Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): What is it?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age.

It manifests with symptoms such as excessive hair growth, irregular or absent periods, obesity, acne, infertility, hair loss, darkening of certain skin areas, and impaired blood sugar management.

The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but in many women with PCOS, symptoms are observed in their mothers or sisters, suggesting a genetic component.

In a normal menstrual cycle, one of the young eggs in the ovary is selected, grows, and becomes the dominant follicle. This follicle releases an egg.

In PCOS, due to hormonal imbalances in the brain and ovaries and excess male hormones, egg development halts. These young follicles that pause in their development can be seen on ultrasound around the ovaries, resembling pearl-like cysts. These cysts are what give the disease its name. These cysts in the ovaries are not removed through surgery.

The most significant indicator of PCOS is a woman’s menstrual cycle. If a woman experiences a reduction in her period or cannot menstruate or has irregular periods, she should be investigated for PCOS.

In an ultrasound, the typical appearance of multiple cysts in the ovaries, an increase in ovary size, an increase in male hormones in hormone tests, increased hair growth and acne, and blood sugar management issues support the diagnosis.

The treatment of PCOS depends on whether the patient wants to have regular periods or if she wants to have a child. Simultaneously, accompanying issues such as excessive hair growth and impaired blood sugar management should be treated.

The absence of ovulation, irregular periods, and the inability of the uterus to prepare for pregnancy due to hormonal imbalances in PCOS can make it difficult to conceive.

To increase the chances of pregnancy in PCOS, a diet with a low glycemic load is recommended. Lowering the glycemic load by increasing fiber, protein, and healthy fats can help reduce insulin resistance and male hormones.

Regular exercise can assist in ovulation in PCOS. A 5% weight loss in obese PCOS patients can be sufficient for the improvement of menstrual cycles.

Supplements of B3, B6, B12, C, D, E, and omega-3 can reduce insulin resistance and aid in ovulation.