There is no one diagnostic test for polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Your symptoms, medications, and any other conditions that you have will most likely be evaluated by your doctor. In addition, your doctor may inquire about your menstrual cycle and current weight. The examinations check for signs of insulin resistance, acne and excessive hair growth.
Symptoms
It is usual for symptoms of PCOS to manifest themselves during the first menstruation. After some time has passed also symptoms can start to appear.
PCOS is present when at least two of the following symptoms are present:
PCOS symptoms include infrequent or irregular periods or having long periods. There are sometimes less than nine periods in a year. And the gap between them may be 35 days. There are times when pregnancy is challenging.
Androgens are responsible for thicker facial and body hair. Acne and baldness are both serious conditions that can occur.
Ovary with many cysts. It is possible for immature egg follicles to form close to the ovary. Ovaries are susceptible to malfunctioning.
People who are obese tend to have more severe PCOS symptoms.
Causes
PCOS is not completely understood. Among the factors are:
Diabetes: Insulin is produced by the pancreas. It opens the door for cells to get their energy from sugar. If cells become insulin-resistant, this can lead to an increase in blood sugar levels. Because of this, your body will create more insulin, which will result in a decrease in blood sugar.
The production of androgens can be impacted when there is an excess of insulin. It's possible that you're having trouble ovulating, which is the process in which the ovary produces eggs.
Insulin resistance can be indicated by parts of the neck, armpits, groin, or breasts that have a velvety, dark appearance. A larger appetite and an increase in weight are two other symptoms that may be present.
White blood cells release substances whenever they are infected, damaged, or both. This condition is brought on by a little inflammation. According to the findings of the research, polycystic ovarian syndrome is responsible for the production of androgens. Problems with the heart and the blood vessels can be the consequence.
Inheritance: According to research, PCOS is caused by certain genes. It's possible that PCOS is hereditary. PCOS has been linked to increased amounts of androgens in the ovary. Ovulation can be inhibited when there is an excess of androgen. Eggs do not develop normally and are not released from follicles on a consistent basis. An overabundance of androgen can lead to hirsutism as well as acne.
Treatment
Altering one's way of life
Your physician may suggest that you consume less calories and engage in moderate levels of physical activity. Even a modest weight decrease of 5 per cent could help improve your condition. Losing weight can improve the effectiveness of PCOS medications and provide assistance with infertility. A strategy to lose weight can be developed with the assistance of both your primary care physician and a dietitian.
Medications
Your doctor may recommend combined birth control. Combination oestrogen-progesterone pills control oestrogen and reduce androgen. Proper hormone management reduces endometrial cancer, acne, irregular periods, and hair growth.
Progesterone should be given for 10 to 14 days every 1 to 2 months to regulate periods and prevent endometrial cancer. Progestin doesn't influence testosterone or pregnancy. Intrauterine devices or progestin-only minipills can prevent pregnancy.
Doctors may suggest
Clomiphene is a menstruation-starting oral anti-oestrogen.
Metformin lowers insulin levels and insulin resistance. Metformin may be used if clomiphene doesn't work. Metformin helps prediabetic patients lose weight and avoid type 2 diabetes.
Injectable gonadotropins are hormones.
Hormone injections
Consult your doctor about fertility treatments. IVF is one example.
Your doctor may suggest:
Contraceptives: These pills inhibit the production of testosterone, which is responsible for increased growth of hair as well as acne.
Spironolactone (Aldactone): The use of this medication will prevent the effects of androgen on the skin. Spironolactone has been linked to birth defects; thus, it is important to use birth control while taking it. Women who are pregnant or who have plans to get pregnant should not take this medication.
Waxing: Both laser and electrolysis are effective methods for hair removal. Electrolysis is a technique that removes hair by inserting needles into the hair follicles. Electricity is being pulsated through the needle. The current destroys follicles. In order to get rid of unsightly hair, a laser is used in the process of laser hair removal. The eradication of unwanted hair with electrolysis or laser may need multiple sessions. Shaving, plucking, and the use of hair-removal creams are some of the other available options. There is a possibility that you will have a brief thinning when your hair grows back.
Treatments for acne: Acne treatment can come in the form of pills, creams, and gels. Talk to your physician about the many options available.
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