PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is a common endocrine system disorder that affects approximately 5-10% of women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS often experience irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels, and small cysts on their ovaries. While the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, it is thought to be related to insulin resistance and genetics.
Some of the key signs and symptoms of PCOS include:
PCOS is associated with several health complications:
| Complication | Description |
|---|---|
| Infertility | Due to irregular ovulation, women with PCOS often struggle with getting pregnant. PCOS is one of the leading causes of female infertility. |
| Metabolic syndrome | Up to 80% of women with PCOS are either overweight or obese. This puts them at higher risk of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. |
| Endometrial cancer | The excess estrogen levels in women with PCOS increases their risk of endometrial cancer. |
| Depression and anxiety | The symptoms and emotional stress of living with PCOS may trigger mental health issues. |
Diagnosis of PCOS usually involves a pelvic exam, blood tests to measure hormone levels, and an ultrasound of the ovaries. Blood tests will look for elevated levels of androgens like testosterone as well as prolactin, thyroid hormone, and 17-hydroxyprogesterone. An ultrasound would show the enlarged ovaries with small cysts.
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing long-term complications. Lifestyle changes like weight loss, diet, and exercise can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels. Your doctor may prescribe metformin to improve insulin sensitivity or birth control pills to regulate hormones.
For fertility issues, medications like clomiphene may be used to induce ovulation. Procedures like ovarian drilling can also help stimulate ovulation in PCOS patients. In severe cases, IVF may be required.
| Treatment | Description |
|---|---|
| Lifestyle changes | Weight loss, diet, and exercise can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels. |
| Medications | Metformin to improve insulin sensitivity or birth control pills to regulate hormones. |
| Fertility treatments | Clomiphene to induce ovulation, ovarian drilling to stimulate ovulation, or IVF in severe cases. |
At Balance Clinic, we understand the emotional toll PCOS can take on women. Our compassionate endocrinologists provide individualized treatment plans, hormone balancing medications, and lifestyle coaching to help women take control of PCOS and improve their quality of life. We offer cutting-edge therapies and a holistic approach focused on your unique needs.
In summary, PCOS is a complex disorder caused by hormone imbalances and insulin resistance that leads to menstrual irregularities, excess androgen, small ovarian cysts, and difficulty getting pregnant. Proper diagnosis and early treatment are important to alleviate symptoms, boost fertility, and prevent long-term health complications. Lifestyle changes and medications can help manage PCOS. For personalized care from reproduction specialists, consider contacting Balance Clinic.