PCOS, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, is a condition that affects a woman’s hormonal levels. Women with PCOS tend to release greater-than-normal amounts of male hormones such as testosterone. The hormonal imbalance prevents the egg from getting released from the ovary.
To talk more about the causes and symptoms of PCOS, we invited Dr. Madeeha Rashid, one of the top gynaecologists of Pakistan. Moreover, we also requested her to discuss some of the treatment options for PCOS.
Dr. Madeeha mentions that PCOS is spreading like a “volcanic eruption”. Where it’s instances in the developed world is 5-10%, it has a 33% rate of occurring in Pakistan. That means that every 6th woman in Pakistan is prone to PCOS.
The symptoms of PCOS can vary from mild to severe. The surge of male hormones causes the growth of facial and chest hair, oily skin and acne. In addition, some other symptoms include weight gain and infertility concerns. According to Dr. Madeeha, 75% of the patients exhibit menstrual irregularities rather than the above-mentioned symptoms and some 40% of the patients are obese (with a BMI of above 25).
She further mentions that where PCOS is hardly a “100% curable disease”, its symptoms can be treated with the patient leading a healthy life. She suggests three main alterations to lead a PCOS-free life
- Strenuous exercise for 40-45 minutes 5 days a week
- A diet that is rich in lean meat, fruits, green leafy vegetable, nuts, fish and olive oil.
- Getting rid of refined carbohydrates ( white bread, flour baked goods), sodas and sugary snacks from your diet.
Dr. Madeeha suggests prompt treatment for PCOS as it can damage other organs as well and lead to complications such as heart diseases, diabetes, high blood pressure and uterine cancer. Please watch the video below to learn about PCOS in detail.
If you or your loved ones have any health concerns, we strongly advise taking medical advice without any delay. At oladoc, we are committed to serve the community and connect them with the best specialists needed. Here, you can find and book an appointment with the best gynecologist in Karachi , Lahore and Islamabad. You can book appointments via website, mobile app or by calling our helpline at 042-3890-0939. We’re here to keep you active and healthy!
