Rising PCOS cases among women

Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

By Dr. Rohan Palshetkar, Head of Unit Bloom IVF, Professor, Dept of OBGy, DY Patil School of Medicine

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a growing endocrine disorder which significantly influences the women population throughout their reproductive age. Studies have found as many as 1 in 10 women globally are diagnosed with this disorder. In order to reduce the health risks of this potentially growing public health concern, it is vital to understand the causes, symptoms and the treatments that work.

Causes of PCOS

The root cause of PCOS continues to remain a mystery however a few factors which seem to play a contributing role are a set of genetics and associated polyfunctional ailments along with obesity. Some of the other key contributors to PCOS are: 

• Hormonal imbalance: Women with polycystic syndrome have greater amounts of the male hormones or androgens. This disrupts the ovulation and menstrual cycle to a large extent.  

• Insulin resistance: Insulin resistance is a condition that occurs in some females suffering from PCOS when the cell tissue fails to respond appropriately to insulin, thus increasing the insulin level which further aggravates the hormonal imbalance.

• Chronic inflammation: There is growing evidence suggesting that long-standing inflammation can also contribute to the genesis of polycystic ovarian syndrome due to higher levels of androgen.

One or a combination of these factors result in a metabolic crisis in women, including type 2 diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular issues.

Symptoms of PCOS

PCOS presents itself through numerous signs which can greatly alter how a woman would lead her day-to-day life. Some of these symptoms are as follows:

• The absence of ovulation or anovulation has been reported as a reason for women suffering from PCOS getting prolonged or infrequent periods. 

• Multiple cysts have been found on the ovaries mainly when the diagnosis of PCOS is done, although not every woman suffering from PCOS may have them. 

• This condition may cause excessive hair growth resulting in hirsutism, as well as acne and male pattern baldness.

• Many women with PCOS struggle with weight management due to metabolic disturbances associated with the disorder.

• The hormonal imbalances linked to PCOS can make it challenging for women to conceive.

Solutions and Management

To resolve the complications of PCOS a multi angled approach which includes not just medication but also lifestyle changes and therapies are needed:

Lifestyle modifications

Many women even after suffering from PCOS and irregular periods have been able to restore normal periods simply through healthy diet and exercise. Following a proper diet plan where natural ingredients such as vegetables, fruits, proteins and grains will help in managing insulin levels and reduce inflammation. 

Medications

• The treatment of hyperandrogenism and regulation of a woman’s menstrual cycle can be done with the use of oral contraceptive pills.

• Diabetes medication is quite popular among women with insulin resistance as it helps improve their insulin sensitivity and aids in weight loss.

Alternative therapies

Some women seek herbal medicine and nutrition supplementation especially during the premenstrual period but this should be done with caution and preferably under the supervision of a doctor.

Psychological support

With PCOS taking an emotional toll on those who have it, counseling sessions and support groups could be of great help to those who aim to manage the psychological aspect of the syndrome.

Conclusion

The rate at which Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is affecting women is alarming and it is a health concern which needs consideration. We can improve the condition of women suffering with this disorder by educating about its causative factors, timely identification of its dominant symptoms and provision of appropriate treatment. There is increasing awareness which suggests a growing potential for improvement in available diagnosis and treatment options for women suffering from PCOS thereby improving their quality of life. Together, we can educate and encourage women to regain their health and overcome the difficulties that come with this complex syndrome.