Women's Reproductive Health : Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS is a hormonal disorder that typically arises during a woman's reproductive years. This condition can disrupt your menstrual cycle, leading to infrequent periods or prolonged bleeding. PCOS often involves elevated levels of androgens, also known as male hormones.

One hallmark of PCOS is the development of numerous small fluid-filled sacs, called cysts, on the ovaries. These cysts contain immature eggs (follicles) that fail to release regularly, potentially contributing to fertility challenges.

Even though the precise cause of PCOS is unclear, timely diagnosis and treatment, paired with weight management, can significantly lower the likelihood of long-term complications such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular issues.

Recognizing the Signs of PCOS

Symptoms of PCOS often emerge around the time of a young woman's first menstrual period, although they can sometimes develop later, even after experiencing regular periods for a while. It's important to note that PCOS symptoms can be more pronounced in individuals with obesity. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended for evaluation and appropriate management:

• Irregular Menstrual Cycles: This can include infrequent periods (fewer than nine per year), irregular cycles (periods occurring more than 35 days apart), prolonged menstrual bleeding, or difficulty conceiving.
• Elevated Androgen Levels: High levels of male hormones (androgens) can lead to excess facial and body hair (hirsutism), severe acne, and even male-pattern baldness.
• Polycystic Ovaries: Your ovaries may be enlarged, with multiple small follicles containing immature eggs forming along the outer edge. These ovaries may not function optimally, affecting ovulation.

Understanding the Roots of PCOS

The precise cause of PCOS remains a mystery, but several factors are thought to contribute to its development:

• Insulin Resistance: This condition impairs the body's ability to use insulin effectively, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. In response, the body produces more insulin, triggering excess androgen production and disrupting ovulation. Signs of insulin resistance include dark, velvety patches of skin and increased appetite or weight gain.
• Low-Grade Inflammation: Research suggests that women with PCOS experience a chronic, low-level inflammation that stimulates the ovaries to produce more androgens. This inflammation might contribute to heart and blood vessel issues.
• Heredity: Studies indicate a possible genetic link to PCOS. Having a family history of the condition might increase your susceptibility.
• Excess Androgen: in this case, the ovaries of women may produce abnormally high levels of androgens, interfering with ovulation and potentially leading to hirsutism and acne.

Potential Complications of PCOS

PCOS can lead to various complications, impacting both physical and mental health. Some of these complications include:

• Infertility
• Pregnancy Complications
• Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH)
• Metabolic Syndrome
• Type 2 Diabetes or Prediabetes
• Sleep Apnea
• Mental Health Concerns
• Endometrial Cancer

Diagnosing PCOS at Sterling Hospital

Our healthcare providers will begin by discussing your symptoms, medical history, and medications. They will also inquire about your menstrual cycle and any weight changes. A physical exam may include checking for excess hair growth, insulin resistance, and acne.

Based on your initial assessment, your doctor might suggest the following:

• Pelvic Exam: This examination helps evaluate your reproductive organs for any abnormalities.
• Blood Tests: These measure hormone levels to rule out other conditions that mimic PCOS and may include additional tests for cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose tolerance.
• Ultrasound: A transvaginal ultrasound can visualize your ovaries and uterus lining, aiding in identifying cysts and other potential issues.
  

If a PCOS diagnosis is confirmed, further tests might be recommended to screen for related complications, such as:

• Regular Monitoring: Regular checks of blood pressure, glucose tolerance, and cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
• Mental Health Screening: Assessments for depression and anxiety.
• Sleep Apnea Screening: To identify potential breathing difficulties during sleep.

Treatment for PCOS at Sterling Hospital

The approach to PCOS treatment focuses on addressing your individual concerns, such as infertility, hirsutism, acne, or obesity. Treatment plans may include lifestyle changes and/or medication.

Lifestyle Changes

• Weight Management: Your doctor may recommend weight loss through a balanced diet and regular exercise. Even a small reduction in weight can improve your condition, enhance medication effectiveness, and boost fertility. Our team of healthcare professionals and registered dietitians will collaborate with you to develop a personalized weight-loss plan.

Medication

To regulate your menstrual cycles, your doctor might suggest:

• Combination Birth Control Pills: These pills help manage hormone levels, reducing androgen production and regulating estrogen. This can lower the risk of endometrial cancer and improve irregular bleeding, excess hair growth, and acne.
• Progestin Therapy: Taking progestin for a short period every 1-2 months can regulate your periods and protect against endometrial cancer, but it doesn't address androgen levels or prevent pregnancy.
  

For those seeking pregnancy, the following medications might be recommended:

• Clomiphene: This oral medication stimulates ovulation.
• Letrozole (Femara): This breast cancer drug can also be used to induce ovulation.
• Metformin: This diabetes medication improves insulin resistance and may help with ovulation, particularly when combined with clomiphene. It can also help slow the progression to type 2 diabetes and assist with weight management in those with prediabetes.
• Gonadotropins: These injectable hormone medications stimulate ovulation.

Discuss procedures like in vitro fertilization (IVF) with your doctor to aid in conception.

To address excessive hair growth or acne, your doctor may recommend:

• Birth Control Pills: They can decrease androgen production, improving these symptoms.
• Spironolactone (Aldactone): This medication blocks androgen's effects on the skin, reducing hair growth and acne. However, it requires effective birth control due to potential birth defects and isn't recommended during pregnancy or when planning pregnancy.
• Eflornithine (Vaniqa): This cream slows facial hair growth.
• Hair Removal: Options include electrolysis, laser hair removal, shaving, plucking, or depilatory creams, though these offer temporary solutions.
• Acne Treatments: Medications, including pills and topical creams or gels, can help manage acne.

Sterling Hospital is Your Partner in Health Across Gujarat

At Sterling Hospital, our team of experienced gynecologists and endocrinologists is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for women with PCOS. We offer a range of diagnostic and treatment options to help manage symptoms, address fertility concerns, and improve overall health and well-being.

We provide you with the utmost care and comfort throughout your journey to a healthier and brighter life. We've got you if you are looking for the best gynecologists in Ahmedabad-Gurukul, Ahmedabad-Sindhu Bhavan, Vadodara-Bhayli, Vadodara-Race Course Road, Rajkot, or Gandhidham. With considerable years of experience, we have built a team of the best gynae doctors in these regions to provide you with premium treatment and the best results. Contact Sterling Hospital to schedule a consultation and embark on a journey towards a healthier future.