What is PCOS?
PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a common hormonal disorder that affects women. It is estimated that up to 10% of women of reproductive age have PCOS. The exact cause is unknown, but it often involves a hormone imbalance.
The main signs and symptoms of PCOS include:
- Irregular or absent menstrual periods - this is often the first symptom that causes women to seek medical attention. The lack of regular periods is due to irregular ovulation.
- Infertility - due to irregular ovulation, women with PCOS may struggle with getting pregnant. However, many still conceive with treatment.
- Pelvic pain - some women experience occasional pelvic pain or pelvic discomfort due to PCOS.
- Excess androgen - higher than normal male hormone levels in women can cause symptoms like facial hair growth, acne, and male-pattern baldness.
- Weight gain - women with PCOS tend to gain weight easily and struggle to lose it due to metabolic abnormalities.
PCOS increases a woman's risk for several other health conditions:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Endometrial cancer
To diagnose PCOS, doctors will check for physical signs and symptoms, conduct blood tests to measure hormone levels, and perform an ultrasound of the ovaries. They may also screen for complications like diabetes.
Some treatment options for managing PCOS include:
- Lifestyle changes like eating healthy, exercising regularly, and losing weight if overweight. This is the first line of treatment.
- Birth control pills can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce male hormone levels.
- Fertility treatments like ovulation induction medications may be needed if trying to conceive.
While there is no cure for PCOS, symptoms can often be managed successfully with lifestyle interventions and medication. The outlook for women with PCOS continues to improve. Early diagnosis, achievable treatment goals, and regular monitoring can help those with PCOS manage their symptoms and prevent complications.
I tried to cover the key points on understanding PCOS - let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions!