What is PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or PCOS is a medical condition in women that affects their hormones. As a result of hormonal imbalance, it can cause irregular periods, unwanted facial hair and acne, and increases the risk of infertility. PCOS is common in women in their 20s & 30s and affects about 1 in every 10 women (who are childbearing age). Polycystic ovary syndrome is not primarily associated with cyst formation in the ovaries. Women may show signs and symptoms of PCOS without having cysts, which can go undetected until proper diagnosis. Get comprehensive management of PCOS with some of our best gynecologists in Gurgaon.
What Are The Symptoms Of PCOS?
PCOS is a lifestyle condition with symptoms varying from one individual to another. It is possible that women with polycystic ovary syndrome may not have any apparent symptoms. Initial signs in women include excess body and facial hair, acne, infrequent or too-long periods, etc. Some of these signs can indicate other medical conditions in women and therefore should be investigated. Common signs and symptoms of PCOS include:
Hormonal imbalance causes infrequent periods due to lack of ovulation.
Excess facial and body hair
PCOS can lead to hirsutism which causes unwanted hair growth in places like the face, chest, belly, arms, etc.
Women with PCOS symptoms often get oily skin. This is due to the excess production of androgen.
The uterine lining builds up for a long time due to irregular periods. When it finally sheds, it causes heavy bleeding.
Weight gain around the abdomen area is common in most women.
Dark patches of skin (acanthosis nigricans) may develop in areas around the neck, groin, and under the breast.
Hair thinning is another common warning sign in women with prolonged PCOS.
PCOS can increase emotional disturbances and mood swings causing anxiety, sleep problems, and in severe cases depression.
Women with PCOS can be diagnosed with multiple cysts visible during ultrasound.
What Causes Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?
PCOS is a result of hormonal imbalances, typically during reproductive years which can lead to cyst formation. These cysts increase androgen amounts in women causing problems with menstrual cycles and other PCOS symptoms. However, the exact cause of PCOS is not known. However, certain risk factors can contribute to the progression of the condition. Risk factors associated with PCOS include -
How Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Diagnosed?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) symptoms may not be evident until diagnosed. Sometimes, symptoms of PCOS can be due to other medical conditions and can be detected after a comprehensive diagnosis and regular consultations with the gynecologist.
It is important to discuss your medical history with the gynecologist to understand the severity and effect of PCOS on the body. The doctor may suggest the following diagnostic tests to confirm PCOS or the presence of cysts -
Discussion With The Doctor
The doctor will ask about the irregularity of periods (if any), along with the history of medications, lifestyle habits, dietary intake, etc. to assess the risk factors associated with high androgen levels.
It involves investigating excess facial hair, hair loss, acne discolored skin, etc.
Blood tests are done to check the hormone and glucose levels.
This test helps the doctor determine the thickness of the uterine lining in the ovaries by generating an image of the female pelvis.
What Are Treatment Options For PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome)?
There is no permanent treatment for PCOS. The gynecologist usually recommends lifestyle modifications and certain medications to prevent PCOS symptoms from getting worse. In most cases, PCOS can be a lifelong condition that can affect the quality of life. Here are some treatment options to manage PCOS -
The gynecologist recommends lifestyle changes or prescribes medications based on your symptoms. Medications such as acne and hormone control medicines, androgen blockers, and insulin-sensitizing medicines are effective in managing mild to moderate PCOS symptoms. Please note that medications must be taken after consulting the doctor, especially for women planning to conceive.
Certain dietary changes and maintaining a healthy body weight are crucial aspects of PCOS treatment. The doctor may recommend regular exercise, stress management, controlling blood sugar levels, etc. to reduce the risks associated with PCOS.
Surgical intervention is usually effective for PCOS treatment if the medications and other non-surgical methods do not respond to the symptoms. When the symptoms of PCOS are severe, affecting the lifestyle of the individual adversely, surgery becomes inevitable. The surgical method for PCOS treatment is usually done via laparoscopic ovarian drilling (LOD) to restore ovulation cycles.
How Can I Prevent PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome cannot be prevented once it is diagnosed. Some women may struggle with physical symptoms of PCOS which can immensely impact their mental state and quality of life. Prevention for PCOS includes lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, yoga, meditation, maintaining a healthy weight, etc. along with dietary restrictions. Regular doctor consultations can increase the chances of detecting PCOS in its early stages.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) And Pregnancy:
PCOS affects hormones in women which can significantly impact fertility. While many women with PCOS can conceive and have normal pregnancies despite having PCOS, there can still be challenges and risks of complications. PCOS affects fertility in women due to inconsistent ovulation, and elevated levels of androgens which can interfere with the growth of healthy eggs. PCOS treatment for women planning to get pregnant usually includes the following -
If women with PCOS are planning to conceive or become pregnant, the doctor may prepare a comprehensive care plan for PCOS treatment. This includes drugs to induce ovulation for a successful pregnancy.
The gynecologist may recommend surgery to help restore ovulation by eliminating tissues in the ovaries that produce androgen.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
In case the medications are ineffective with ovulation, doctors may recommend the IVF technique to increase the chances of pregnancy. In IVF, the egg from the female is fertilized with the partner’s sperm in a lab before transferring it to the uterus.
Get In Touch With Artemis Hospitals For the Best PCOS Treatment in Gurgaon
PCOS is a serious condition that impacts the quality of life in women. It increases androgen levels and can progress the formation of ovarian cysts. If untreated, it can impact fertility in women. Polycystic ovary syndrome treatment involves a combination of medications, lifestyle changes, and dietary restrictions. PCOS symptoms can impact everyday lifestyle causing sleeping problems and affect mental health. Therefore, it is important to go for regular health checkups and keep in touch with the doctor for early intervention.
Our gynecologists provide personalized care to each patient with PCOS symptoms to reduce the risk of further complications including infertility. Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon has some of the best gynecologists in India for PCOS treatment and management with excellent records.
For expert care, call us today at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91-959-928-5476. You can also easily schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices. Your health is our priority—let us help you take the next step toward healing.
FAQs
What age does PCOS start?
PCOS in women usually begins after puberty during their childbearing age. However, some women may encounter PCOS in later stages of life depending on their diet, lifestyle, and amount of physical activity.
How common is PCOS?
PCOS is very common in women in their 20s and 30s. According to the data, 1 in every 10 women are at risk of having PCOS. Encourage regular doctor consultations to help detect and manage PCOS symptoms in the early stage.
Does PCOS affect fertility?
Yes, undiagnosed PCOS symptoms can have long-term health complications and increase the risk of infertility in women. However, infertility due to PCOS can vary from one woman to another and must be diagnosed in the early stages.
What is the difference between Endometriosis and PCOS?
Endometriosis refers to the growth of uterine tissue outside the uterus. PCOS is a hormonal disorder due to androgens which causes irregular periods, heavy bleeding, unwanted hair growth, etc.
Does PCOS ever go away?
No, PCOS symptoms do not go away. However, mild to moderate symptoms can be managed with medications, lifestyle changes, and dietary restrictions. Get in touch with the gynecologist for comprehensive PCOS treatment and symptom management.
Can you be in menopause and have PCOS?
Yes, it is possible to have PCOS even after your menopause. However, PCOS symptoms due to hormone changes often tend to resolve during menopause.
What is the difference between PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease)?
PCOS or polycystic ovary syndrome is a group of symptoms in women in their childbearing age. PCOD or polycystic ovarian disease is also characterized by similar symptoms but considered less severe. Prolonged PCOD develops into PCOS which is a serious disorder with long-term health implications.
Can I get pregnant if I have PCOS?
Yes, you can get pregnant if you have Polycystic ovary syndrome. Mild to moderate symptoms do not affect fertility in women and can be managed with medications and lifestyle changes. If women with PCOS are planning to conceive, the doctor may suggest fertility medications or alternatively, IVF treatment.
What hormones affect PCOS?
PCOS is caused by excessive production of hormones called androgens from the ovaries. Get in touch with Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon, to book an appointment with some of our best gynecologists in Gurgaon for PCOS treatment and management.
Are there specific foods to avoid if I have PCOS?
Women with PCOS must avoid the following foods to prevent the condition from getting worse -
Fried foods like fries, chips, chicken, etc.
Saturated fats like butter, margarine, shortening, and lard
Red meat which includes hamburgers, roast beef, steaks, and pork
Processed meats such as hot dogs, sausages, and luncheon meats
Refined carbohydrates such as white bread, pasta, pizza crust, and pastries
Sugary beverages like soda, juices, iced tea, and energy drinks
Processed snacks such as cakes, cookies, candy, and granola bars
Foods with high sodium
What are the complications associated with untreated PCOS?
Untreated PCOS can increase the risk of the following conditions -
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