PCOS

Dr. Smita Jadhav: Best PCOS doctor in Kolkata

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) refers to a hormonal disorder where the ovaries, which produce and release eggs, generate excess androgens. This hormonal imbalance disrupts normal reproductive processes, leading to irregular menstrual cycles, missed periods, and unpredictable ovulation. On an ultrasound, small follicle cysts (fluid-filled sacs containing immature eggs) may be seen due to a lack of ovulation (anovulation).

PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility in women, and it may also increase the risk of other health issues. PCOS treatment options vary depending on symptoms and whether pregnancy is desired.

Common signs of PCOS

As per Smita Jadhav, the leading PCOS gynecologist in Kolkata, signs of PCOS may include:

Missed, irregular, or very light periods
Enlarged ovaries or ovaries with multiple cysts
Excess body hair, particularly on the chest, stomach, and back (hirsutism)
Weight gain, especially around the abdomen
Acne or oily skin
Thinning hair or male-pattern baldness
Infertility
Skin tags, small extra growths on the armpits or neck
Dark or thickened patches of skin on the back of the neck, under the breasts, or in the armpits

If you experience any of these PCOS symptoms in Kolkata, make sure to reach out to Dr. Smita Jadhav, the leading gynecologist.

What is Abnormal Menstruation?

Abnormal menstruation, or menstrual irregularity, refers to any deviation from a regular menstrual cycle. While variations in menstrual patterns are common, abnormal menstruation involves significant deviations in frequency, duration, or intensity. This condition can manifest in various ways, disrupting the usual rhythm of a woman’s menstrual cycle and, in some cases, leading to other, more severe health concerns.

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Causes of PCOS

The exact cause of PCOS is unclear, but several factors may contribute:

Types of PCOS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can manifest in various forms, each with distinct underlying causes and symptoms. Here’s an elaboration on the main types of PCOS:

What is Abnormal Menstruation?

How is PCOS clinically diagnosed?

Since some PCOS symptoms overlap with other health conditions, additional tests may be recommended, such as:

Ultrasound

This imaging test uses sound waves and a computer to create pictures of your blood vessels, tissues, and organs. It helps assess the size of the ovaries and check for cysts, as well as measure the thickness of the uterine lining (endometrium).

Blood tests

These tests check for elevated levels of androgens and other hormones. Your provider may also test your blood glucose levels, along with cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

What are the treatments for PCOS?

Treatment for PCOS depends on various factors, including your age, the severity of your symptoms, your health, and whether you plan to become pregnant in the future.

If you plan to become pregnant, your treatment options may include:

Diet and lifestyle changes

Adopting a healthy diet and increasing physical activity can help with weight loss, reduce symptoms, improve insulin sensitivity, lower blood sugar levels, and potentially help with ovulation.

Ovulation-inducing medications

These medications can help stimulate the ovaries to release eggs. However, they carry some risks, such as an increased chance of multiple births (twins or more) and ovarian hyperstimulation, which can cause bloating and pelvic pain.

If pregnancy is not a goal, treatment may include:

Birth control pills

These regulate menstrual cycles, lower androgen levels, and help reduce acne.

Medications for other symptoms

Certain medications can be used to treat specific symptoms like excessive hair growth or acne.

Diet and lifestyle changes

Similar to the approach for those seeking pregnancy, a healthy diet and increased physical activity can help manage symptoms, improve insulin function, and lower blood glucose levels.

Diabetes medications

These are often prescribed to reduce insulin resistance in PCOS. They may also lower androgen levels, slow excessive hair growth, and promote regular ovulation.

PCOS Complications

Complications of PCOS may include:

Infertility
Gestational diabetes or high blood pressure during pregnancy
Miscarriage or premature birth
Metabolic syndrome — a group of conditions, such as high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels, that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease
Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes
Sleep apnea
Endometrial cancer (cancer of the uterine lining)