Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Commonly known as PCOS, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a common hormonal disorder affecting 1 in 5 women in India, particularly those of reproductive age. It is marked by high levels of male hormones, leading to a chronic hormonal imbalance. This imbalance can cause irregular periods, acne, weight gain, and potential fertility issues. Additionally, PCOS is characterized by small cysts on the ovaries, which produce estrogen and progesterone. A study shows that around 70% of women with PCOS go undiagnosed due to limited awareness, making it difficult for many to recognize and manage the symptoms.

You will be surprised to know that along with the above-mentioned hormones, the ovaries also produce the male hormone androgen in limited quantities. However, in women suffering from PCOS, these are produced in abundance which results in evident symptoms that include facial hair growth, acne, and weight gain. The best gynaecologists in Mumbai

PCOS Symptoms

PCOS as a cluster of symptoms that affect the ovaries and the normal process of ovulation giving rise to various symptoms like:

• Irregular periods - Since PCOS affects the process of ovulation, it prevents the uterine lining from shedding normally. This results in an unusual delay in normal mensuration and such women get less than 8 periods annually.
• Heavy menstrual bleeding - Women suffering from PCOS tend to experience very heavy flow during their mensuration.
• Unwanted hair growth - This is one of the most common PCOS symptoms experienced by more than 70 percent of women suffering from PCOS. This includes excessive hair growth on the face, chest, belly, etc.
• Acne - Excessive presence of male hormones can make the skin oilier, thereby triggering acne breakout. These can be seen on the face, chest, upper back, and shoulders.
• Excessive weight gain - PCOD is marked by an increased tendency to gain weight. The best doctors in India suggest that more than 80 percent of females having PCOD are either obese or overweight.
• Hair and scalp-relatedproblems - Studies have shown that women suffering from PCOS tend to experience increased hair loss and excessive dandruff.
• Darkening of skin - PCOS is marked by the development of dark skin patches in different creases of the body i.e. on the neck, around the groin, and the breasts.
• Persistent headache - Hormonal imbalance can trigger frequent headaches in some women.

PCOS Causes

The exact causes of PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) aren’t fully understood, but several factors are thought to contribute:

1. Hormonal Imbalance: Excess androgen (male hormone) levels disrupt the normal functioning of the ovaries, affecting ovulation.

2. Insulin Resistance: Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which means their bodies struggle to use insulin effectively, leading to increased insulin levels that can stimulate androgen production.

3. Genetics: PCOS often runs in families, suggesting a genetic component.

4. Inflammation: Low-grade inflammation can lead to higher androgen production, worsening PCOS symptoms.

5. Lifestyle Factors: Poor diet, lack of exercise, and high-stress levels can contribute to PCOS symptoms or worsen its impact.

Also Read About Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Complications and Treatment

PCOS Treatment

1. Lifestyle Changes: Adopting regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage insulin levels and reduce symptoms.
2. Hormonal Therapy: Hormonal therapies, like contraceptives, can help regulate menstrual cycles and balance hormone levels.
3. Fertility Treatments: For women looking to conceive, treatments that stimulate ovulation may be recommended.
4. Anti-Androgen Therapy: Certain therapies can help manage symptoms like excessive hair growth and acne.
5. Surgical Options: In some cases, minimally invasive procedures on the ovaries may be performed to manage hormone levels.

PCOS Prevention

While genetic and hormonal factors make complete prevention difficult, a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk and severity of PCOS symptoms. Engaging in regular exercise, eating a balanced, low-sugar diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing stress levels are effective preventive steps.

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Also Read About PCOD vs PCOS

Complications Triggered by PCOS

If the hormonal balance of your body gets disturbed, it is likely to give rise to various complications. These include:

• Infertility - Normal ovulation is extremely important for a healthy pregnancy and women who don’t ovulate regularly are not able to release eggs properly. This can give rise to reproductive complications and even infertility.
• Metabolic disorders - As mentioned earlier, women having PCOS have an increased tendency to gain weight. This is a result of the unhealthy metabolic changes in the body which can also lead to increased blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and blood pressure along with the increased risks of various heart related diseases.
• Sleep-related problems - Increased tendency to gain weight can also give rise to sleep-related problems like sleep apnea, a condition marked by repeated pauses in breathing that interrupt sleep.
• Endometrial cancer - Decreased ovulation can lead to the build-up of an unhealthy uterine lining which can elevate the risks of endometrial cancer
• Depression - Hormonal imbalance is closely associated with mood swings and depression and the physically evident symptoms like facial hair growth, baldness, and obesity add to these.

Reviewed By

Dr. Suruchi Desai (Sr Consultant - Obstetrics & Gynaecology)

Dr. Suruchi Desai is a Senior Consultant, in Obstetrics & Gynaecology with an experience of over 23 years. She has completed her DGO  and DNB from LTMMC, Sion, and FCPS - Mid. & Gynae from College of physicians and Surgeons Mumbai. Dr. Suruchi Desai specializes in High-Risk Obstetric surgeries and Reproductive Endocrinologists (Infertility).