Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder affecting women during their reproductive years. It is one of many reasons for irregular periods, translating to fewer menstrual cycles each year or longer cycles. It can also cause elevated levels of a hormone called androgen in the body.
This condition is characterized by the presence of small cysts (fluid-filled sacs) that hold immature eggs, called follicles. With this condition, the follicles fail to regularly release eggs. Women with PCOS can be more susceptible to certain conditions, including diabetes and high blood pressure. This article will explain everything you need to know about PCOS, including its causes and treatments.
What Causes Polycystic Ovaries?
While the exact cause of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is not fully understood, several factors play a role in the development of this condition:
Insulin resistance
The pancreas releases insulin, which helps metabolize sugar and use it as energy. When the body becomes insulin resistant, this conversion does not happen properly, and the pancreas secretes more and more insulin to counterbalance it.
What Causes Polycystic Ovaries?
The ovaries overproduce androgen due to high levels of insulin in the blood. The imbalance of these hormones leads to the interruption of the menstrual cycle and the appearance of cysts in the ovaries.
Inflammation in Mild Degree
Women with PCOS have been shown to have a low level of inflammation. This low-grade but chronic inflammation keeps white blood cells continually pumping out defensive substances that elevate levels of androgens in the blood. The rise in androgen makes ovulation difficult.
Obesity
In the body, due to obesity, insulin is produced at a higher level, which results in the formation of PCOS.
Genetics
PCOS tends to run in families, so women with a mother or sister who have PCOS are at a higher risk of also developing PCOS.
What Are the Symptoms of PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Symptoms usually start around the time of the first menstrual cycle at the onset of Puberty. Sometimes, though, PCOS begins at a later stage, such as a result of substantial weight gain, at which point the person might show their first symptoms of PCOS.
The symptoms and signs of PCOS are diverse. A diagnosis is generally made when at least two out of the following three symptoms are present:
One of the most prominent signs of PCOS is the number of periods, which might reduce, become irregular, or result in longer menstrual cycles. They might have fewer than nine menstrual cycles a year, cycles that are longer than 35 days, or highly abnormal and difficult periods.
What Are the Symptoms of PCOS?
Chronic Androgen Excess
Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have abnormally high levels of male sex hormones (androgens), which in turn lead to outward symptoms like excess body and facial hair (hirsutism), moderate-to-severe acne and male-pattern alopecia.
Presence of Small Ovarian Cysts
These cysts are actually ovarian follicles, each carrying an immature egg. These eggs do not mature enough to trigger menstruation, so the ovaries may not function.
Severe and Treatment-Resistant Acne
People with PCOS often have severe acne, usually brought on by elevated androgen levels. High levels of the bacteria Lead to acne breakouts that do not respond to regular treatments, which may appear on the face, neck, chest, and back.
Male Pattern Hair Loss
This type can commonly be seen in women with PCOS owing to abnormality in androgen levels. This type of hair loss generally begins at the front of the scalp and slowly impacts the top area of the head.
Insulin Resistance and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Insulin resistance is a prominent feature in women with PCOS, which may result in increased blood sugar levels and eventually Type 2 diabetes. This disorder has also been linked with weight gain, especially in the abdominal region, as well as other metabolic disorders.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Diagnosed
How is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Diagnosed?
To determine whether someone has PCOS, a doctor will initially take a thorough medical history and conduct a physical exam. The final diagnosis is confirmed via ultrasound and blood tests. In the medical history, women with PCOS might note having irregular periods or very large gaps between periods.
They can also become overweight, grow excessive hair (hirsutism), develop acne, or have fertility issues. Women with PCOS tend to have enlarged and cystic ovaries on ultrasound. Blood tests might indicate high blood sugar, high cholesterol, or elevated male hormones.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Treatment
There is no definitive cure for PCOS, and treatment revolves around tackling its symptoms, from infertility and hirsutism to acne and obesity.
Treatment can involve lifestyle modifications along with medication. PCOS is treated mainly with medicines to help control the symptoms. A doctor may suggest the following to regulate the menstrual cycle:
Combination Birth Control Pills
These pills contain both estrogen and progestin, which helps cut androgen production and balances estrogen levels. Estrogen also works to establish a woman’s proper bleeding cycle, and if not working properly, hormonal regulation can decrease the chance of endometrial cancer, along with abnormal bleeding, excessive hair growth, and acne. Instead of pills, a combination of estrogen and progestin can be given in the form of a hormonal patch or vaginal ring.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Treatment
Progestin Treatment
Taking progestin alone for 10 to 14 days each month (or every two months) can regulate the menstrual cycle and protect against endometrial cancer. However, the progestin treatment does not improve androgen levels nor prevent pregnancy. If the patient does not wish to conceive, progestin-only pills (without estrogen) or a progestin IUD (intrauterine device) are better options.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Fertility
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) negatively affects fertility because women with this condition typically do not have regular ovulation (on a monthly basis). However, with lifestyle modification and hormonal medications/ovulation stimulants, the majority of women with PCOS can still achieve pregnancy. Women with PCOS may require fertility treatments, including IVF (In Vitro Fertilization), to achieve pregnancy.
How is Infertility in Women with PCOS Treated?
Ovulation induction is one of the treatments for women with PCOS who are infertile. Clomiphene citrate and letrozole are oral medications commonly prescribed to stimulate ovulation in women with PCOS. If ovulation is not achieved with these medications, your doctor may prescribe gonadotropins, which are ovarian stimulants. Because these medications can lead to ovarian overstimulation, it is important that women taking them be carefully monitored.
Women who are overweight can often restore ovulation and enhance their chance of having a child weight loss. Drugs that are insulin-sensitizing, such as metformin, may also help improve the chances of ovulation. It may also help reduce the risk of developing diabetes or metabolic syndrome.
Can I Live a Normal Life with PCOS?
The answer is yes. You can lead a normal life if you have PCOS. Although PCOS symptoms such as irregular periods, acne, and weight gain can be troubling, many people with the condition live healthy, active lives.
Can I Live a Normal Life with PCOS?
Most people with PCOS will be able to manage their symptoms with the right treatment, which may include medication, lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and exercise, and learning to cope with stress. It is essential to collaborate with a healthcare professional to develop a strategy that meets your requirements and allows you to prioritize your health.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Endometriosis
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis are two distinct reproductive disorders. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) develops when a woman’s ovaries release too many immature eggs, throwing off her hormone levels. It can lead to irregular periods, acne, and weight gain.
Endometriosis, by contrast, occurs when the endometrium-like tissue grows outside the uterus, triggering pain and sometimes infertility. The two conditions are distinct, but some people have both PCOS and endometriosis, which can complicate the management of symptoms. You should consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
What Is the Best Way to Treat PCOS?
PCOS treatment often requires a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, hormone therapy, or surgery. Treatments typically involve lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly to manage weight and maintain hormone balance.
For women who are trying to get pregnant, drugs such as Clomid can stimulate ovulation. Birth control pills can be used to regulate periods and alleviate acne or excessive hair growth. Sometimes, medications such as metformin can be beneficial for insulin resistance. It is important to consult with a doctor to develop a treatment plan that is right for you and aligns with your health goals.
Final Word
If you have symptoms of ovarian dysfunction or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), see your gynecologist or a reproductive endocrinologist. These experts are dedicated to women’s reproductive health and are able to run tests to help diagnose PCOS and suggest appropriate treatments. A general doctor will typically refer you to a specialist if they suspect PCOS. If symptoms of PCOS are present, it is important medical care should be sought, as early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent the risk of complications such as diabetes and heart disease.
