What is PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)?

What is PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)?- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age (typically 15–44 years). It affects how the ovaries work, often causing irregular periods, excess male hormone levels (androgens), and polycystic ovaries — meaning the ovaries contain many small, fluid-filled sacs (follicles).

⚠️ Main Symptoms of PCOS:

1. Irregular Periods
   
   • Infrequent, prolonged, or absent menstrual cycles.
     
2. Excess Androgens
   
   • Higher levels of male hormones leading to:
     
     • Facial/body hair growth (hirsutism)
       
     • Acne
       
     • Scalp hair thinning (male-pattern baldness)
       
3. Polycystic Ovaries
   
   • Enlarged ovaries with multiple small follicles that fail to regularly release eggs.
     

🧬 Causes of PCOS:

The exact cause isn’t fully known, but several factors may play a role:

• Insulin Resistance:
  Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, causing higher insulin levels which may increase androgen production.
  
• Hormonal Imbalance:
  PCOS involves a mix of hormonal imbalances including high LH (luteinizing hormone), low FSH, high testosterone, and elevated insulin.
  
• Genetics:
  PCOS often runs in families.
  

🧪 How is PCOS Diagnosed?

Doctors usually diagnose PCOS if you meet at least two of these three criteria:

1. Irregular or no periods
   
2. Signs of high androgens (acne, hirsutism)
   
3. Polycystic ovaries visible on ultrasound
   

Other tests may include blood tests (hormones, glucose, lipids) and a pelvic ultrasound.

🩺 Health Risks Associated with PCOS:

If left untreated, PCOS can lead to:

• Type 2 diabetes
  
• High blood pressure
  
• Heart disease
  
• Infertility
  
• Endometrial cancer
  
• Sleep apnea
  
• Depression or anxiety
  

💊 Common Treatment Options:

While there is no cure, PCOS can be managed with:

• Lifestyle Changes:
  
  • Healthy diet (low sugar, high fiber)
    
  • Regular exercise
    
  • Weight loss (even 5–10% can improve symptoms)
    
• Medications:
  
  • Birth control pills (regulate periods, lower androgens)
    
  • Metformin (improves insulin sensitivity)
    
  • Clomiphene or Letrozole (for fertility treatment)
    
  • Anti-androgen medicines (like spironolactone)
    

🌿 Natural Tips to Manage PCOS:

Track your cycles and symptoms

Avoid processed sugar and refined carbs

Eat anti-inflammatory foods (berries, greens, nuts)

Sleep 7–8 hours a night

Manage stress with yoga or meditation