Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, also known as Stein Leventhal Syndrome, is a complex , metabolic disorder characterised by:
- Menstrual abnormalities, an ovulation
- Androgen excess ( Excess of Male hormones)
- Ultrasound findings of Polycystic ovaries
- Subfertility/Infertility
A number of hormonal imbalances & interactions lead to Insulin resistance in many of these patients. The longterm risks are of developing Diabetes, Heart disease, Hypertension, Endometrial cancer etc in later years.
The treatment of PCOS is primarily by Lifestyle modification which includes:
- Diet control - Avoid fatty, oily foods eg Chips, Burgers, French fries, chocolates, cakes, fried snacks etc. Eat more of home cooked, healthy food, containing at least 2 fruits per day, 3-4 vegetables/day.
- Exercise at least 30-45 minutes everyday - Be it Jogging, brisk walking, dance, sports, skipping, aerobics or any other activity of your choice. It should be a moderate, sweat inducing exercise.
- Weight loss - Losing even 5% of your weight can go a long way in resolving your symptoms
If needed, you maybe advised Combined hormonal pills or insulin sensitising medications to treat the hormonal imbalance for a short while ( 3-6 months) but by & large, it should be your lifestyle modification which takes over for complete correction of the situation.
Hair & acne can be managed by medications & cosmetic therapies and fertility enhancing medications maybe needed to treat infertility & promote ovulation ( Egg production)
You should consult a specialist to get a complete evaluation of your condition done in a methodical manner & chalk out a treatment plan in consultation with the experts.