS Blood Test- In order to rule out other potential causes, these are used to measure hormone levels, particularly those of insulin and androgens. Also, the PCOS blood tests are more accurate and can give you the exact cause.
  • Ultrasonography- Although not all women with PCOS have cysts, an internal scan can show whether you have several small cysts (underdeveloped follicles) on your ovaries. This helps continue with the PCOS treatment in the right direction.

A diagnosis of PCOS typically requires at least two of the following:

  • Irregular or absent periods
  • Excess androgen levels (either in blood tests or visible PCOS symptoms)
  • Polycystic ovaries with PCOS ultrasound

Impact of PCOS on Fertility

PCOS and Infertility: Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment - Birla Fertility & IVF

Whether or not women with PCOS can conceive is one of their most frequent worries. The good news is that, with or without medication, a large number of women with PCOS do go on to have healthy babies.

However, it may take longer to conceive because PCOS frequently interferes with ovulation. In IVF and other reproductive treatments, such as medication to induce ovulation, may be necessary for certain women. However, talking to a professional doctor at Jain Multispeciality Hospital is necessary. 

PCOS in women may also lead to some issues like preterm birth, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and other pregnancy problems. Working closely with your healthcare professional is essential to controlling these risks and promoting a healthy pregnancy if you have PCOS and are attempting to conceive.

Is PCOS Reversible?

One of the most asked questions today is whether PCOS can be reversed completely. Since PCOS is a chronic disorder, it never fully goes away. However, with the correct strategy, its symptoms can frequently be controlled or even much diminished. Particularly after menopause, many women discover that their PCOS symptoms gradually improve. However, there is still a chance of developing some additional issues like diabetes and heart disease even after menopause.

How Do We Treat PCOS?

PCOS does not have a single treatment. Rather, the goal of treatment is to control symptoms and avoid long-term health problems. Your age, symptoms, health objectives, and whether or not you intend to become pregnant will all influence your specific approach.

Some of the possible lifestyle changes that can help you with PCOS are-

  • Choosing healthy food for PCOS and yoga for PCOS if you’re trying to conceive.
  • Fertility and ovulation can be enhanced by even modest weight loss.
  • Drugs that Induce Ovulation
  • Low stress levels and more focus on your health
  • Better sleep and rest for the body

PCOS Treatments for Fertility

  • Most of you must have heard that IVF is one option to consider if drugs don’t work. While IVF is not the first option that couples look for, it has a good success rate.
  • Some of the treatments to choose from are if you are not trying to conceive-
  • Birth control pills, as these aid in reducing unwanted hair or acne, lowering testosterone levels, and regulating periods.
  • Metformin is frequently used to reduce testosterone levels and improve insulin resistance.
  • PCOS medicines that are anti-androgen as these, can aid with acne and unwelcome hair growth.
  • Changes in lifestyle are the cornerstones of controlling weight and insulin resistance, followed by a nutritious PCOS diet plan and consistent exercise for the PCOS problem.

Living with PCOS: What Helps?

While you understand what PCOS actually is, let us look at the condition and how your life is once you are diagnosed with PCOS. Honestly, it can be annoying to have PCOS, particularly if your confidence or day-to-day activities are impacted by your PCOS symptoms. Here are a few strategies for taking charge:

  • Stay Active- Exercise for the PCOS problem promotes weight loss and increases insulin sensitivity. Most days, try to get in at least 30 minutes.
  • Consume Balanced Meals- Select lean meats, whole grains, healthy fats, and a lot of fiber. Reduce refined carbs and sweets.
  • Stress Management- PCOS can be emotionally draining. Activities such as yoga, meditation, or counseling can be very beneficial.
  • Seek Assistance- Feelings of loneliness might be lessened by speaking with people who have gone through similar things or by joining a PCOS support group, if any.
  • Monitor Your Symptoms- You and your doctor can determine what is and is not working by keeping a journal of your moods, symptoms, and cycles.

Is It Possible to Prevent PCOS?

PCOS cannot be completely avoided, particularly if it runs in your family. Nonetheless, leading a healthy lifestyle and strictly following PCOS precautions can greatly reduce your chances of experiencing worsening symptoms or associated disorders.

Pay attention to:

  • Focusing on nutritious PCOS foods to eat
  • Maintaining an active lifestyle
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Keeping an eye on your mental well-being

Over time, even modest, regular actions can have a significant impact. So, don’t get impatient with the results. Leading a healthy lifestyle is always a great option to improve your overall health. 

When Is the Right Time to See a Doctor?

Consult your healthcare professional if you observe:

  • Periods that are irregular or skipped
  • Unexplained or sudden weight gain
  • Excess hair growth or acne
  • Having trouble conceiving
  • Insulin resistance symptoms include thirst or exhaustion.

Always remember, you can live a happier, more comfortable life and prevent consequences with early diagnosis and action.

The Final Thoughts

Even though PCOS is a chronic condition, it doesn’t have to rule your life. You can manage your symptoms and safeguard your long-term health with the correct information, assistance, and treatment plan. Whether you want to start a family, control your cycles, or feel better on a daily basis, you are not alone. Jain Multispeciality Hospital is a call away to help you in your PCOS journey. Book an appointment at the hospital for proper treatment. 

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