This is part II of the series on PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) that Dr Lavina Batra, Life Care Clinic has written. The first article here, covered indicators and diagnosis of PCOD/PCOS where-as this article outlines the treatment approach for PCOD/PCOS.
Background: PCOS is a condition in which women’s hormone levels are severely impacted. This leads to irregular periods and risks pregnancy chances. PCOS interferes with the ovulation process, affects women’s ovaries and its capability to produce correct hormones. Women do not make eggs normally and they either do not get periods or get highly irregular periods than usual. In addition to reducing her chances to get pregnant it also causes depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. If left untreated, PCOS is also known to increase risk of heart disease, metabolism problems, and cause obesity.
Treatment: A person should talk with their gynaecologist if they experience PCOS symptoms. A gynaecologist can rule out other conditions, and depending on the outcome, diagnose PCOS/PCOD. Treatment management typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medical treatment and has an individualised management plan that is best suited to your needs and medical history.
Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise or yoga can help to stay active and control weight gain. Also, staying mindful of stress level knowing when to rest is very important.
Medical treatment: While the lifestyle changes may help, the best way forward to treat PCOS/PCOD is to get checked for cysts and high androgen levels. The use of hormonal contraceptives, metformin, or other medications may be recommended to regulate menstrual cycles, improve insulin resistance, and reduce androgen levels.For women with PCOS who are trying to conceive, fertility treatments such as ovulation induction or assisted reproductive technologies may be recommended. Regular monitoring of hormone levels to check the progress and response to medicine is importantAt high level, treatment approach could be symptom management, preventing complications such obesity, endometrial protection, contraception and help with getting pregnant if this is a person’s goal.
FAQ
Q1: How to conceive with PCOD?
Getting pregnant with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can be challenging, but with proper treatment and support, many women with PCOS are able to conceive.Taking medications: Ovulation induction medications may be prescribed to stimulate ovulation and increase the chances of conception. Seeking fertility treatments: For women with PCOS who are having difficulty conceiving, assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), may be recommended.It is important to work closely with a doctor or fertility specialist to develop an individualized treatment plan that takes into consideration your specific medical history and needs.
Q2: I am unmarried. Will I get PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can affect women of all ages, including those who have not had physical relationship. PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects the ovaries and can cause menstrual irregularities, elevated levels of androgens (male hormones), and the growth of cysts on the ovaries.
Q3: How much time can the treatment take?
The duration of hormonal treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of symptoms, underlying health conditions, and individual treatment goals. Generally, the treatment period can be from 3 months to 1 year based on the criticality.