PCOS is a frequent hormone-related disorder. It causes irregular menstrual cycles, excessive hair growth, acne, and infertility. People with PCOS may be more susceptible to certain health issues, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. It is more difficult to get pregnant than the other persons.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a hormonal imbalance that happens when the ovaries generate too many hormones. PCOS causes the ovaries to produce abnormally high levels of hormones known as androgens. These imbalances affect the reproductive hormones. Therefore, individuals with PCOS frequently experience irregular menstrual cycles, missed periods, and unpredictable ovulation.
How Common is PCOS?
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent hormonal condition that affects adults of reproductive age. It affects roughly 5-10% of women worldwide. PCOS is a prominent cause of female infertility and is frequently coupled with other health problems such as irregular menstrual periods, high androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries.
Although the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, it is thought to be a combination of hereditary and environmental factors. Early detection and treatment of PCOS are critical for alleviating symptoms and lowering the risk of associated health issues.
Symptoms of PCOS
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is defined by some symptoms that can vary in severity. Common symptoms include:
- Irregular menstrual cycles: Women with PCOS frequently have irregular or infrequent menstrual cycles.
- Excess androgen levels: High levels of male hormones (androgens) can cause physical symptoms such as acne, excessive facial and body hair (hirsutism), and male-pattern baldness.
- Polycystic ovaries: The ovaries may produce small collections of fluid known as cysts, which imaging tests can discover.
- Cysts: On ultrasonography, many patients with PCOS have enlarged ovaries or a large number of follicles.
- Infertility: PCOS is the leading cause of infertility. Failure to ovulate on a regular or frequent basis might lead to infertility.
Causes of PCOS
The cause of polycystic ovary syndrome is not known exactly. However, it is thought that genetic or environmental factors may cause this disease.
Individuals with polycystic ovary syndrome in their family are more likely to have this disease. In addition, obesity can also lead to polycystic ovary syndrome. Since insulin resistance caused by overweight causes an increase in insulin hormone in the blood, androgen hormone increases in the body. Since sex hormones are disrupted, ovulation problems occur. For these reasons, polycystic ovary syndrome may occur.
Diagnosis of PCOS
In most circumstances, Doctors can diagnose PCOS after examining and discussing the symptoms. They can perform blood tests or do an ultrasound to determine the diagnosis.
A person should tell the symptoms. She should explain the family’s medical history. A doctor performs a physical examination to determine the PCOS.
- A pelvic exam should be performed.
- Some extra tests should be performed to check hormone levels etc.
- A pelvic ultrasound should be performed.
Treatment of PCOS
The doctor will recommend treatment depending on the symptoms, past medical history, and other health concerns, as well as the interest in getting pregnant. Drugs, lifestyle changes, or a combination of the two are all options for treatment.
If a person wants to get pregnant, these treatment options are performed:
- Lifestyle changes: Diet and exercise are crucial in managing PCOS.
- Medications: Birth control pills and anti-androgen medications help regulate symptoms.
- Regular monitoring: Blood tests and weight management can improve symptoms.
How to Prevent PCOS?
There is no established method for preventing PCOS, but you can take small actions to alleviate symptoms. For example, eating nourishing meals, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight for your body can all help you prevent the symptoms of PCOS