PCOS Treatment (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disease of reproductive age. In PCOS, one may not have menses regularly or if it does, will last for many days. There is increase of androgen hormone.

Recommended treatment duration is 2-3 years. 
Depend upon the severity of disease.
Expectation is symptomatic improvement in frequency, flow and other ailments of menstrual irregularity.
Will advise USG after 6 months of treatment and later whenever it will be required for comparative purpose or as and when it is required.
Will advise required blood test at required interval.
 
Diagnosis: 

Ultrasound Findings:

In PCOS, many small sacs of fluid develop along the outer edge of the ovary. These are called cysts. The small fluid-filled cysts contain immature eggs. These are called follicles. The follicles fail to regularly release eggs.
 
Symptoms
The symptoms of PCOS vary. A diagnosis of PCOS is made when one has at least two of these:

• Irregular menses. less menstrual periods or irregular are common signs. Menses that last for many days or longer than is typical for a period. Difficulty in conception.  
• Excessive androgen. High levels of the hormone androgen led to excess facial and body hair. This is called hirsutism. Occasionally, severe acne and male-pattern baldness is also there. (Blood levels)
• Polycystic ovaries. Ovaries are bigger. Many follicles containing immature eggs may develop around the edge of the ovary. (USG finding)

Causes
The exact cause of PCOS isn't known: Important factors.

• Increased androgen. With PCOS, the ovaries may produce high levels of androgen. Increased androgen interferes with ovulation. Excess androgen also can result in hirsutism and acne.
• Low-grade inflammation. Research shows that people with PCOS have a type of long-term, low-grade inflammation that leads polycystic ovaries to produce androgens. This can lead to heart and blood vessel problems.
• Insulin resistance. Insulin allows cells to use sugar, body's primary energy supply. If cells become resistant to the action of insulin, then blood sugar levels can go up. This can cause body to make more insulin to bring down the blood sugar level. (Raised serum insulin)

Increased insulin might cause body to make more of the androgen.
It causes difficulty in ovulation.
One sign of insulin resistance is dark, velvety patches of skin on the lower part of the neck, armpits, groin or under the breasts. (Acanthosis nigricans) Increased appetite and weight gain are also signs. (Vicious cycle)
Heredity.  a family history of PCOS 
 
Complications

• Infertility (difficulty in conception)
• Miscarriage or premature birth
• Metabolic syndrome — a group of conditions with high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and raised cholesterol or triglyceride levels that significantly increase risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Pregnancy-induced high blood pressure or (Gestational diabetes) 
• Type 2 diabetes
• Sleep apnea (weight gain complications)
• Depression, anxiety
• Cancer of the uterine lining (endometrial cancer)

 
 
Treatment 
Homeopathic medications.
Counselling and educating about the disease.
Required dos and don'ts. 
Dietary advice and restrictions if any.