Understanding PCOS: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options | Dr. Sayali Raiban

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age. As an Obstetrician and Infertility Specialist at Sankalp Women's Hospital, Borivali (East), Mumbai, Dr. Sayali Raiban offers a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and managing PCOS. In this blog, we will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for PCOS to help women understand this condition and the importance of early intervention.

What is PCOS?

PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that affects the ovaries' normal functioning. Women with PCOS may have enlarged ovaries containing multiple small cysts (fluid-filled sacs), which can interfere with regular ovulation. The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but it is linked to factors like genetics, insulin resistance, and inflammation.

Symptoms of PCOS

The symptoms of PCOS can vary from mild to severe and may include:

Irregular periods: Infrequent, prolonged, or absent menstrual cycles are common in women with PCOS.
Excess androgens: Elevated levels of male hormones can lead to symptoms such as excessive facial or body hair (hirsutism), acne, and hair thinning (alopecia).
Weight gain: Many women with PCOS experience weight gain or struggle to lose weight.
Infertility: Difficulty conceiving due to irregular ovulation or anovulation.
Polycystic ovaries: The presence of multiple small cysts in the ovaries detected through ultrasound.

What Causes PCOS?

Although the exact cause of PCOS remains unclear, several factors are thought to contribute to its development:

Insulin resistance: Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, causing the body to produce more insulin, which can trigger higher androgen levels.
Hormonal imbalance: Excess production of androgens (male hormones) prevents normal ovulation and leads to the development of ovarian cysts.
Genetics: PCOS tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic link.
Inflammation: Chronic low-grade inflammation is common in women with PCOS, which can exacerbate hormonal imbalances.

Diagnosing PCOS

Diagnosing PCOS involves a comprehensive assessment, including:

Medical history: A thorough review of the patient's symptoms, menstrual cycle, and family history.
Physical examination: Checking for signs such as excess hair growth, acne, and weight gain.
Blood tests: To measure hormone levels, including androgens, insulin, and other related hormones.
Ultrasound: Imaging to assess the ovaries for cysts and monitor the endometrial lining.

Treatment Options for PCOS

While there is no cure for PCOS, various treatment options can manage symptoms and reduce complications. These may include:

Lifestyle changes: Weight loss through a balanced diet and regular exercise can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce androgen levels. Even a 5-10% reduction in body weight can significantly improve symptoms.

Medications:

Birth control pills: These help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce androgen levels, and improve acne and hirsutism.
Anti-androgen medications: These can block the effects of androgens and reduce excessive hair growth.
Metformin: A medication commonly used for type 2 diabetes, metformin improves insulin resistance and may help regulate ovulation.
Fertility treatments: For women trying to conceive, fertility medications such as clomiphene citrate or letrozole may stimulate ovulation.
Fertility treatments: If lifestyle changes and medications do not help with ovulation, more advanced fertility treatments such as IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) may be considered.

PCOS and Infertility

PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility, but with proper management, many women with PCOS can successfully conceive. Dr. Sayali Raiban offers personalized infertility treatment plans at Sankalp Women's Hospital to help women with PCOS achieve their family-planning goals. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to improve fertility outcomes.

Managing Long-Term Health Risks

Women with PCOS are at a higher risk of developing long-term health issues, such as:

Type 2 diabetes
Cardiovascular disease
Sleep apnea
Endometrial cancer

Regular check-ups, healthy lifestyle changes, and managing symptoms can help reduce the risk of these complications.

PCOS is a manageable condition that affects millions of women worldwide. With the right medical care, lifestyle changes, and treatment, women with PCOS can lead healthy lives and successfully manage their symptoms. If you are experiencing symptoms of PCOS or have concerns about your menstrual health, contact Dr. Sayali Raiban at Sankalp Women's Hospital, Borivali (East), Mumbai, for expert diagnosis and personalized treatment plans.

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