Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age, affecting about 10% of women in this age group.
PCOS consists of a combination of symptoms that affects the ovaries and ovulation.
It is characterized by 3 main symptoms:
Other symptoms can include:
While the exact cause is not known, the symptoms that are associated with PCOS are usually due to hormonal imbalances, excessive circulating male hormones and abnormal levels of insulin.
The polycystic appearance of the ovaries also result in the formation of immature follicles in the ovary which affects ovulation and the menstrual cycle.
Genetics and family history can play a part as well.
Your doctor will take a detailed history and also perform the necessary blood tests and pelvic scans to confirm the diagnosis of PCOS.
Many young women suffering from PCOS often remain undiagnosed despite suffering from menstrual issues for many years as they often hesitate or delay seeking treatment.
If left undiagnosed or untreated, some of the complications associated with PCOS include:
Women with PCOS often have very irregular menstrual cycles as well as problems with ovulation. This will naturally lead to increased difficulty with fertility and getting pregnant.
However, this does not mean that women with PCOS are unable to get pregnant on their own.
The hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS increases a woman’s risk of diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol issues. This risk is perpetuated if the woman is also overweight.
Getting timely treatment can play an important role in significantly reducing this risk.
Women with PCOS are also at increased risk of heart disease at a younger age. This risk is further increased if you are overweight, or if you suffer from diabetes, high blood pressure or cholesterol problems.
The lack of ovulation is one of the key features of PCOS.
Due to the lack of ovulation,hormonal imbalances and abnormal menstrual cycles associated with PCOS, overgrowth of the womb lining occurs which increases your risk of endometrial hyperplasia (pre-cancer of the womb) or endometrial cancer (womb cancer).
Although PCOS cannot be cured, there are a number of treatments that can successfully help to improve symptoms and reduce complications associated with it.
Most women with PCOS are able to lead a normal life without significant complications if they seek timely and appropriate treatment.
Diet and lifestyle is one of the cornerstone treatments for PCOS.
This can be the single most important way to treat PCOS and to prevent all the problems that are associated with the condition.
Firstly, patients who are obese should aim to lose at least 5% of their bodyweight. A healthy BMI of between 20-24 should be what you are targeting.
Losing weight together with an active lifestyle and exercise has been shown to have tremendous benefits for patients with PCOS:
Oral contraceptive pills (OCP) are one of the most useful medications used to manage PCOS. They are effective in regulating your menses, especially for those who experience very irregular menstrual cycles.
Additionally, they also provide the added benefit for birth control for girls who are not ready for pregnancy.
Some types of birth control pills also have properties which can control the male hormones in your body and also reduce acne and improve your complexion.
Other medications that can also help improve PCOS can also include certain diabetic medications or ovulation medications. These medications are known to improve insulin resistance and ovulation in women suffering from PCOS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes you can. While having PCOS can make it more challenging for some women to conceive, it does not mean it is impossible to do so naturally. This is especially if your PCOS symptoms are well controlled.
If you are a female who has been experiencing irregular periods, together with acne or excessive hair growth, it is best to get yourself evaluated by a doctor.
While the exact cause of PCOS is not known, having a stressful lifestyle can definitely exacerbate the symptoms of PCOS and its associated complications.
AUTHOR
Dr Michelle Chia
Medical Director
After graduating from the National University of Singapore, Dr Michelle's journey allowed her to train in Women's Health and Aesthetic Medicine. Her experience has led her to be featured on multiple media platforms including Radio Stations and prominent Magazines like Her World, Women's Weekly and CLEO. Her work has also received recognition both locally and internationally in several Medical Conferences.
Ezra Clinic is a Women’s Health, Wellness and Aesthetic Clinic that is conveniently located at the top floor of Royal Square Medical Suites in Novena, Singapore’s Medical Health Hub.
Helmed by Dr Michelle Chia, Ezra Clinic is your chosen one stop clinic for all your Women’s Health and Wellness needs.
Address
101 Irrawaddy Road #21-09, Royal Square Medical Centre, Singapore 329565
