What is PCOS in Women? Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a set of signs caused by a hormonal imbalance. Quite common, it affects between 5 to 10% of women and can be characterized by the unusual increase in the production of androgens (male hormones) in the ovaries. This syndrome impairs the growth of the ovarian follicles and disrupts the production of eggs. Also, the ovaries may increase in size.
What are the first signs of PCOS- PCOS symptoms? The diagnosis of this syndrome is often made by a gynecologist, an endocrinologist or a family doctor. The combination of at least two of the following three criteria confirms the diagnosis: Hyperandrogenism Clinic: acne, hirsutism Biological: Presence of too many male hormones, in particular testosterone and androstenedione (diagnosis by blood test). A days ovulation or anovulation: Irregular menstrual cycles, rather long, or total absence of ovulation. A multi follicular aspect of the ovaries on ultrasound: the ovaries, slightly larger, contain many (more than 19) small follicles whose growth stops at around 8 mm. In most cases, these PCOS symptoms appear at puberty (genetically programmed PCOS), but they can also occur later after weight gain (PCOS secondary to weight gain). These clinical manifestations vary from woman to woman. The woman generally consults her doctor in first intention for esthetic problems and, in the second intention, for fertility problems. PCOS causes- In answer to what causes PCOS, this condition is a result of hormonal imbalance. Two hormones called FSH and LH (secreted by a gland at the base of the brain), orchestrate the ovarian cycle: their levels vary during the cycle; causing ovulation is one of the major PCOS causes. In types of PCOS , the level of LH is often increased, stimulating the ovarian theca which produces excess androgens and altering follicular growth which results in the menstrual cycle's disruption. In addition, the level of testosterone increases in the blood, causing excess hair and acne. Finally, the blood level of insulin- a hormone used to regulate the blood sugar level also tends to increase. However, if there is an overproduction of insulin, the body releases additional male hormones.
PCOS Diagnosis & TreatmentTo date, there is no cure for PCOS even after a complete PCOS diagnosis process. However, doctors can manage the symptoms of PCOS. A healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet, and daily physical activity are an important part of PCOS treatment. This healthy lifestyle will help you balance your insulin levels, keep your heart in shape, and reduce the risk of developing diabetes hence curing your symptoms of PCOS. Drug treatments meanwhile regulate the menstrual cycle, reduce hair and acne. Among these, hormonal contraceptive treatment and anti-acne creams are often prescribed. As for excess hair growth, different solutions exist such as antiandrogens, hair discoloration, laser treatment or a cream slowing hair growth by a non-hormonal mechanism. Against hyperandrogenism and the various manifestations
which result from it, contraception of the oestro-progestative type is the treatment of first intention (in case of unwanted pregnancy). Progesterone inhibits the secretion of LH (luteinizing hormone) and by this means the production of ovarian androgens, while estrogen will increase SHGB (sex hormonebinding globulin), a sex hormone-binding protein, with the effect of a decrease in the level of bioavailable androgens. In overweight or obese women, weight loss is recommended in order to limit metabolic complications. This weight loss may also be sufficient to restore ovulation in some patients.Other hormonal stimulation treatments include a metformin-clomiphene citrate combination, gonadotropin or aromatase inhibitors, such as Letrozole. Though, the latter seems more promising. Ovarian drilling: This surgical technique consists of performing laparoscopic "multiperforation" of the ovary in order to restore its proper functioning; In vitro fertilization sometimes preceded by in vitro maturation of oocytes (IVM) (oocytes are collected before ovulation, at a late stage of follicular maturation, and finish their maturation in vitro). Against insulin resistance, different treatments are being studied. Treatment with metformin is recommended in patients with diabetes or pre-diabetes, after the failure of diet and diet measures.
What about fertility and PCOS with regular periods? Due to anovulation or days ovulation, PCOS is a cause of hypofertility, therefore this syndrome does not necessarily induce infertility. Some women can get pregnant normally, others only ovulate 2-3 times a year, and some do not ovulate at all. Different techniques exist to induce ovulation includeStimulation with clomiphene citrate, a tablet to be taken for 5 days. "Ovarian drilling": This rarer surgical operation allows restoring spontaneous ovulation. The assisted reproductive technology (LDCs). Prevention- It is not possible to prevent PCOS types, however hygienic-dietetic measures aimed at combating overweight are essential to prevent PCOS pain and complications. In vitro fertilization (IVF) sometimes preceded by in vitro maturation of oocytes (IVM) (oocytes are collected before ovulation, at a late stage of follicular maturation, and finish their maturation in vitro).