PCOS Awareness: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and ManagemCOS Awareness: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Managementent

PCOS Awareness: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Management

Author: Dr Humaira Latif | Category: Women's Health

🔹 Introduction

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder

🔹 Symptoms of PCOS

• Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
• Excessive hair growth (hirsutism)
• Acne and oily skin
• Unexplained weight gain
• Thinning hair or hair loss
• Difficulty conceiving (infertility)
• Multiple small ovarian cysts detected on ultrasound

🔹 Causes and Risk Factors

Although the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, several factors are believed to play a role:

1. Genetic predisposition: PCOS often runs in families.
2. Insulin resistance: High insulin levels can lead to excess androgen production.
3. Hormonal imbalance: Elevated androgens disrupt ovulation.
4. Lifestyle factors: Sedentary lifestyle and poor diet can worsen symptoms.

🔹 Complications of Untreated PCOS

Complication	Description
Infertility	Due to irregular ovulation or anovulation
Type 2 Diabetes	Increased risk due to insulin resistance
Cardiovascular disease	High cholesterol, hypertension, and obesity increase risks
Endometrial cancer	Long-term anovulation increases the risk

🔹 Diagnosis

Doctors use the Rotterdam criteria for diagnosis, requiring two of the following three:

• Irregular or absent ovulation
• Clinical or biochemical signs of high androgens
• Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound

Additional tests may include blood tests for hormone levels and metabolic screening.

🔹 Treatment and Management

1. Lifestyle Modifications

• Balanced diet with low glycemic index foods
• Regular exercise to improve insulin sensitivity
• Weight management strategies

2. Medical Treatment

Hormonal contraceptives: To regulate menstrual cycles

Metformin: Improves insulin resistance

Clomiphene citrate: For fertility induction

Anti-androgen medications: Reduce acne and hair growth

🔹 Awareness and Prevention

Public health initiatives, awareness campaigns, and patient education play a vital role in improving early detection of PCOS. Women should be encouraged to undergo regular check-ups, especially if they experience symptoms like irregular cycles, weight gain, or infertility.

🔹 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can PCOS be cured?

No, PCOS cannot be completely cured but it can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes and medical treatments.

2. Does PCOS always cause infertility?

Not always. Many women with PCOS can conceive naturally, while others may need fertility assistance.

3. Is PCOS linked with diabetes?

Yes, PCOS increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes due to insulin resistance.

4. Can weight loss improve PCOS symptoms?

Yes, even a 5-10% weight reduction can improve menstrual regularity and hormone balance.

🔹 References

• World Health Organization – Infertility
• Mayo Clinic – PCOS Overview
• NIH – Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Review

🔹 Disclaimer

This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of PCOS or any health condition.