PCOS and PCOD treatment in Neelankarai, ECR

What are PCOS and PCOD?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions in women of reproductive age. The ovaries make more androgens (male-type hormones) than usual, and eggs are not released regularly. Many women with PCOS also have insulin resistance, which makes weight gain and blood sugar problems more likely.

PCOD (polycystic ovarian disease) is a term widely used in India for the same picture: ovaries with many small follicles and irregular ovulation. Doctors now usually use PCOS, and the assessment and treatment are the same.

Common symptoms

Symptoms vary a great deal. Some women have only irregular periods; others notice skin, hair and weight changes first.

• Irregular, infrequent or missed periods, or very heavy periods
• Acne that persists beyond the teenage years
• Excess hair on the face, chest or abdomen (hirsutism)
• Thinning scalp hair
• Weight gain, especially around the waist, and difficulty losing it
• Dark, velvety skin patches on the neck or underarms
• Difficulty getting pregnant because ovulation is irregular

What causes PCOS?

There is no single cause. PCOS runs in families, and insulin resistance plays a big part: high insulin levels push the ovaries to make more androgens. Low physical activity, weight gain and stress can make symptoms worse, but slim and active women can have PCOS too.

How PCOS is diagnosed

PCOS is diagnosed when at least two of three features are present: irregular ovulation, signs of high androgens (on examination or in blood tests), and polycystic-looking ovaries on ultrasound. Other causes of irregular periods, such as thyroid problems or high prolactin, are ruled out first.

A typical work-up at Healtree Hospital includes a detailed history and examination, hormone and blood tests (including thyroid, prolactin, blood sugar and lipids), and a pelvic ultrasound, all available on site in Neelankarai.

Treatment and long-term management

Treatment depends on your main concern: regular cycles, skin and hair symptoms, weight, or pregnancy. Plans are usually staged and reviewed every few months.

• Lifestyle changes: regular activity and a balanced diet. Losing even 5 to 10 percent of body weight often brings periods back to a regular pattern.
• Medicines to regulate cycles and protect the lining of the womb
• Medicines that improve insulin sensitivity, where appropriate
• Treatment for acne and excess hair
• Ovulation induction for women trying to conceive
• Regular screening for diabetes, cholesterol and blood pressure, since PCOS raises these risks over time

PCOS in teenagers

Irregular periods are common in the first year or two after periods start, so PCOS is diagnosed carefully in adolescents. If cycles are still irregular two years after the first period, or there is marked acne or hair growth, an evaluation is worthwhile. Early lifestyle support makes a real difference.

When to see a gynaecologist

Book a consultation if your periods are more than 35 days apart, you have fewer than eight periods a year, periods have stopped for three months or more, or you have been trying to conceive for a year (six months if you are over 35) without success.