PCOS-Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal disorder causing enlargement of ovaries and the formation of small cysts at the edges of the ovaries.
What are the Causes of PCOS?
The exact cause of PCOS is not known, but the following factors may cause PCOS.
Genetic- Shreds of evidence show that PCOS runs in families.
Environmental- lifestyle changes like obesity and sedentary lifestyle
Insulin resistance- This means their cells can’t use insulin.
Obesity- Obesity is the primary cause of PCOS.
Androgen- High levels of androgen in the blood cause PCOS.
Inflammation- Low grade inflammation can cause PCOS.
What are The Symptoms of PCOS
- Irregular or no periods at all
- Irregular or no periods at all
- Weight gain
- Acne
- Hairfall
- Hair growth at unwanted places like the chin
- Infertility
- Sleep apnea
- Depression
- Endometrial cancer
How Is PCOS Diagnosed?
To confirm the diagnosis of PCOS, the doctor ensure you have the following symptoms:
- High androgen levels
- Irregular periods
- Cysts in the ovaries
The Standard diagnostic tests employed in the diagnosis of PCOS are:
- BLOOD TESTS
- PELVIC EXAM
- ULTRASOUND
What is The Treatment of PCOS?
It mainly aims at
- Lifestyle modification- 2 to10% weight reduction and reducing the intake of carbohydrates can restore regular periods.
- Medications will regularise periods, birth control pills, progestin therapy, diabetic drugs like metformin.
- Surgery- Drilling of ovaries and creating small holes using a laser or tiny needles can restore ovulation.
Long Term Complication of PCOS are
PCOS patients can develop diabetes mellitus, heart disease, high cholesterol levels, and hypertension later in life.
