Understanding PCOS: Symptoms and Management
Introduction
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a cluster of signs that result from hormonal imbalances in a woman’s body, primarily impacting the ovaries. These are the tiny structures responsible for storing a woman’s eggs. However, it can also have broader effects throughout the body. PCOS is quite prevalent among women who are capable of reproductive age. In certain instances, if left untreated, it can result in significant health problems. An exclusive clinic for women of all age groups, FENS Prana Sakhi by Prameya Health is a comprehensive health provider housing consultants of repute in various specialities.
Why does PCOS occur?
There’s no definitive answer to this question. A lot of women diagnosed with PCOS struggle with insulin resistance, which is when the body fails to process insulin efficiently. This leads to elevated insulin concentrations in the body, potentially resulting in increased levels of androgens. Being overweight can also raise insulin levels and exacerbate the symptoms of PCOS.
Symptoms
PCOS often manifest more intensely in overweight women.
Frequent symptoms involve:
- Lack of menstrual periods or irregular menstrual cycles
- Excessive hair growth, particularly on the face
- Thinning hair on the scalp
- Acne breakouts
- Emotional shifts
- Difficulty sleeping
- Problems with getting pregnant
- Feeling down or depressed
- Gaining weight
- Tiredness
What steps are involved in diagnosing PCOS?
Your doctor will inquire about your medical history and any symptoms you’re experiencing. Additionally, you’ll undergo a physical examination, which may encompass a pelvic exam. This procedure evaluates the condition of your reproductive organs, both internally and externally.
Symptoms of PCOS can mimic those of other medical conditions, leading to further diagnostic tests, such as:
- Ultrasound: This procedure employs sound waves and a computer to generate images of blood vessels, tissues, and organs- It’s used to measure the dimensions of the ovaries and identify any cysts, in addition to evaluating the thickness of the uterus’s wall (endometrium).
- Blood tests: These are conducted to measure elevated levels of androgens and other hormones. Your doctor might also test your blood sugar levels and evaluate your cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
What are the methods for managing/treating PCOS?
The method of managing PCOS differs depending on various elements. These factors might encompass your age, the intensity of your symptoms, and your general health status. Additionally, the choice of treatment might be influenced by your desire to conceive in the future.
Should you wish to try to conceive, your treatment plan might include:
Modifications to your diet and workout schedule. Adopting a nutritious diet and engaging in regular exercise can aid in weight loss, diminish symptoms, and improve insulin sensitivity. This, in turn, can lower blood sugar levels and facilitate ovulation.
Injections to stimulate ovulation. Injections can assist the ovaries in releasing eggs naturally. However, these treatments carry certain risks. They might increase the likelihood of having multiple pregnancies (such as twins or more). Moreover, they could lead to ovarian hyper stimulation. This condition occurs when the ovaries produce excess hormones, resulting in symptoms like abdominal distension and pain in the pelvic area.
If you're not planning to get pregnant, your treatment could involve:
Hormonal contraceptives. These medications help regulate your menstrual periods, decrease levels of male hormones, and decrease acne.
Drugs for diabetes. These are frequently prescribed to decrease resistance to insulin in PCOS. They might also assist in lowering male hormone levels, slowing down hair growth, and improving the regularity of ovulation.
Drugs for additional symptoms. Certain medications can reduce hair growth or acne.
Conclusion
Managing PCOS requires a holistic approach, including lifestyle changes, proper nutrition, regular exercise, and medical support. Early diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan can alleviate symptoms, improve quality of life, and reduce the risk of complications, empowering women to live healthier lives.
Consult, FENS Prana Sakhi of Prameya Health which specializes in preventive health, addressing both the medical and emotional needs of women of all ages, offering expert consultations and treatments led by senior doctors, including Naturopathy, Ayurveda, Yoga, and Acupressure.