TYPES OF PCOS - Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Описание: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that commonly affects women of reproductive age. It is one of the most frequent causes of irregular periods, infertility, and certain metabolic problems.

🔹 Causes & Risk Factors

The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but several factors contribute:

Hormonal imbalance – high levels of androgens (“male hormones”).

Insulin resistance – body’s cells don’t respond well to insulin, leading to higher blood sugar and weight gain.

Genetics – tends to run in families.

Low-grade inflammation – can increase androgen production.


🔹 Common Symptoms

Irregular or missed periods

Excess hair growth (face, chest, back – hirsutism)

Acne and oily skin

Thinning hair or scalp hair loss

Weight gain or difficulty losing weight

Dark, velvety skin patches (acanthosis nigricans)

Difficulty conceiving (infertility)


🔹 Diagnosis

Doctors usually use the Rotterdam criteria (need at least 2 of 3):

1. Irregular/no ovulation → irregular periods


2. High androgen levels (clinical or blood test)


3. Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound



🔹 Complications if untreated

Type 2 diabetes

High cholesterol & blood pressure

Heart disease

Endometrial cancer (due to irregular ovulation)

Sleep apnea

Infertility


🔹 Management & Treatment

Lifestyle changes: weight loss (5–10% can restore ovulation), healthy diet, exercise.

Medications:

Hormonal birth control – regulate periods, reduce acne & hair growth

Metformin – improves insulin sensitivity

Clomiphene / Letrozole – for women trying to conceive

Anti-androgens (spironolactone) – for excess hair growth


Procedures: Ovarian drilling (rare, for infertility when other treatments fail).


👉 PCOS is manageable but not curable, and early treatment helps prevent long-term complications.