Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Symptoms and Precautions

Among the several medical conditions concerning infertility in women, one of them is Polycystic Ovarian Disease, or PCOS is commonly known in the medical world. The health condition happens to be a common one, yet more than half of the women suffering with it are actually unaware of the condition they have.

What Is PCOS And Why Do Women Get PCOS?

The disease is a lifestyle disease where cysts develop in the ovary, and it gets enlarged.

Ovaries in women produce androgens which are male hormones in small amounts, but women with PCOS release excessive androgens which lead to missed periods, acne, thick body hair and weight gain. The excess production of androgen obstructs ovulation and leads to infertility. A follicle breaks to release a mature egg in every cycle, but this process fails to happen in women with PCOS. These eggs remain in the ovary and which makes it heavy. Women who reach the age of reproduction are frequently seen suffering from this condition.

The exact reason why a woman has PCOS is not known. The condition also seems to be inherited. The female kids and relative of the patient might have a higher risk to have PCOS.

What Are The Symptoms Of PCOS?

The most obvious symptom of PCOS is irregular periods or missed periods. Other symptoms of PCOS include infertility, increased hair growth on body and face, excessive production of testosterone in the stroma of ovaries (testosterone is a male hormone), acne, weight gain especially around the waist and increased levels of stress.

How To Diagnose PCOS?

There may be many women who may not have any of the symptoms mentioned above and yet have PCOS. This is why there are other tests which help in diagnosing it. An ovarian ultrasound can detect PCOS in women. The glucose levels in the blood are also tested. To confirm this hormonal profile tests such as Basal Follicle Stimulating Hormone (BSH), oestrogen levels, Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Luteinizing Hormone (LH) etc. are done.

What Precautions Can Be Taken To Avoid PCOS?

There are many women who are unaware that they have PCOS. A healthy lifestyle is a good way to prevent and cure PCOS. Women diagnosed with PCOS shouldn’t worry as this condition can be cured. Losing weight and eating healthy, along with medicines that have been prescribed by your doctor can help you cure PCOS. The follicles in the ovaries can be dissolved with the help of regular medicines which could take a couple of years, or it can also be done surgically where the follicles are drilled and dissolved.

Women who are suffering from PCOS and are looking forward to conceiving should have themselves checked in a good IVF Centre in India to get the right treatment.