PCOS – Treatment & Diagnosis

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects approximately 8% to 13% of women in the reproductive age group. Furthermore, up to 70% of women with PCOS remain undiagnosed. Therefore, understanding PCOS has become more crucial than ever.

The condition is characterised by the formation of uncountable small cysts on the ovaries when a woman doesn’t produce sufficient hormones required for ovulation. As a result, a woman can have menstrual cycle issues and other PCOS symptoms. Consequently, it causes fertility issues among women.

You might be having several questions in your mind and feeling overwhelmed. But we are here to help. This blog will help you understand the symptoms, PCOS diagnosis, and treatment options so you can manage PCOS effectively.

Symptoms of PCOS

• Women with PCOS may have fewer than nine periods a year or experience prolonged menstrual bleeding.

• It can disrupt the regular release of eggs from the ovaries, causing irregular or absent ovulation.

• High levels of androgen (male hormone) can lead to excessive facial or body hair (hirsutism).

• Increased androgen levels can lead to acne and oily skin, particularly on the face.

• Body hair can lose its smoothness, and the hair on the scalp may become thinner or more brittle.

• Weight gain, especially around the abdomen.

Diagnosing PCOS:

As mentioned above, women with PCOS can experience challenging symptoms. If the condition is left undiagnosed, it can lead to other health issues like insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. Below are the different ways for an accurate PCOS diagnosis:

1. Medical History

The first step in diagnosing PCOS involves a thorough medical history review. You will be requested to provide details about your menstrual cycles, symptoms, and family history of hormonal disorders or other ailments.

2. Physical Examination

A physical examination is necessary to assess visible symptoms like acne, hirsutism (excessive hair growth), and obesity. Your doctor will also check if there are any abnormalities, such as enlarged ovaries.
 

3. Blood Tests

Blood tests play a vital role in diagnosing PCOS. Hormone levels, including testosterone, insulin, and luteinizing hormone (LH), are measured to identify hormonal imbalances.
 

4. Ultrasound

An ultrasound of the pelvis is performed to get a clear view of the ovaries. Cysts, also known as follicles, are evaluated through an ultrasound.
 

PCOS Treatment Options:

Although no permanent cure for PCOS exists, the symptoms can be managed successfully. Besides, PCOS treatment can also help reduce the risk of developing life-long ailments such as heart disease or diabetes.

The treatment options are mentioned below:

1. Lifestyle Changes

Diet:

According to the National Library of Medicine research, PCOS can be successfully managed by following a healthy, balanced diet. For overweight women, losing weight can aid in managing PCOS.
Dietary modifications are a key approach to effectively managing PCOS. A low glycemic index (GI) diet can help keep blood sugar levels in check. 

PCOS results in insulin resistance in women. This means their bodies produce insulin sufficiently but can’t utilise it, developing type 2 diabetes in the long run. Foods such as barley, oats, quinoa, and brown rice increase blood glucose gradually, unlike high GI foods that increase insulin levels quickly.

Exercise:

Regular physical activity will assist in weight management, improve insulin sensitivity, and alleviate PCOS symptoms. Go for running, swimming, or cycling. Weight training helps lose weight, increase muscle strength, and boost metabolism. Doing yoga and pilates daily can also offer the benefits you have been looking for.

2. Medications

Doctors can prescribe medications to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels. If you are struggling with hirsutism (facial hair) or unsightly acne, these medicines can work by reducing androgen production. Metformin, a diabetes medication, is sometimes recommended to improve insulin sensitivity.

 

3. Fertility Treatment Options

PCOS may cause fertility issues in some cases. Fertility treatments like in vitro fertilisation (IVF) or ovulation induction can be viable options for women trying to conceive.

4. Surgery

Surgery is the final but rarest option. In cases where cysts become large and painful, surgery may be considered to remove them.
 

Conclusion:

Managing PCOS can seem challenging, but you can notice a huge difference with the right guidance. Since PCOS has no cure, it is natural sometimes to feel frustrated, but remember, taking proactive steps is the only way to keep PCOS under check and live a happy, fulfilling life.

If you are looking for a reputable diagnostic service provider, visit HexaMed today. Our skilled experts leverage cutting-edge equipment to perform the required tests and provide on-time, accurate reports. Avail yourself of our exclusive diagnostic package that will provide a precise evaluation of your health. You can also find experienced and well-regarded gynaecologists as per your needs for consultation here.

FAQS:

1. Are treatments available for women suffering from PCOS?

Various treatments are available to address the symptoms related to PCOS. The treatment is tailored as per the woman’s symptoms and other health problems she has. 

2. Are combined hormonal birth control pills used to treat PCOS?

Hormonal birth control pills are prescribed for women who do not desire to be pregnant. They regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce acne and hirsutism by decreasing the androgen levels.

3. What are the diagnostic tests for PCOS?

PCOS diagnosis methods include blood tests to check hormone levels, pelvic ultrasound to check for ovarian cysts, and a physical exam to check acne and excess hair growth

4. Does losing weight help in PCOS treatment?

Your physician may suggest losing weight with moderate exercises and a low-calorie diet to improve your condition.