Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a pathology in which the hormonal background is disturbed. Women with PCOS do not mature eggs and do not ovulate, making it impossible to conceive without medical help.
How the ovaries work. Ovulation
The ovaries are female paired sex glands that produce hormones (estrogens and progesterone) and also store eggs and serve as an “incubator” for them.
In the first half of the menstrual cycle (from day 1 to day 14), eggs begin to mature in special “cells” in the ovaries – follicles. In the middle of the cycle (about the 14th day), the largest follicle ruptures and an egg ready for fertilization is released. This process is called ovulation.
But in some cases, such as in hormonal disorders or polycystic ovary syndrome, the follicle does not rupture and ovulation does not occur.
In “classic” polycystic ovarian syndrome in women, the hormonal background changes: too much luteinizing hormone of the pituitary gland or male sex hormones – androgens are produced. Because of the hormonal imbalance eggs do not mature and do not come out of the follicles. Over time, cysts form in their place – bubbles with fluid that replace the functional tissue of the ovary. In the absence of ovulation, women with polycystic ovaries develop infertility, and menstruation is irregular or absent.
Possible symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome
- Irregular menstrual cycle, delayed or absent menstruation for a long period of time;
- Increased amount of hair in places that are not typical for women, such as the face, arms, lower abdomen – the so-called “male pattern of hair”;
- Oily facial skin, acne formation;
- Possible pulling pains in the lower abdomen;
- Overweight, often quite dramatic weight gain for no apparent reason.
Causes of polycystic ovary syndrome
The causes of the development of the disease are not definitively known. It is believed that polycystic ovaries develop against the background of genetic features as a result of the influence of unfavorable factors.
Aggravated heredity is manifested in the violation of various endocrine links. These patients have altered secretion of gonadotropins and insulin, there are disorders of energy metabolism and metabolism of sex hormones. The following are unfavorable factors:
- Inadequate unbalanced nutrition;
- increased fat content in the body;
- sedentary lifestyle;
- stressful situations;
- poor ecology.
Diagnosis of polycystic ovaries
Since polycystic ovaries are a hormonal disease, the gynecologist needs to clearly determine at what level there is a hormonal failure. Therefore, do not be surprised if the doctor prescribes an examination of the thyroid gland, adrenal glands or other organs – they produce hormones, and can be the cause of diseases similar in clinical manifestations to polycystic ovary syndrome.
If polycystic ovaries are suspected, the gynecologist can prescribe various studies necessary to confirm the diagnosis. The most characteristic of these are:
- Ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs
- Blood tests for certain hormones
- Blood tests for biochemical parameters
Treatment of polycystic ovaries
For each patient, an individualized treatment plan for polycystic ovaries is developed according to clinical manifestations, laboratory results, and reproductive plans. The therapy of polycystic ovaries requires attention, since it is associated with a high risk of developing associated diseases.
Goals of polycystic ovary syndrome treatment:
- menstrual cycle restoration;
- restoration of reproductive potential;
- correction of metabolic disorders;
- treatment of skin manifestations;
- prevention of associated pathology.
Much attention in the treatment of polycystic ovaries is paid to lifestyle modification, which includes regular physical activity and a nutritionally balanced diet. The result of treatment is achieved by a combination of drug therapy, maintaining an optimal weight and a healthy lifestyle.
Conservative treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome
First-line drug therapy includes the prescription of combined hormonal contraceptives. These include oral contraceptives, hormonal patches, and intravaginal rings. Preparations containing estrogen and progestin reduce the production of androgens. Regulation of hormone levels reduces the risk of endometrial cancer, eliminates irregular bleeding, acne, excessive hair growth, and helps manage polycystic ovaries.
If the patient is planning a pregnancy in the near future, the doctor can prescribe her a drug to stimulate ovulation.
In the case of the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus on the background of polycysticism, doctors prescribe sugar-reducing drugs.
Surgical treatment
Surgical treatment is aimed at reducing excessive cystic altered ovarian tissue in order to restore ovulation. Laparoscopic techniques are preferred.
Prevention of polycystic ovary syndrome
There is no specific prevention of the development of polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Women are advised to keep a calendar of menstrual cycles, monitor their regularity. Have a preventive examination with a gynecologist once a year and immediately contact him if the cycle is broken, regular delays, prolonged non-pregnancy (more than a year without contraception).
To avoid complications of polycystic ovary syndrome, it is recommended to follow a healthy lifestyle, control weight, monitor the cardiovascular system, cholesterol and blood glucose levels.
Conclusion
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal disorder that affects a woman’s reproductive and general health. It is accompanied by ovulation disorders, menstrual cycle changes, hormonal imbalance and possible metabolic complications.
Diagnosis of PCOS requires a comprehensive approach, including ultrasound, blood tests for hormones and biochemical indicators. Treatment is selected individually, taking into account the clinical picture and reproductive plans of the patient. The main methods of therapy are lifestyle correction, medication and, if necessary, surgical intervention.
Although there is no specific prevention of PCOS, regular follow-up with a gynecologist, a healthy lifestyle and weight control help to reduce the risk of complications and maintain reproductive health.
