Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Treatment

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), one of the most common hormonal diseases that directly affects women's health, can cause many health problems, from menstrual irregularity to infertility, from skin problems to excessive hair growth.

PCOS is particularly common in women of reproductive age and can lead to fertility problems, weight control problems and metabolic diseases if left untreated. Therefore, early diagnosis and correct treatment methods are of great importance.

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common female disease that develops due to hormonal imbalances, where multiple small cysts form in the ovaries.

In this syndrome, excessive secretion of male hormones (androgens) in the ovaries causes menstrual irregularity and disruption of ovulation. When ovulation does not occur regularly, follicles that cannot mature in the ovary can accumulate and turn into cysts.

However, not every patient necessarily has to have cysts to diagnose PCOS. In some cases, cysts may not be detected in ultrasound imaging, even if there is a hormonal imbalance and menstrual irregularity.

What Causes Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

The exact cause of PCOS is not known, but hormonal and genetic factors are thought to play a role. Here are the main causes of PCOS:

1. Hormone Imbalance: Increased androgen (male hormone) levels can disrupt ovulation and lead to cyst formation.
2. Insulin Resistance: When the body develops resistance to insulin, blood sugar levels rise, which can cause the ovaries to produce more androgens.
3. Genetic Factors: Women with a family history of PCOS are at higher risk of developing the disease.
4. Obesity and Weight Problems: Excessive weight and fat can disrupt hormonal balances and increase the severity of PCOS.
5. Stress and Lifestyle Factors: Chronic stress and unbalanced nutrition can also negatively affect hormone levels.

What are the Symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

The symptoms of PCOS may vary from person to person. The most common symptoms are:

1. Menstrual irregularity: Menstrual periods may be delayed, irregular or stop completely.
2. Intense menstrual pain: Menstrual periods that are more painful than normal may occur.
3. Excessive hair growth (Hirsutism): Increased hair growth may be seen on the face, chest, back and abdomen.
4. Skin problems: Problems such as acne, oiliness and darkening of the skin may occur.
5. Hair loss: Male-pattern baldness or thinning of hair may occur.
6. Weight gain: Uncontrolled weight gain may be observed especially in the waist and abdomen.
7. Insulin resistance: Irregularities in blood sugar may occur.
8. Infertility: Difficulty in getting pregnant may be experienced due to irregular ovulation.
9. Depression and anxiety disorders: Hormonal imbalances can cause mood swings.

If you have one or more of these symptoms, it is recommended that you consult a gynecologist and obstetrician for early diagnosis.

 

Does Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Cause Infertility?

 

Does Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Cause Infertility?

Yes, PCOS can cause infertility by disrupting ovulation. Irregular or absent ovulation reduces the chance of fertilization.

However, with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment methods, PCOS patients can also get pregnant healthily. Many women can successfully achieve pregnancy thanks to hormone treatments, lifestyle changes and ovulation-supporting medications.

Regular follow-up with a specialist gynecologist is very important during this process.

How is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Diagnosed?

Your doctor may use the following methods to diagnose PCOS:

1. Gynecological Examination: Ultrasound evaluation of the ovaries.
2. Hormone Tests: Measuring androgen, estrogen, progesterone and thyroid hormones.
3. Insulin and Blood Sugar Tests: Checking for insulin resistance.
4. General Health Assessment: Analysis of symptoms such as weight, skin structure and hair loss.

How is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Treated?

Although there is no definitive treatment for PCOS, it is possible to control the symptoms and improve the patient's quality of life.

1. Hormone Therapy

Birth control pills: Can be prescribed to regulate the menstrual cycle and balance androgen levels.
Progesterone supplements: Can be recommended to regulate menstrual periods.

2. Regulating Insulin Resistance

Drugs such as Metformin: Can help with weight control and ovulation by regulating blood sugar.

3. Nutrition and Diet Support

Consuming low-carb and low-glycemic foods can balance blood sugar and control hormone levels.

4. Exercise and Lifestyle Changes

Regular exercise at least 3-4 days a week can relieve the symptoms of PCOS by increasing insulin sensitivity.

5. Ovulation Medications

For patients who want to get pregnant, medications that support ovulation can be used.

The treatment process should be tailored to the patient's complaints and pregnancy plans.