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One in ten women has polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects approximately 10% of women of reproductive age, making it one of the most common endocrine disorders. It is caused by a hormonal imbalance that disrupts regular ovulation and leads to various symptoms and long-term complications.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but it appears to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

  •  Increased Androgen Production: Elevated levels of male hormones interfere with ovulation, resulting in irregular menstrual cycles.
  • Insulin Resistance: Cells respond poorly to insulin, leading to higher insulin levels, which stimulate androgen production.
  • Genetic Predisposition: A family history of PCOS or type 2 diabetes increases the likelihood of developing the condition.

 

Symptoms of PCOS

Symptoms can vary from woman to woman, but the most common include:

  • Infertility: Difficulty conceiving due to irregular or infrequent ovulation.
  • Excessive Hair Growth (Hirsutism): Unwanted hair on the face and body.
  • Acne: Persistent acne due to elevated androgen levels.
  • Weight Gain: Common in women with insulin resistance.
  • Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Infrequent or absent periods.

Diagnosis of PCOS

Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical, hormonal, and imaging findings:

  1. Medical History: Assessing the frequency and regularity of ovulation.
  2. Blood Tests: Measuring hormone levels, such as androgens, estrogens, and progesterone.
  3. Ultrasound: Imaging of the ovaries to detect multiple follicles.
  4. Physical Examination: Evaluating hair growth, acne, and body weight.

Long-Term Complications

PCOS is associated with several serious long-term conditions, including:

  • Type 2 Diabetes: Increased risk due to insulin resistance.
  • Cardiovascular Diseases: High blood pressure and dyslipidemia.
  • Endometrial Cancer: Due to prolonged exposure to estrogen without the protective effect of progesterone.

Treatment of PCOS

There is no cure for PCOS, but symptoms can be effectively managed:

  1. Lifestyle Modifications:
    • Balanced diet and regular exercise to manage weight and improve insulin sensitivity.
  2. Medications:
    • For Infertility:
      • Clomiphene Citrate and Letrozole: First-line medications for ovulation induction.
      • Injectable Medications: For patients who do not respond to oral medications.
      • Metformin: Helps manage insulin resistance and supports fertility treatments.
    • For Excess Hair Growth and Acne: Anti-androgen medications and oral contraceptives.
  3. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF):
    • Recommended in severe cases of PCOS or when other fertility treatments are unsuccessful.

Our Commitment

At our clinic, we provide personalized care for managing PCOS, focusing on symptom relief, improving fertility, and preventing long-term complications.