Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. It can cause irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, infertility, and other health problems.
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In this article, we will answer some frequently asked questions about PCOS and provide some tips on how to manage it.
What is PCOS and what causes it?
- PCOS is a condition where the ovaries produce too many androgens, which are male hormones that normally occur in small amounts in women.
- Androgens interfere with the development and release of eggs from the ovaries, leading to cysts (fluid-filled sacs) on the ovaries, irregular or absent ovulation, and menstrual cycles.
- The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but it may involve genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Some possible risk factors include obesity, insulin resistance, inflammation, and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
What are the symptoms of PCOS?
- The symptoms of PCOS vary from person to person, but some common ones include:
- Irregular, infrequent, or prolonged periods, or no periods at all
- Excess facial and body hair, especially on the chin, chest, back, and abdomen
- Acne, oily skin, and dandruff
- Thinning hair or hair loss on the scalp
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Dark patches of skin on the neck, armpits, groin, or breasts
- Skin tags, which are small, flesh-colored growths on the skin
- Anxiety, depression, or mood swings
- Reduced fertility or difficulty getting pregnant
How is PCOS diagnosed?
- There is no single test for PCOS, but a doctor may use a combination of methods to diagnose it, such as:
- Medical history, including menstrual cycle, symptoms, family history, and medications
- Physical examination, including checking for signs of excess hair growth, acne, and obesity
- Blood tests, to measure hormone levels, blood sugar, cholesterol, and other markers
- Ultrasound, to look for cysts on the ovaries or other abnormalities in the uterus or fallopian tubes
- A diagnosis of PCOS is usually made when a woman has at least two of the following criteria:
- Irregular or absent periods
- High levels of androgens or signs of excess androgen activity
- Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound
How is PCOS treated?
- There is no cure for PCOS, but the symptoms and complications can be managed with various treatments, depending on the individual’s goals and preferences. Some possible treatments include:
- Hormonal birth control pills, patches, injections, or implants, to regulate periods, lower androgen levels, and prevent pregnancy
- Anti-androgen medications, such as spironolactone or finasteride, to reduce hair growth and acne
- Metformin, a diabetes drug, to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar
- Clomiphene citrate, letrozole, or gonadotropins, fertility drugs, to stimulate ovulation and increase the chances of pregnancy
- Surgery, such as laparoscopic ovarian drilling or wedge resection, to remove or destroy parts of the ovaries that produce excess androgens
- Lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, losing weight, managing stress, and quitting smoking, to improve overall health and well-being
What are the health risks of PCOS?
- PCOS can increase the risk of developing certain long-term health problems, such as:
- Type 2 diabetes, a condition where the body cannot use insulin properly to control blood sugar
- Cardiovascular disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart attack, and stroke
- Endometrial cancer, a type of cancer that affects the lining of the uterus
- Sleep apnea, a disorder where breathing stops and starts during sleep
- Depression, anxiety, and eating disorders, which can affect mental health and quality of life
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, a condition where fat builds up in the liver and causes inflammation and damage
How can I cope with PCOS?
- Living with PCOS can be challenging, but there are some strategies that can help you cope, such as:
- Educating yourself about PCOS and staying informed about the latest research and treatments
- Seeking professional help from a doctor, a dietitian, a therapist, or other specialists who can provide guidance and support
- Joining a support group, either online or in person, where you can share your experiences and feelings with other women who have PCOS
- Practicing self-care, such as getting enough sleep, relaxing, meditating, or doing something you enjoy
- Being positive and optimistic, and focusing on your strengths and achievements rather than your flaws and failures
