All That You Need To Know About PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common health issue caused by the imbalance of hormones in women of reproductive age. The hormonal changes affect the normal functioning of the ovaries. PCOS thus affects your child-bearing ability, excess production of androgen (male hormones) and causes irregularity in periods. The Polycystic ovary syndrome leads to the development of high BP, diabetes, weight gain, excessive unwanted hair growth or hair thinning, and acne breakouts.

Symptoms Of PCOS

PCOS symptoms are mostly observed when a woman has her initial periods. However, a few of them discover the following signs and symptoms of PCOS when they face difficulty in conceiving or they have gained too much weight.

The common symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome are:

• Irregular periods with heavy blood flow
• Excessive unwanted hair growth (hirsutism)
• Thinning of hair
• Male-pattern baldness
• Acne breakouts
• Skin pigmentation and dark spots
• Weight gain
• Severe headaches

PCOS Diagnosis

If a woman is facing at least two of these three main symptoms - irregular periods, high androgen levels, and ovarian cysts – the doctors will diagnose PCOS. The other tests that are further recommended to confirm the diagnosis are:

• Pelvic exam
• Blood tests
• Ultrasound scan of uterus and ovaries

PCOS Treatment

PCOS is treated with a combination of medication and other therapies listed below.

• Metformin:

  Treats PCOS by regulating blood insulin levels.

• Clomiphene:

  This is a fertility drug that improves your chances of getting pregnant. However, it also increases the risk of multiple births

• Birth control pills:

  Estrogen and progestin regulate hormone balance and ovulation.

• Hair removal medicines:

  Eflornithine cream, laser hair removal, and electrolysis can use used to remove unwanted hair growth.

• Surgery:

  Ovarian drilling.

Diet And Lifestyle Tips For PCOS

• Lifestyle changes like weight loss, diet habits, and exercise is the key to PCOS management.
• PCOS diet plays an important role in its treatment. Include loads of fruits and vegetables in your diet. These foods are rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, and fiber that helps in weight reduction. This is the simplest way how to lose weight with PCOS.
• Include foods that have a lower Glycemic Index.
• Ensure you do regular physical activities to control your weight.

Diet And Lifestyle Tips For PCOS

Approximately 70 – 80 percent of women face fertility issues due to PCOS. PCOS interferes with the normal menstrual cycle and thus increases the risk of pregnancy complications.

Women with PCOS have increased risks of premature delivery and miscarriage. They also face health issues like high blood pressure and gestational diabetes.

A preventive medical checkup can be very effective in diagnosing the disorder in time. Doctors recommend lifestyle changes and medications to treat PCOS.