What is PCOS?
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is a common hormonal disorder that affects women during their reproductive years. An estimated 5-10% of women have PCOS, making it one of the most common causes of infertility and menstrual irregularities.
The key features of PCOS include:
- Irregular or absent menstrual cycles: Women with PCOS often have infrequent, irregular, or prolonged menstrual periods. Some women have very few periods or don't get their period at all.
- Excess androgen levels: Women with PCOS tend to have higher levels of androgens like testosterone. This can cause symptoms like excess facial and body hair growth, acne, and thinning hair.
- Polycystic ovaries: Polycystic means "many cysts," and women with PCOS often have enlarged ovaries with small fluid-filled cysts. However, cystic ovaries alone do not confirm PCOS.
What causes PCOS?
The exact cause is unknown, but it likely involves a complex interaction between genetic, metabolic, and environmental factors such as:
- Genetics - PCOS runs in families and can be inherited. Certain gene mutations are associated with PCOS.
- Insulin resistance - Many women with PCOS are resistant to the action of insulin and produce higher insulin levels to overcome this.
- Inflammation and oxidative stress may also play a role.
What are the symptoms of PCOS?
Symptoms vary widely, but may include:
- Irregular, infrequent, or prolonged periods
- Excess hair growth on the face, chest, or back
- Thinning hair or hair loss on the scalp
- Acne, oily skin, or dandruff
- Skin tags or darkening skin
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Depression, anxiety, or mood changes
How is PCOS diagnosed?
There's no single definitive test for PCOS. To diagnose it, your doctor will typically:
- Review your symptoms and medical history
- Conduct a physical exam to check for signs of high androgen levels
- Run blood tests to measure hormone levels
- Perform an ultrasound to look at your ovaries
You must have at least two of the following criteria to be diagnosed:
- Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
- High androgen levels
- Polycystic ovaries on an ultrasound
What is the treatment for PCOS?
While there's no cure for PCOS, various treatments can help manage symptoms. Common treatments include:
- Birth control pills or other hormones to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels
- Diabetes medication like metformin to improve insulin sensitivity
- Anti-androgens to counteract excess testosterone
- Fertility treatments like ovulation induction medications to help achieve pregnancy
- Lifestyle changes like weight loss, healthy diet, and exercise
Treatment is tailored to each woman's goals in terms of managing reproductive, metabolic, or appearance-related symptoms. Factors like infertility, metabolic syndrome, obesity, hirsutism, acne, and quality of life are all taken into consideration.
The key is finding an integrated approach that addresses the root hormonal imbalances of PCOS through medications, supplements, and lifestyle changes. This can help manage symptoms in both the short and long term.
For more information or personalized treatment, consider consulting with Rebalance Clinic .