From the Guidelines
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular periods, excess androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries, with a prevalence of 8%–13% according to the Rotterdam criteria 1.
Definition and Diagnosis
PCOS is defined as the presence of two of three of the following: oligo/anovulation, polycystic ovaries, and clinical or biochemical hyperandrogenism 1. The exact cause remains unclear, though insulin resistance plays a significant role in many cases, with genetics and inflammation also contributing factors. Diagnosis typically requires meeting two of three criteria: irregular periods, excess androgens (detected through blood tests or physical symptoms), and polycystic ovaries visible on ultrasound.
Symptoms and Complications
PCOS typically manifests through symptoms including:
- Irregular or missed periods
- Heavy bleeding
- Excess facial and body hair
- Acne
- Weight gain
- Thinning hair on the scalp
- Difficulty conceiving If left untreated, PCOS increases risks for:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart disease
- Endometrial cancer
- Infertility
Treatment and Management
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications, including:
- Lifestyle modifications like weight loss and exercise to improve insulin sensitivity
- Hormonal birth control to regulate periods and reduce androgen levels
- Metformin to improve insulin resistance
- Anti-androgen medications like spironolactone for addressing excess hair growth and acne Lifestyle management is the first-line management in the intervention hierarchy in PCOS, with a focus on weight and healthy lifestyle behaviors 2.
From the Research
Definition of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most prevalent endocrine disorders among reproductive-aged women 3, 4, 5, 6.
- It is characterized by hyperandrogenism, anovulation, and polycystic ovaries 3, 4.
Symptoms and Associated Conditions
- PCOS may be associated with other morbidities like diabetes and hypertension 5.
- The condition worsens the life quality of women by disturbing their physiology and psychology in reproductive age 5.
- Symptoms of PCOS include hirsutism, menstrual disturbances, and infertility 4.
Treatment and Management
- Lifestyle changes are suggested as first-line interventions in managing PCOS 3.
- Dietary interventions, such as foods with low glycemic index scores and high-fiber diets, can improve insulin sensitivity and hormonal balance in women with PCOS 3, 5.
- Physical activity, like aerobic and resistance exercise, enhances insulin sensitivity, helps weight loss, and improves metabolic and reproductive outcomes in women with PCOS 3, 6.
- Medications, such as metformin, clomiphene citrate, and gonadotrophin therapy, may be used to induce ovulation, reduce androgen levels, and improve fertility outcomes 4, 7.