Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition affecting many women, often beginning around puberty or early adulthood. It shows up differently for each person and its symptoms may evolve over time.

Despite being widespread, PCOS frequently goes undiagnosed because symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for other conditions, complicating diagnosis. Typical signs include:

• Irregular menstrual cycles (missed periods, very long cycles, or overly frequent periods)
• Signs of excess “male” hormones (androgens), such as:
  • Excessive facial or body hair (hirsutism)
  • Persistent acne
  • Hair thinning or loss
  • Weight gain
  • Difficulty conceiving (infertility)
• Medical exams may reveal ovarian cysts, hence the condition's name, though cysts aren't mandatory for diagnosis.

How is PCOS diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves assessing multiple symptoms collectively. Doctors may order blood tests to check hormone levels and imaging tests, like a pelvic ultrasound. It’s also crucial to exclude other conditions like thyroid disorders or hormone-producing tumours.

What causes PCOS?

The exact cause of PCOS remains unclear, but genetics likely plays a role—women with a family history of PCOS have a higher risk. It’s also more common in women with type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance.

Fundamentally, PCOS involves a hormonal imbalance triggering excessive androgen production. This disrupts ovulation, causing fertility issues and physical symptoms. It also affects how the body processes insulin, increasing the risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

Treatment options for PCOS

PCOS doesn’t have a cure, but treatments can alleviate symptoms and reduce complications.

Lifestyle adjustments

Balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and weight management (when needed) can significantly reduce symptoms and help prevent diabetes and heart disease.

Medication

• Metformin, commonly used for diabetes, can boost insulin sensitivity.
• Oral contraceptives regulate menstrual cycles and reduce acne and excessive hair growth.
• For severe hirsutism, anti-androgen medications may be prescribed.

Cosmetic treatments

Waxing, laser hair removal, electrolysis, or bleaching can help manage excess hair growth.

Fertility treatments

For women aiming for pregnancy, ovulation-stimulating medications may be recommended. Close medical monitoring is vital, as PCOS raises pregnancy-related risks like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and miscarriage.

What are the possible complications of PCOS?

Left unmanaged, PCOS can lead to significant long-term issues:

• Heart disease: PCOS often correlates with high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and diabetes.
• Endometrial cancer: Irregular ovulation can heighten the risk of uterine lining cancer.
• Mental health conditions: PCOS can have profound psychological impacts, increasing the risk of anxiety or depression.
• Sleep apnea: Particularly common among overweight women, sleep apnea frequently co-occurs with PCOS.

Consistent medical care and healthy lifestyle practices are crucial to mitigate these risks.

Conclusion

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a complex but common hormonal condition impacting menstruation, fertility, physical appearance, and overall metabolic health. Although incurable, proper management and lifestyle modifications can significantly improve quality of life. Personalized medical support helps women with PCOS achieve better health outcomes and avoid long-term complications.