Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a medical condition that affects almost 10-15% of women of childbearing age. Women with PCOS experience hormonal imbalance and metabolism problems that affects general health and external appearance. PCOS is also a common and treatable cause of infertility.
In a normal woman, Ovaries produce and release an egg every month as part of a normal menstrual cycle. In the case of women diagnosed with PCOS, the egg may not develop properly and not be released during ovulation as it should be. PCOS is characterized by an irregular menstrual cycle or prolonged cycles. If timely treatment is not initiated may end up with infertility with other serious medical problems like diabetes, hypertension or heart disease. Fortunately, modern medicine offers tailor-made treatment for women suffering from PCOS.
How is PCOS diagnosed:
- Irregular mensural cycles, prolonged cycles, excessive bleeding
- Excessive male hormones (oily skin, excessive hair, pimples, achene, etc.)
- Ultrasonography image evidence
- Blood tests.
- Weight gain.
Why an increase in PCOS cases:
- Sedentary life style
- Stress
- Unhealthy nutrition
- Irregular sleep patterns are few of the reasons for increase in PCOS cases
Impact of PCOS:
Short term adverse health effects of PCOS are irregular menstrual cycles, excessive male pattern hair growth, balding & subfertility. The long-term ill effects of PCOS are mainly due to obesity and insulin resistance. 60-70% of women with PCOS are obese, 50% of the women with PCOS are at increase risk of developing diabetes/pre-diabetes before the age of 40 years. They are at increased risk of developing heart disease, stroke, obstructive sleep apnea. The one with PCOS are also at higher risk of developing depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. Those women who have infrequent menstrual cycles are at increased risk of developing pre-cancer/cancer of the lining of the womb.
Management:
Management of PCOS is multi-disciplinary where in OBG-GYN, Skin Specialists, Dieticians, Cosmetologist, Yoga-Exercise specialist are part of the team who will work on patients and produce positive results. It is also important to realize that, you are not the only one who is suffering from PCOS. Healthy life style, diet, exercise, reducing weight will help to lead a healthy life in those with PCOS. You can lead a full, healthy life if PCOS is well managed. Never ignore the symptoms of PCOS initiate early treatment by consulting your doctor.
