Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. In this condition, the ovaries tend to make more male hormones, which lead to hormonal imbalance, irregular menstrual periods, facial hair growth and alopecia. It can cause other conditions like type 2 diabetes, obesity and even infertility without timely intervention.
Polycystic Ovarian Disorder (PCOD) is a medical condition that is caused by hormonal imbalance. In this condition, the ovaries become enlarged and produce more male hormones. It leads to ovaries releasing partially mature or immature eggs, which eventually turn into cysts. Common symptoms of PCOD are similar to PCOS, such as weight gain, irregular periods, hair loss and infertility.
Genetics
Excess insulin
Low-grade inflammation
Excess androgen
Irregular periods
Heavy bleeding
Abnormal hair growth
Weight gain
Acne
There is no test to diagnose PCOS and PCOD. Therefore, the gynaecologist will ask for symptoms and medical history for the diagnosis. They will also keep other factors into consideration, such as weight gain and irregular menstrual cycles. For further diagnosis, the doctor will perform various tests to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.
Pelvic exam: To identify any abnormality in the reproductive organs.
Blood tests: To check hormone levels, glucose tolerance and cholesterol.
Ultrasound: To check the size of ovaries and the linings of the uterus.
PCOS treatment may vary among patients and promptly focuses on managing the symptoms, such as infertility, acne or obesity. To regulate the symptoms of PCOS/PCOD, the doctor might recommend:
Lifestyle changes: The doctor may recommend weight loss through a limited diet and regular exercise. In addition to that, the patient should opt for a low-calorie diet and more fluid to manage the weight. While it helps you lose weight, but also control the complications of PCOS.
Medications: The doctor may prescribe medications to reduce the severity of PCOS symptoms. In some cases, birth control pills are prescribed to decrease male hormones and regulate oestrogen. It also reduces the risk of endometrial cancer while preventing abnormal bleeding, excess hair growth and acne. If PCOS is causing trouble in conceiving, the doctor prescribes fertility drugs. They may recommend Clomiphene or Letrozole to help in ovulating and conceiving.