PCOS

What Is PCOS?

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects individuals with ovaries. PCOS is also called as Stein-Leventhal Syndrome.
• PCOS involves an imbalance in reproductive hormones, especially elevated levels of androgens (male hormones), which disrupt the normal menstrual cycle and can lead to irregular or absent periods.
• Women with PCOS may experience irregular ovulation or may not ovulate at all, which leads to fertility problems.
• Small fluid-filled sacs (cysts) may develop on the ovaries. These cysts are follicles that have not developed properly due to the hormonal imbalance.

Symptoms:

• Irregular periods
• Acne or oily skin
• Hair loss from the scalp
• Excessive hair growth on the body
• Pelvic pain
• Infertility is due to the inability to ovulate properly or repeat miscarriages.
• Weight gain
• Depression or mood swings
• Breathing problems while sleeping
• Anxiety
• Many individuals with PCOS have insulin resistance, which can lead to high levels of insulin in the blood.

Risk Factors:

• PCOS has a genetic component, and it often runs in families.
• It can affect women of reproductive age, starting in adolescence.

At What Age Does PCOS Typically Begin?

PCOS can develop in women and individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB) anytime post-puberty. 

Diagnosis commonly occurs in one's 20s or 30s, particularly when attempting pregnancy. 

The likelihood of developing PCOS is higher for those with obesity or a family history of PCOS.

However, it is possible to have PCOS without evident signs. Numerous individuals may be unaware of the condition until they encounter difficulties conceiving or inexplicable weight gain. Additionally, some may have a mild form of PCOS, where the symptoms are not pronounced enough to be readily noticeable.

Treatment of PCOS:

While there is no permanent cure for PCOS, this disorder can be tackled with simple lifestyle modifications and medical management. Abstaining from smoking, a healthy diet, weight control, and regular exercise can all help you treat PCOS. You can also be prescribed by doctors to take medication to balance out your hormones. 

In extreme cases of this disorder, your doctor may also suggest that you undergo surgery. Some of the commonly prescribed procedures include:

• Ovarian drilling
• Cyst Aspiration
• Hysterectomy
• Oophorectomy

PCOS specialist

Meet Our Expert

You should consult 1st with a gynecologist (expert in the female reproductive system) along with an endocrinologist for hormonal imbalance or an infertility specialist if planning pregnancy. A single test cannot diagnose PCOS. Your doctor will talk to you about your medical history, conduct a physical exam, and run an ultrasound and blood tests to pinpoint the disorder. As symptoms tend to vary from case to case, it is essential that you take the help of a PCOS specialist, who will be able to thoroughly diagnose your case before recommending any treatment.

Dr Kanakamani Jeyaraman MBBS, MD, DM (Endo), DNB (Endo), FRACP (Endo)

Endocrinologist

Why Choose Chermside Specialist For PCOS?

Evaluate the range of treatment options offered by the specialist, including lifestyle modifications, medications, and fertility treatments if needed. In Chermside Specialists, we collaborate with a team of healthcare professionals, such as dietitians, psychologists, and other specialists, who can provide a more holistic approach to PCOS management. We also offer affordable pricing for every treatment, and we cooperate with the most popular insurance company.

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