PCOS is a common hormonal disorder affecting millions of women worldwide. Still, not everyone knows the symptoms and long-term complications and how it can be managed. As per WHO report, PCOS affects 8-13% of women of reproductive age. Not only that, up to 70% of affected women remain undiagnosed worldwide. With the lack of awareness and delay in diagnosis, women may find themselves stuck in physical, mental, and psychological torment. Not only that, you can feel those judgmental eyes on you when you throw away negative pregnancy results, as, in most cases, it directly affects your fertility. If you are the one who is diagnosed with PCOS or is experiencing its symptoms, you are at the right place. From covering PCOS causes, symptoms & treatment options to finding the best gynaecologist in Mumbai, this blog entails all about this common health issue in females, so let’s start!
What is PCOS?
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is identified to be a hormonal imbalance that is characterized by excessive production of androgens (male hormones) by the ovaries. This imbalance usually leads to irregular menstrual cycles, missed periods, and unpredictable ovulation. Although PCOS may involve ovarian cysts, they’re not always present, and they’re typically harmless.
Moreover, PCOS is one of the common causes of infertility in women. It can also increase the risk of other health conditions. Your doctor can treat and manage PCOS symptoms if you wish to get pregnant.
What are the Common Symptoms of PCOS?
The common symptoms of PCOS include:
- Irregular periods involve missing periods, no periods at all or heavy bleeding during periods.
- Acne: PCOS causes acne, specifically on the back, chest, and face, and it is difficult to treat.
- Abnormal hair growth: You may have noticed unusual hair growth in your face, arms, chest and other body parts.
- Obesity: 40-80% of people with PCOS have obesity and trouble maintaining a balanced BMI.
- Darkening of the skin: You may get patches of dark skin, especially in the folds of your neck, armpits, groin, and under your breasts.
- Cysts: Most people with PCOS have too many follicles in their ovaries
- Skin Tags: These are little flaps of extra skin. They are often found in your armpits or on your neck.
- Thinning Hair: Women with PCOS may start losing patches of hair and become bald.
- Infertility: Not ovulating regularly due to PCOS can lead to infertility in most of the women’s
What are the Causes of PCOS?
The exact cause of PCOS is still under research. The factors too that can lead to PCOS are:
- Presence of higher levels of male hormones called androgens in female
- Low-grade inflammation
- Insulin resistance
- Obesity
- Heredity factors.
What Treatments Are Available For PCOS?
As PCOS symptoms can vary from patient to patient. It is important to consult a gynecologist near me to determine which treatment works best for you!
Non-Surgical Options
Standard Therapies
- Oral Contraceptives
- Mild oral antibiotics- Helps to treat PCOD/PCOS acne
- Anti-androgens block the effect of androgens and reduce scalp hair loss and excess hair growth.
- Infertility treatments.
Lifestyle Modification
- Diet: Eating fewer carbs can help balance insulin levels. It’s best to add fruits, veggies, and whole grains to your diet instead of carbs.
- Weight Management: Losing weight can lower insulin and androgen levels, possibly restoring ovulation. It’s important for patients to join weight loss programs and consult dieticians regularly to reach their desired goals. Daily exercise helps manage weight, lower cholesterol, and reduce blood sugar to prevent diabetes and heart disease.
Surgical Options for Managing PCOS
Laparoscopic Ovarian Drilling
It is a rarely performed surgical approach performed in women with PCOD/ PCOS to trigger ovulation. It is performed when non-surgical methods have failed to bring out successful results.
In ovarian drilling, a small incision is made near the belly button to insert a tube, which inflates the abdomen. A laparoscope is then inserted to examine the ovarian cysts. Surgical tools are then used to puncture the cysts, reducing high androgen levels. It helps to regulate ovulation, and improve chances of fertility in women with PCOS.
Plan your treatment, and consult with the best gynaecologist today!
PCOS is a common hormonal disorder that affects your menstrual cycle and causes other symptoms. If you suspect you are dealing with PCOS or anyone you know, it is a must to talk to a gynaecologist!
One can consult Dr. Chaitali Mahajan Trivedi. With over two decades of experience, she is an expert when it comes to treating women suffering from PCOS. She has successfully treated thousands of women and made them regain their lost self-confidence. She is also renowned as the best cosmetic gynaecologist in Mumbai and has expertise in performing hymenoplasty, labiaplasty, vaginatl tightening and other procedures.
To know more on PCOS treatment, you can consult her at Nanavati Superspeciality Hospital today!
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