PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is a common hormone disorder that affects women during their reproductive years. Some key facts about PCOS:

  • It affects up to 10% of women of childbearing age.
  • It is characterized by high levels of androgens (male hormones) like testosterone.
  • It often causes ovarian cysts (fluid-filled sacs) in the ovaries.
  • Common signs and symptoms include irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, weight gain, infertility, etc.

The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but it likely involves a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some theories are:

  • Insulin resistance - Elevated insulin levels affect ovulation and androgen production, contributing to PCOS symptoms. Losing weight can improve insulin sensitivity.
  • Inflammation - Chronic low-grade inflammation may contribute to elevated androgen levels. An anti-inflammatory diet may help.
  • Heredity - PCOS tends to run in families, so genes likely play a role.

Now, you may wonder how doctors diagnose PCOS. Well, there's no single definitive test. Doctors typically evaluate signs/symptoms, medical history, physical exam, and blood tests.

To be diagnosed with PCOS, patients usually have at least two of the following (as per the Rotterdam criteria):

  • Irregular or absent menstrual periods
  • Excess androgen levels - either clinical signs or a blood test
  • Polycystic ovaries - visible on an ultrasound exam

While there's no cure for PCOS, treatment focuses on managing individual symptoms. Common treatment options include:

  • Lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, and sleep to promote weight loss and reduce inflammation.
  • Birth control pills to regulate menstrual cycles.
  • Fertility medications like clomiphene to induce ovulation for those trying to conceive.

The bottom line is that PCOS is a manageable condition. Working closely with your doctor at Vitality Clinic to address hormone imbalances, insulin resistance, inflammation, etc., goes a long way in dealing with this. Patience and persistence with treatment are key!

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