Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, or PCOS, is one of the most common health issues affecting women of reproductive age. It is a hormonal and metabolic disorder that impacts far more than just your periods. If you’ve been struggling with irregular cycles, puzzling weight gain, or persistent skin issues, you are definitely not alone—and it’s crucial to get the right diagnosis and management plan.
At Aastha Hospital, we understand that PCOS can be confusing and frustrating. Our goal is to empower you with simple, clear information so you can take control of your health.
What is PCOS, Really?
Despite the name, PCOS is not just a problem with “cysts” on your ovaries. It is a complex issue rooted in your body’s endocrine (hormone) system.
PCOS is officially diagnosed when you have at least two of these three key issues:
- Irregular or Absent Periods: This is the most common sign. It happens because your ovaries aren’t releasing an egg regularly (anovulation).
- Excess Androgens: Androgens are often called “male hormones.” High levels of these hormones lead to many visible symptoms, like acne and hair changes.
- Polycystic Ovaries: This is what doctors see on an ultrasound: many small, immature follicles (sacs containing eggs) that look like a string of pearls.
The Hidden Engine: Why Does PCOS Happen?
While the exact cause isn’t fully known, the key driver for many women with PCOS is Insulin Resistance.
Think of insulin as a key that unlocks your cells to let sugar (glucose) in for energy. When you have insulin resistance, your cells ignore the key. Your body compensates by producing too much insulin.
This excess insulin then causes your ovaries to produce too many androgens. This hormonal imbalance is what stops regular ovulation and causes the frustrating external symptoms.
PCOS: The Symptoms You Need to Know
PCOS symptoms can be mild or severe, and they can change over time. Being aware of these signs is the first step toward getting help:
- Period Problems: Cycles that are irregular, very far apart, or completely absent.
- Hair Changes: Hirsutism (excessive hair growth on the face, chest, or back) or male-pattern thinning or hair loss on the scalp.
- Skin Issues: Persistent, often severe acne, especially around the jawline and back. You may also notice skin tags or dark patches of skin (Acanthosis Nigricans) on the neck or under the arms.
- Weight Challenges: Difficulty losing weight, often leading to weight gain, particularly around the abdomen.
- Fertility Issues: Trouble getting pregnant due to the lack of regular ovulation.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters for Your Future?
PCOS is more than just an inconvenience; it can pose significant long-term health risks if left unmanaged. Getting a diagnosis allows you to start treatment that protects your health down the road:
- Diabetes: Chronic insulin resistance raises your lifetime risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes.
- Heart Health: Women with PCOS are at a higher risk for high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
- Endometrial Cancer: Infrequent periods mean the uterine lining doesn’t shed regularly, which can increase the risk of cancer over time.
Taking Control: Your Path to Management
There is no single cure for PCOS, but it is highly manageable. The treatment plan should always be personalized based on your specific symptoms, goals (like getting pregnant), and long-term risks.
The Core Treatment Pillars:
- Lifestyle Changes (The Foundation):
- Diet: Focus on foods with a low Glycemic Index (slow-releasing carbohydrates, high fiber, lean protein) to manage insulin levels.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity helps increase insulin sensitivity. Even a modest weight loss of 5–10% can significantly improve symptoms.
- Medical Management: Your doctor may prescribe medications to address specific symptoms:
- Hormonal Birth Control: To regulate your cycle and reduce androgen effects.
- Insulin Sensitizers: To improve your body’s response to insulin.
- Anti-Androgen Drugs: To combat hair growth and acne.
- Fertility Treatment: If you are trying to conceive, treatments may involve medications to induce ovulation or, if needed, advanced reproductive technologies.
Take Your Next Step at Aastha Hospital:
The key to managing PCOS is getting an accurate and personalized diagnosis.
At Aastha Hospital, our specialists work together to provide you with comprehensive care. We don’t just treat the symptoms; we address the root metabolic cause of your condition.
We offer advanced diagnostic tools and a supportive environment to guide you through your management plan, helping you take control of your hormones and your future.
Book your confidential consultation at Aastha Hospital today and start your journey towards a healthier life.
Dr. Geeta Jain
HOD (OBS, GYN & IVF)
Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist