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 being released from the ovary. PCOS awareness hence has become very important.
To talk more about the causes and symptoms of PCOS, we invited Dr. Madeeha Rashid. Dr. Madeeha is a leading FCPS qualified gynecologist who has 19 years of experience in the field of gynecology. In her interview with Oladoc, she talks about a growing healthcare problem in women; Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. She talks about the causes, symptoms, precautions and treatment options available for PCOS syndrome.
Q.1. What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome?
PCOS is spreading like “volcanic eruption” in young women these days. 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.
PCOS, its full form known as, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, is a hormonal disorder. This hormonal imbalance makes prevents the release of the egg from the ovaries ( the female reproductive organ), thereby making it harder for the woman to get pregnant.
Q.2. What are the symptoms of PCOS?
Well, the symptoms of PCOS may be mild to moderate. When we perform an ultrasound, we can detect cysts ( fluid sacs in ovaries) in about 25% of the ladies. However, not all PCOS women have cysts in their ovaries. I would say that one of the major symptoms, and one that 75% of PCOS women have are irregular periods.
In 40% of the cases, women become obese. Hirsutism, which is male pattern hair growth is also seen. It results in excessive amounts of dark, thick hair on body areas where men typically grow hair — face, chest and back.
Skin becomes oily that may cause acne.
Problems in conceiving may also occur.
Q.3. How do you diagnose PCOS?
To diagnose PCOS, we need to know the patient’s clinical history, some lab tests and ultrasounds. There is no single specific PCOS test that we do. We ask the patient about their menstrual cycle, do some hormonal tests, do a physical exam and then form a comprehensive picture.
Q.4. What are some dangers of PCOS?
Like I mentioned before, PCOS doesn’t just affect a woman’s reproductive organs, but also other organs. PCOS can damage other organs and lead to complications such as heart diseases, diabetes, high blood pressure and uterine cancer.
Q.5. Does PCOS affect your chances of getting pregnant?
Yes, surely, PCOS is one of the main causes of infertility in women of Pakistan. The hormonal imbalance prevents the release of the egg from the ovary, making it difficult for women to get pregnant. In 75% of the cases, PCOS can cause infertility in women.
If you want to learn more about PCOS, you watch her full interview. Moreover, if you have any health concerns, consult a gynecologist. You can find and book an appointment with the best gynecologist . You can book appointments via the website, mobile app or by calling our helpline at 042-3890-0939.
