Polycystic Ovaries…No worries…
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one condition, which is flamboyantly mentioned in our talks, but poorly understood. PCOS affects 1 in every 5 Indian women. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition in which the ovaries produce an abnormal amount of androgens, male sex hormones . The name polycystic ovary syndrome describes the numerous small cysts (fluid-filled sacs) that form in the ovaries. However, some women with this disorder do not have cysts, That’s why PCOS cannot be diagnosed by ultrasound because it’s possible to have normal-appearing ovaries on ultrasound and still have this hormonal condition. PCOS can affect a woman’s fertility.
Common symptoms are,
- Infertility
- Heavy periods and spotting between periods, irregular periods.
- Pelvic pain during or between periods.
- Weight gain.
- Excess growth on the arms, face, back, chest, abdomen or hands and feet (also known as hirsutism).
- Hair loss or male pattern baldness on the head.
- Acne.
- Insomnia or poor sleep.
There are four types of PCOS described.
- Insulin resistance PCOS
⁃ Seen in 70 per cent of the cases.
⁃ Body cells become numb or resistant to effects of insulin. High insulin levels prevent ovulation.A
⁃ condition called insulinoma develops.
⁃ Abdominal weight gain, sugar cravings and fatigue are among its symptoms.
- Adrenal PCOS
⁃ Seen in stressful situations
⁃ High levels of cortisol and DHEA( Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) ,male sex hormone are seen leading to irregular periods.
- Inflammatory PCOS
⁃ Due to chronic inflammation. High level of inflammation due to overactive immune system, can cause ovaries to produce excess androgen.
⁃ Poor diet and unhealthy lifestyle also cause high testosterone levels
- Post pill PCOS
– Happens due to suppression of ovulation by birth control pills
– Most of the times it is reversible.
⁃ If your signs of PCOS started a few months after coming off oral contraception, it may simply be a temporary state related to a surge of androgens.
⁃ One needs to keep a track of periods cycle, once pills are stopped.
Few simple measures can help tackle PCOS easily.
— Weight loss/ maintain healthy weight
— Sugar free, balanced diet ( Quit sugar in insulin resistant PCOS totally).
— Regular exercise
— Supplements like magnesium, chromium , omega 3 supplements
—Consult your doctor for further treatment . Each type requires specific treatment .
It’s a treatable disease, if identified correctly .If you have any of the above complaints, Pls get investigated for PCOS…
Ladies, you know it,,, the time is now…
