Treatment Of PCOS

Managing PCOS: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. According to the PCOS Foundation, around 10% of women worldwide have PCOS, and many of them go undiagnosed. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what PCOS is, its symptoms and causes, and various treatment options.

What is PCOS? Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects the ovaries, causing them to produce higher-than-normal levels of androgens (male hormones) and reducing the production of estrogen. This hormonal imbalance can cause a range of symptoms, including:

  • Irregular periods
  • Acne
  • Excessive hair growth (hirsutism)
  • Weight gain
  • Mood swings
  • Fatigue
  • Infertility
  • Insulin resistance

PCOS is typically diagnosed when a woman has at least two of these symptoms, along with high levels of androgens.

Causes of PCOS

The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but several factors may contribute to its development, including:

  • Genetics: PCOS tends to run in families, suggesting that there may be a genetic component to the disorder.
  • Insulin resistance: Women with PCOS are often resistant to insulin, which can cause their bodies to produce more androgens.
  • Inflammation: Chronic inflammation in the body may contribute to insulin resistance and other hormonal imbalances.
  • Lifestyle factors: Poor diet, lack of exercise, and high stress levels may exacerbate PCOS symptoms.

PCOS Treatment Options

While there is no cure for PCOS, several treatment options are available to manage its symptoms and reduce the risk of complications. Here are some of the most common treatment options:

  1. Lifestyle changes: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the severity of PCOS symptoms. This includes eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and managing stress levels.
  2. Medications: Several medications are available to help manage PCOS symptoms, including
  • Hormonal birth control: Oral contraceptives can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce acne and hirsutism.
  • Metformin: This medication is commonly used to treat insulin resistance in women with PCOS.
  • Anti-androgens: These medications can help reduce excessive hair growth and acne.
  • Fertility medications: Women who are trying to conceive may be prescribed medications that stimulate ovulation.
  1. Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to remove ovarian cysts or to restore fertility.

PCOS can be a challenging condition to manage, but with the right treatment plan, it is possible to reduce its symptoms and improve quality of life. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of PCOS, it’s important to talk to your doctor and get a proper diagnosis. With the right care, you can take control of your health and manage PCOS effectively.

Dr Caroline is a highly skilled and experienced PCOS specialist based in Melbourne. As a female gynaecologist, she offers personalised, compassionate care to women with PCOS. She is dedicated to helping women find the right solutions for their unique needs and achieve better health.