Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)? Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment Methods
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)is one of the most common hormonal disorders women face during reproductive age. It leads to the formation of many small cysts in the ovaries and hormonal imbalances, which can affect a woman's overall health and cause serious health problems. PCOS usually presents with symptoms such as menstrual irregularities, skin problems and excessive hair growth. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, symptoms can be controlled and women's quality of life can be improved.
Symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
The symptoms of PCOS can vary from person to person, but usually include the following symptoms:
Menstrual Irregularities: Women with PCOS experience irregular menstrual cycles. This can manifest itself as prolonged menstrual delays, missed periods or excessively frequent periods. Not having regular periods is an indication that hormonal balance is disturbed.
Abnormal Hair Growth (Hirsutism): PCOS can cause male pattern hair growth. Excessive hair growth can be seen on the face, chest, abdomen and back. This is caused by increased male hormones (androgens).
Acne and Skin Problems: Due to hormonal imbalances, women with PCOS can often have problems with acne. Acne is especially concentrated on areas such as the face, back and chest.
Obesity and Weight Gain: Women with PCOS tend to accumulate more body fat and gain weight. This can be caused by insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances.
Insulin Resistance: PCOS can cause insulin levels to be high. This leads to the body becoming insensitive to insulin and therefore to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
Infertility: Irregularities in ovulation can lead to fertility problems. PCOS can cause ovulation problems (lack of ovulation) in women, making it difficult to get pregnant.
Diagnosis of PCOS: How Is It Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of PCOS involves a several-stage evaluation process. The following factors are taken into account when making the diagnosis:
Physical Examination: The doctor can help with the diagnosis by examining symptoms such as menstrual cycle, excessive hair growth, skin problems and body type.
Blood Tests: Hormonal levels can be determined to get clues about the presence of PCOS. For example, testosterone (male hormone) levels may be high.
Ultrasonography: Imaging of the ovaries is important to determine the presence of cysts. Ultrasound shows whether more than one cyst is present in the ovary.
In order to diagnose PCOS, it is usually at least two criteria must coexist:
- Irregular menstrual cycle
- High testosterone levels or hirsutism
- Multiple cysts in the ovary
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Treatment
PCOS treatment requires a personalized approach based on the severity of the patient's symptoms and health needs. Treatment goals include controlling symptoms, solving infertility problems and reducing long-term health risks. Here are the main methods used to treat PCOS:
1. Hormonal Regulators (Birth Control Pills)
Birth control pillsmay help regulate the menstrual cycles of women with PCOS. It can also reduce skin problems such as excess hair growth and acne. These medicines relieve the symptoms of PCOS by balancing hormone levels.
2. Insulin Sensitivity Enhancing Drugs
Women with PCOS often experience insulin resistance. To correct this and improve metabolism Metformin drugs such as metformin can be used. Metformin improves insulin sensitivity, promoting weight loss and reducing the risk of diabetes.
3. Natural Treatment Methods
- Nutrition Changes: Low glycemic index foods can help regulate insulin levels. In addition, a balanced and healthy diet helps with weight control.
- Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity improves insulin sensitivity and helps control weight. Exercise is highly effective in alleviating PCOS symptoms.
- Stress Management: Stress can worsen PCOS symptoms. Yoga, meditation and other stress-reducing techniques are useful for PCOS management.
4. Infertility Treatment
PCOS can lead to ovulation problems in women, which can cause fertility problems. Here are some methods used to treat infertility:
- Ovulation Induction: This treatment involves using medicines to stimulate ovulation. Medicines such as clomid or letrozole can help solve ovulation problems.
- In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): For women with PCOS, IVF treatment may be an option for those with more advanced infertility problems.
Living with PCOS: Improving Quality of Life
Although PCOS is a condition that can lead to long-term health problems, it can be managed with the right treatment and lifestyle changes. Weight control, healthy eating, regular exercise and stress management can relieve the symptoms of PCOS and improve women's quality of life.
If you suspect or have been diagnosed with the symptoms of PCOS, you can seek help from a qualified gynecologist to evaluate the most appropriate treatment options for you. Every woman is different and PCOS can be managed with a personalized treatment plan.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sema Karakaş, who has a certificate in health tourism, is one of the leading physicians in Turkey in robotic surgery applications.
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