With obesity becoming a bigger problem at a global stage with each passing stage, more and more women are developing Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). While this hormonal disorder is more common among women of reproductive age, adolescent PCOS is now becoming more commonplace too. So how does one work around this hormonal imbalance and its subsequent side-effects?

Dhani’s Senior Strategist, Prakhar Khandelwal spoke to Dr. Poonam Gedam about this situation, who helped us in understanding the issue at hand, the various symptoms, and the precaution & prevention tips that all women need to practice.

Dr Poonam Gedam, is an MBBS, has a PG Diploma (Maternal and Child Health), Diploma (Obstetrics and Gynaecology) and has several years of experience working in both private and public hospitals. She has previously worked as a medical officer at Rajabhai Patel Blood Bank, and as a research officer at Safdarjung hospital and in the capacity of a consultant with various Multispecialty hospitals. She has also written multiple Books on PG Residency Made Easy in Medical Subjects.

PK: Could you tell what PCOS is? Why is this important?

Dr: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder which commonly occurs in women of reproductive age. Ovaries in women with PCOS can develop many small collections of fluid called cysts or follicles and these leads to failure to release eggs regularly during the cycles. This results in infrequent or prolonged menstrual cycles.

It is important to know about PCOS and manage it early due to its impact on reproductive health- women with PCOS may have difficulty conceiving. Also, there can be a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels leading to something called as metabolic syndrome.

PK: How does one know that one has this condition? What are the signs and symptoms of this condition?

Dr: Women with PCOS can present with a variety of symptoms. The most common symptom is irregular menstrual cycles. Infrequent, irregular or prolonged menstrual cycles are the most common sign of PCOS. PCOS also results in elevated levels of male hormones or androgens in the woman and this may lead to certain physical signs, such as excess facial and body hair (hirsutism), and occasionally severe acne and male-pattern baldness.

Women may notice these symptoms developing around the time of the first menstrual period during puberty. However, PCOS can also develop later in response to substantial weight gain.

PK: Are there any particular tests that can help with the diagnosis?
Dr: The basis of diagnosis would be a good medical history and a physical examination for changes related to PCOS, so it is important to get in touch with your doctor as soon as you notice any symptoms. Your doctor will then recommend some blood tests such as a hormonal levels profiling, tests of your blood sugar and lipid levels as well. An ultrasonography of your abdomen and pelvis is usually advised to check on the ovaries and uterine lining.

As this condition is chronic, these tests may be recommended on a periodic basis by your doctor to check on progress.

PK: Can PCOS be cured? Is it treatable?
Dr: PCOS cannot be cured but the symptoms and signs can be managed. There are different medicines which treat symptoms such as irregular periods, acne, excess hair, and elevated blood sugar. For helping with infertility issues too, there are many modalities available.

It is important to note that losing as little as 5% excess weight can help women ovulate more regularly and decrease the symptoms of PCOS. So a healthy diet and regular exercise are key to managing symptoms of PCOS.

PK: Is there anything else you would like to share with our listeners?

Dr: Thank you for listening. If you have any queries, please reach out to any of our experience gynecologists on the Dhani doctor panel who will be able to help you with your concerns related to PCOS or any other gynecological condition.

VB: Dhani Doctors are available 24×7 on the Dhani app for your wellbeing. Download the app today to avail free unlimited consultations for the first 30 days! 

If you have any health-related queries, do write to us at zone@dhani.com or leave us a DM on any of our social media handles. We will make sure to address your questions in our next session.

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