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!