Right Now
Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Treatment Options
What is PCOS?
Polycystic
ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine system disorder among women of
reproductive age. PCOS is caused by increased androgens or male hormones in the
body which can lead to cysts developing on the ovaries. Signs and symptoms
include irregular or prolonged menstrual periods, excess hair growth
(hirsutism), acne, pelvic pain during intercourse or periods, obesity and
infertility. PCOS affects around 1 in 10 women and is the most common cause of
female infertility.
Lifestyle Changes and Weight Loss
Lifestyle changes aimed at losing excess weight are usually the first-line
treatment for PCOS. Even a small weight loss of 5-10% of body weight can help
improve PCOS symptoms and increase the chances of ovulation and getting
pregnant naturally. The goals are to follow a balanced, low-GI diet and engage
in regular exercise like cardio and strength training for at least 30 minutes
per day on most days of the week. Losing weight helps lower circulating
androgen levels and improves the body's response to insulin. Maintaining a healthy
weight is important for managing long-term PCOS symptoms.
Oral Contraceptives
Oral contraceptives or birth control pills are another effective treatment for
PCOS as they help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce hyperandrogenism. The
combination of estrogen and progestin in birth control pills helps balance
hormone levels in the body. Some common oral contraceptives prescribed for PCOS
include Yasmin, Estrostep, and Ortho Tri-Cyclen. Doctors tend to prescribe
low-dose combination pills to minimize side effects and health risks. Regular
use can relieve acne, excess hair growth, and create predictable bleeding at
the end of each monthly cycle.
Metformin Therapy
For women who are overweight or insulin resistant, metformin therapy may be
prescribed. Metformin is a medication originally used to treat Type 2 diabetes
as it helps control insulin and blood sugar levels in the body. Studies have
found that metformin can help induce ovulation and improve fertility in women
with PCOS, especially when combined with lifestyle changes. The usual dosage is
1,500-2,550 mg per day, divided into two to three doses. Metformin treatment
reduces insulin resistance, lowers androgen hormone levels, and helps regulate
menstrual cycles. Common side effects include upset stomach, bloating, gas, and
diarrhea, which usually subside over time.
Anti-androgen Medications
For women with severe hirsutism and acne caused by high androgen levels,
anti-androgen medications that block male hormone actions may be prescribed.
Common anti-androgen drugs for PCOS include spironolactone and flutamide. These
medications work by occupying androgen receptors in the skin and hair follicles
to minimize their negative effects. Polycystic
Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Treatment significantly improves excess facial or
body hair growth and acne. Doctors will monitor kidney and liver function
periodically for any side effects from these medications. The need for
long-term treatment is determined based on individual symptoms and response to
therapy.
Fertility Treatments
For women struggling with infertility caused by PCOS, fertility treatments aim
to induce ovulation and increase the chance of conception. Lifestyle changes
combined with medication are tried first. If still unsuccessful, fertility
specialists may recommend:
- Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid): This oral medication stimulates follicle
development and ovulation. It is usually the first line treatment to induce
ovulation in women with PCOS.
- Letrozole (Femara): An aromatase inhibitor drug that is sometimes used if
Clomid treatment fails to achieve ovulation or pregnancy.
- Gonadotropins: Injectable drugs containing follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
or both FSH and luteinizing hormone (LH) work directly on the ovaries to
stimulate follicle growth and maturation.
- Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): This procedure involves placing sperm
directly into the uterine cavity around the time of ovulation to facilitate
fertilization when used with ovulation drugs.
- In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): For women who do not respond to other fertility
treatments, IVF with ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval is often successful
in achieving pregnancy with PCOS.
The goal is to find the right individualized treatment plan based on medical
history, test results, and response to prior therapies. With guidance from a
fertility specialist and reproductive endocrinologist, women with PCOS now have
good chances of conceiving with various assisted reproductive technology options
available.
PCOS is a complex condition affecting women's health in multiple ways. By
making lifestyle adjustments, taking medication as prescribed, and considering
fertility treatments when needed, most women are able to gain control over
their PCOS symptoms and regain regular cycles over time. An integrated Polycystic
Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Treatment approach combining diet, exercise and
medications offers the best results for long-term management of this endocrine
disorder. Consulting an endocrinologist helps create a customized treatment
strategy for each individual.
Get more
insights on Polycystic
Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Treatment
Explore more insights on Plastic
Component Market
Unlock
More Insights—Explore the Report in the Language You Prefer
About
Author:
Ravina
Pandya, Content Writer, has a
strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing
well-researched articles from different industries, including food and
beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc.
More Posts
Report This Post
Please complete the following requested information to flag this post and report abuse, or offensive content. Your report will be reviewed within 24 hours. We will take appropriate action as described in Findit terms of use.
