Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common health problem that can affect teenage girls and women. It seems to be related to lifestyle changes and is more common in urban than rural areas. However, nowadays it is seen in both the affluent as well as the lower middle class population too. It is basically caused by an imbalance in hormones, resulting in irregular cycles, signs and symptoms of hyperandrogenaemia (an excess of male hormones in the body) along with weight fluctuations. If not treated or looked into on time it can result in problems related to fertility as well as other metabolic issues.
Signs to look for
Women with PCOS are more likely to have infertility, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), acne, obesity, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure or high cholesterol. A key sign of PCOS is irregular or missed periods. Often there is also darkened, thickened skin around the neck, armpits or breasts; this is called acanthosis nigricans, a sign of insulin resistance, again commonly seen in patients with PCOS.
Diagnosis
After a thorough medical history and investigation along with a physical examination, which includes checking your weight, checking for physical signs such as acne, hair growth and darkened skin, and a gynaecological examination to rule out other possible causes, a diagnosis is reached and treatment started.
Treatment
Weight loss and lifestyle changes for the obese PCOS patient can be very effective in lessening many of the health conditions associated with PCOS, causing many of the symptoms to disappear or become less severe. Along with this, hormonal medicines are also often prescribed to take care of the insulin resistance, irregular cycles and hirsutism.
The good news is that, although there is no cure for PCOS, it can be treated. The most important step is diagnosing the condition, treating and maintaining it, because getting treatment for PCOS reduces a woman's chances of serious side effects, abnormal bleeding from the uterus, cancer and other metabolic issues.
