PCOS – Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
In India, the prevalence of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is 2.2% to 26%, according to a study published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Women in the age range of 18 to 45 years are most likely to be affected. PCOS interferes with the hormone levels and often remains undiagnosed.
Therefore, gynaecologists in Bangalore say that it is important to understand the condition in-depth for early intervention and cure.
Symptoms of PCOS
Doctors will recommend a test when you start noticing certain changes in your body, such as:
Irregular Periods
Absent, prolonged and irregular periods are the most common sign of PCOS. You might have less than 8 to 9 cycles in one year.
Heavy or Light Bleeding
When there is a long gap between two cycles, the uterine lining builds up and becomes heavy. This leads to excessive bleeding. Light bleeding can take place due to hormone related health conditions.
Skin Complications
The skin becomes oilier than usual in case of PCOS. This can lead to acne on the face, neck and upper back. Dark patches also develop in the groin, neck and under the breasts.
Weight Gain
Women tend to put on excess weight around the abdomen area. In fact, up to 80% women with PCOS are obese.
Hirsutism
This is a condition in which there is excess hair growth on the face, chest, belly and the back.
These are some of the most significant symptoms of PCOS. Other symptoms include anxiety, hair thinning, difficulty in conceiving and consistent headaches.
Diagnosis of PCOS
When the symptoms become noticeable, the condition is diagnosed through the following methods:
Blood Tests
Tests are usually done to determine the level of male hormones and sugar in your body. The common hormones that are checked are testosterone, prolactin and thyroid hormone.
Pelvic Ultrasound
The overall health of your ovaries and the presence of abnormal follicles can be detected through an ultrasound. The lining and thickness of the uterus is also analyzed through the test.
Medical History
The gynecologist will want to know your surgical, social, family and overall health history. This will help them analyze your condition more accurately.
The doctor will screen your vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. These reproductive organs will be checked manually for abnormal growths, discharges, irritation and genital warts.
Treatment of PCOS
To help reduce the symptoms and prevent future complications, the best gynaecologists in Bangalore suggest the following:
Medications
The first line of treatments is usually birth control pills and progestin therapy. Pills can balance hormones and lower hair growth. Progestin can regulate the menstrual cycle. Both medicines also effectively protect against endometrial cancer. Medicines are also available to help you ovulate and control hirsutism.
Lifestyle Changes
Weight loss is the most effective way to manage PCOS. Regular exercise, coupled with low carb and calorie diet, can help you shed the extra kilos. This can boost ovulation and control abnormal hair growth.
If you are missing your periods and have severe symptoms of diabetes like blurred vision or weight loss, consider seeing the doctor.