PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome)
PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is a common hormonal disorder that affects women during their reproductive years. An estimated 5-10% of women have PCOS, making it one of the most prevalent endocrine disorders among women of reproductive age.
The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but it often runs in families and is associated with insulin resistance. Key signs and symptoms include:
- Irregular or absent menstrual periods - One of the hallmark signs of PCOS is irregular menstrual cycles or lack of periods. This is related to lack of ovulation.
- Excess androgen levels - Higher than normal levels of male hormones like testosterone are commonly seen in PCOS. This contributes to symptoms like excess facial and body hair growth (hirsutism) and severe acne.
- Polycystic ovaries - The ovaries develop numerous small collections of fluid called follicles that may not regularly release eggs, resulting in cysts. However, some women with PCOS have normal-looking ovaries.
PCOS increases the risk for several other conditions, including:
- Infertility - Due to lack of ovulation, PCOS is one of the most common causes of female infertility.
- Diabetes - At least half of women with PCOS develop prediabetes or type 2 diabetes by their 40s due to underlying insulin resistance.
- Metabolic syndrome - Characterized by obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugars, and abnormal cholesterol levels.
- Endometrial cancer - Lack of menstrual cycles increases the risk for abnormal overgrowth of the uterine lining, which may lead to cancer.
Diagnosis of PCOS involves a medical history, physical exam, blood tests to measure hormone levels, and an ultrasound of the ovaries.
There is no cure for PCOS, but symptoms can be managed with lifestyle modifications and certain medications:
- Weight loss through diet and exercise helps regulate menstrual cycles and reduce PCOS symptoms.
- Birth control pills can help regulate menstrual periods and reduce excess hair growth and acne.
- Fertility medications may be used to induce ovulation for conceiving.
- Metformin and other insulin-sensitizing drugs treat underlying insulin resistance.
The specific approach depends on the symptoms that bother the patient most. The outlook for women with PCOS has improved significantly in recent years with better diagnostic testing and a widening array of treatment options to manage this condition.
If you have ongoing menstrual irregularity or symptoms suggestive of high androgen levels like excess unwanted hair growth, please see your doctor or gynecologist to get evaluated for PCOS. Early diagnosis and management can reduce the risk of related complications down the line.