Understanding PCOS: Advice from an Obgyn for PCOS
There are many issues that women are faced with throughout their lives. Early detection of some of these issues can help you lead a better life. Today we are going to look at a condition that many women experience. The purpose of this article is to inform and help you understand this condition.
When you are experiencing problems with your periods, fertility, acne, excessive hair, or weight gain, an Obgyn PCOS specialist or obstetrician-gynaecologist may say that these are caused by polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a hormonal disorder that may be a result of genetic and environmental factors. The disorder causes growth of the ovaries with minor cysts on the outer edges.
What An Obgyn Has To Say About PCOS?
PCOS happens when a woman’s body produces more androgens, which are male hormones, excessive insulin or develops low-grade inflammation. Environmental factors such as when a woman is overweight and does not get enough exercise, or if there’s a history of the disease, contributes to and can result in developing the disorder.
Symptoms Of PCOS
If you are in your late teens or early 20s, there is a chance you could experience symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), so it is essential to visit an Obgyn for PCOS when you suspect you may have the disorder.
Note from our Obgyn: Not all women will experience the same PCOS symptoms, and each case will vary from mild to severe. In some cases, women will experience menstrual problems, issues with conceiving, or both.
Here are the symptoms to look out for:
- Irregularities with the menstrual cycle or not going on your periods at all
- Irregular ovulation or failure to ovulate leading to difficulties with pregnancy
- Hirsutism, experiencing excessive hair growth around the face, chest, back or buttock
- Excessive weight gain
- Acne or oily skin
Common Misconceptions About PCOS
- Conception: Having PCOS does not mean you cannot get pregnant. Despite being a common cause of infertility, many women with PCOS can conceive naturally with treatment.
- Cysts are not a requirement: It is a misunderstanding that cysts are necessary for a PCOS diagnosis. You can have it without polycystic ovaries.
- It affects all body types: The idea that PCOS only affects overweight women is incorrect. Women of all shapes and sizes can have PCOS.
- Not caused by lifestyle: Unhealthy lifestyle choices are not the cause of PCOS. It is a complex hormonal imbalance. Unhealthy lifestyle choices can worsen the symptoms.
- PCOS is common: Contrary to the belief that PCOS is rare, it is actually one of the most prevalent hormonal endocrine disorders in women of reproductive age.
- PCOS and menopause: PCOS does not simply go away during menopause, though symptoms may change over time.
Treatment and Management Options
Embarking on the journey to manage PCOS necessitates a tailored approach, recognising the uniqueness of your condition. Your treatment plan will be developed to meet your specific needs, potentially incorporating the following:
- Lifestyle adaptations: Dietary and exercise modifications are fundamental interventions in managing PCOS. A personalised nutrition and physical activity regimen can significantly enhance not just your symptoms but your overall health as well. These lifestyle adjustments aim to achieve a healthy weight and improve insulin sensitivity, marking essential strides in your path toward recovery.
- Hormonal equilibrium: Restoring balance to your hormonal levels is often a critical component of management. Strategies designed to regulate your menstrual cycles or alleviate specific symptoms such as acne or hair loss can empower you to regain control over your body and boost your self-confidence.
- Navigating fertility: If your dream includes starting or expanding your family, your journey through PCOS may include fertility treatments. Your Obgyn PCOS specialist will guide you through the process.
- Mental health support: PCOS’s impact extends beyond physical symptoms, often also affecting mental health. If you are experiencing anxiety or depression, you are not alone. Whether through counselling or the support of communities, prioritising your mental wellness is crucial.
Long-Term Health Implications of Untreated PCOS
If left untreated, PCOS can pose significant long-term health risks. Among these, the increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes is prominent as insulin resistance is common. This resistance can escalate if not managed, paving the way for diabetes.
Cardiovascular disease risks also increase with PCOS, driven by high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, and metabolic syndrome. Furthermore, irregular menstrual cycles and ovulation issues heighten the risk of endometrial cancer.
Fortunately, a PCOS diagnosis is not all doom and gloom! Proactive treatment and management of PCOS can dramatically reduce these risks, leading to a healthy prognosis in the future.
Why It’s Important To Get Help From An Obgyn For PCOS
An obstetrician-gynaecologist is the best person to consult whenever you suspect you may be developing PCOS or are experiencing any of the above symptoms. Menstrual and fertility issues are common in most women and are often the first red flag of PCOS. For that reason, an Obgyn for PCOS may continue treating you or refer you to an endocrinologist, to carry on with your care.
Obgyns are the best people to treat PCOS, but it is also up to you to seek the help you need as soon as you suspect any issues. At Obgyn Durban, Dr L Augustine and Dr N Parikh are Obgyn PCOS specialists with years of experience helping women overcome this disorder. Browse our website to learn more about our services and contact us to book a consultation today!