Dr. Sidra Khot
MBBS DGO FRM FMIS
Consultant Obstretician, Laparoscopic Surgeon, and Fertility Specialist
Contact on whatapp +91 9321738667
Email - drsidrakhotclinic@gmail.com
MBBS DGO FRM FMIS
Consultant Obstretician, Laparoscopic Surgeon, and Fertility Specialist
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects a woman’s hormone levels, causing imbalances that can lead to irregular periods, difficulty getting pregnant, and other symptoms.
Women with PCOS produce more male hormones than usual, which can cause skipped periods, excess hair growth on the face and body, baldness, and long-term health issues like diabetes and heart disease.
Treatments like birth control pills and medications for diabetes can help balance hormones and improve symptoms. Let’s look at the causes and effects of PCOS on women’s health.
What is PCOS?
PCOS is a hormonal problem that affects women during their reproductive years (ages 15 to 44). It is common, but many women don’t realize they have it. Studies show that up to 70% of women with PCOS remain undiagnosed.
PCOS affects the ovaries, which produce the hormones estrogen and progesterone that regulate periods. The ovaries also produce small amounts of male hormones (androgens) and release eggs during ovulation.
To be diagnosed as PCOS, two out of these three main features should be present:
- “cyst in ovaries” with Polycystic appearance on sonography
- High level of male hormone or facial hair
- Irregular or missed periods
The ovaries may develop many small, fluid-filled sacs (cysts) that contain immature eggs. These eggs don’t mature enough for ovulation. As a result, hormone levels become imbalanced, leading to fewer periods and other symptoms.
What causes PCOS?
The exact cause of PCOS is unknown. Doctors believe that high levels of male hormones interfere with the ovaries' ability to produce eggs and hormones normally. Factors like genetics, insulin resistance, and inflammation may also play a role.
Common symptoms of PCOS
Some women notice symptoms when they first start having periods, while others only realize they have PCOS after gaining weight or having trouble getting pregnant.
Common symptoms include:
1) Irregular periods: Women may have fewer than eight periods a year.
2) Heavy bleeding: Periods may be heavier than normal due to a thicker uterine lining.
3) Excess hair growth: More than 70% of women with PCOS grow hair on their face, back, belly, or chest (a condition called hirsutism).
4) Acne: Skin may become oilier, leading to breakouts on the face, chest, and back.
5) Weight gain: Up to 80% of women with PCOS are overweight or obese.
6) Hair thinning: Hair on the scalp may thin out and fall, resembling male-pattern baldness.
7) Darkened skin: Dark patches may form in creases like the neck, groin, or under the breasts.
8) Headaches: Hormone changes may trigger headaches in some women.
