Pcos Basic

Your doctor may prescribe PCOS testing if you are not able to conceive. Diagnosis of PCOS happens if you have atleast two out of these three symptoms:

• Irregular monthly cycles
• High levels of androgens (male hormones) shown in blood tests or by symptoms such as acne, male-pattern balding, hirsutism, excessive facial and body hair and hoarse voice.
• Cysts in ovaries (polycystic ovaries) as shown in ultrasonograph examination or by symptoms such as pelvic pain.

The exact cause of PCOS is unknown. Evidence suggests that genetics plays an important role in PCOS. There are other contributing factors like higher levels of male hormones called androgens (these prevent ovaries from releasing egg and cause irregular menstrual cycles), insulin resistance, unhealthy lifestyle - bad dietary choices, obesity, weakened immune system and stress.

• Infertility
• Irregular or prolonged monthly cycles
• Pelvic pain
• Hair thinning and hair loss, male type baldness
• Excessive facial and body hair
• Hoarse voice
• High blood pressure
• Weight gain
• Oily skin, acne
• Fatigue

PCOS is a complex hormonal, reproductive and metabolic disorder in women which can happen at any stage after puberty. It is a common endocrinopathy caused by androgen excess leading to anovulatory infertility.

Additionally, various long term complications are associated with PCOS like anxiety, depression, obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular diseases and increased risk of developing endometrial cancer.   

It is estimated that one out of five Indian women suffer from PCOS, over half of them may not know that they have it.  

Interpretation

PCOS is an emerging health problem during adolescence therefore promotion of healthy lifestyles and early interventions are required to prevent future morbidities. There is no specific test that would confirm the presence of PCOD or not. Your doctor will assess your family history, menstrual history, various physical examinations like USG of abdomen or pelvic examination alongwith these blood test to collectively diagnose whether or not you have PCOD. The earlier it is detected earlier treatment can be started; However, it is believed that PCOD can not be cured but with appropriate medicine management and life style changes it can be controlled. Also person with PCOD can conceive and have healthy pregnancy provided appropriate precautions and medicines are taken.