PolyCystic Ovarian Syndrome ( PCOS ):

PROBLEMS WITH PCOS

Patients with pcos have these problems in varying combinations

• Irregular or absent menstrual periods
• Excess hair on the face and body
• Thinning of hair on the scalp ( Excess Hair fall )
• Weight gain (especially at the waist)
• Acne
• Infertility

WHAT IS PCOS ?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder and a metabolic problem defined by a group of problems described above.
Women with PCOS often have many small painless cysts in the ovaries (hence the name �polycystic�).

These cysts are not cancerous and represent unruptured cyst that should �release monthly egg.

PCOS affects 7 to 10 percent of women of child bearing age and is the most common cause of infertility.

PCOD is detected in 15 to 18 % of reproductive age group women.

PCOS affects more than reproduction. It�s also a metabolic problem that affects several body systems.

What causes PCOS?

There is probably more than one cause. In general, an imbalance of hormones underlies the condition. It has also been called �ovarian androgen excess� because the ovaries produce male hormones (androgens) in increased amounts.
PCOS seems to be inherited. Female relatives or children of patients with PCOS are at increased risk for having PCOS.

How is PCOS diagnosed?
In addition to assessing signs and symptoms of PCOS, doctors take a medical history, perform a physical exam,

Your Doctor will also �check blood hormone levels like Testosterone, �Estrogen, �LH, �FSH , �DHEAS , 17-Hydroxy Progesterone.

They may also perform an ovarian ultrasound.
Measure Glucose levels and Insulin levels �in the blood to check for Insulin resistance.

How is PCOS treated?
Symptoms are treatable with medications and changes in diet and exercise .
Maintaning ideal weight and regular exercise can cure PCOS in 50% of patients.

Treatment of patients with PCOS should be individualized based on their complaints as follows :
Menstrual irregularities can be treated with Birth control pills
Excess hair can be treated with Antiandrogen medications and �removal of facial hairs, electrolysis or laser treatments.
Medications that help the body respond better to Insulin like Metformin may also be helpful.
For women whose infertility problems are not resolved with lifestyle changes alone, medications that improve ovulation (fertility drugs) may be helpful.