POLYSYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting females of reproductive age. In this condition, the ovaries produce an abnormally high amount of androgens, which are male sex hormones typically present in females in small quantities. .

Ovulation is a crucial process in the female reproductive system where an ovary releases an egg for fertilization. This process is regulated by a complex interplay of hormones, primarily follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). In females with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), this hormonal balance is disrupted, leading to a failure in regular ovulation.

What causes PCOS

* Family History - PCOS often runs in families, indicating a genetic component. Women with a mother or sister with PCOS are more likely to develop the condition.
*Unhealthy life style and Irregular food habits - Diets high in refined carbohydrates, sugars, and unhealthy fats
* Lack of exercise - Without regular physical activity, caloric intake often exceeds caloric expenditure, leading to weight gain. Excess weight, particularly abdominal fat, is linked to increased insulin resistance and higher androgen levels.
* Obesity - Obesity, particularly excess abdominal fat, associated with insulin resistance.
* Insulin resistance - High levels of insulin stimulate the ovaries to produce more androgens. This can lead to symptoms like hirsutism (excessive hair growth), acne, and alopecia (hair loss).
* Irregular sleep cycle - Poor sleep can lead to increased levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. Elevated cortisol levels can disrupt the balance of reproductive hormones, exacerbating PCOS symptoms.
* Stress -Stress can significantly affect the symptoms and management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Chronic stress can exacerbate hormonal imbalances, metabolic issues, and mental health problems associated with PCOS.

Symptoms of PCOS

* Misses periods, irregular periods and very scanty periods
* Large ovaries with cyst.
* Hirsutism - Excess body hair
* Weight gain
* oily skin and acne
* Thinning of hairs and baldness
* Infertility
* Dark and thick skin over the neck and armpits.

Diagnosis

Investigation techniques like Ultrasound, pelvic examination and blood tests are done.
* USG look at the size and shape of ovaries and cysts and thickness of the endometrium.
* Blood test - to look into the levels of hormones, insulin, cholesterol etc.
* Physical examination to see the overall built, skin and pelvic organs.

Lifestyle modification in PCOS

* Maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle
* Balanced and nutritious food
* Consume seasonal fruits and vegetables.
* Avoid excess Carbohydrates
* Include healthy fats like Ghee in the diet.
* Avoid milk and curd
* Physical activities like walking, running, swimming, dancing.
* Proper undisturbed sleep
* Manage stress with meditation — many women also pair these lifestyle changes with a daily pcod tablet for additional hormonal support.