Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) | Symptoms, Causes & When to see a Doctor If You Have PCOS | NextMamas.

PCOS or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a hormone disorder of women of childbearing age. In this, the female cannot produce eggs and have cysts in her ovaries. It is not a disease. It is a collection of symptoms and by taking the right measures you can reverse it.

It often begins soon after the first menstrual period at 11,12 years of age but it can develop in later ages like the 20s and 30s.

• Irregular periods or no periods at all.
• Weight gain.
• Infertility /difficulty in getting pregnant.
• Excessive hair growth on the chin and body.
• Acne on the face.

Sign on Ultrasound:

The ovaries may be bigger or cysts can be seen in the ovaries on Ultrasound.

Causes:

The main cause is still unknown but it is observed that obese or overweight females can control hormone imbalances by losing weight.

There are a few questions in the mind of every female related to PCOS here are the answers provided by the team of NextMamas:

Can we get pregnant while having PCOS?

Yes, with PCOS a female can conceive. Although it interferes with growth and egg release it can be controlled with proper medication and weight loss.

Does PCOS lead to Diabetes?

 Yes, PCOS causes insulin resistance which in turn leads to diabetes.

Yes, pregnant females with PCOS can have a difficult pregnancy there may be complications in their pregnancy and the baby can have multiple problems like uncontrolled cholesterol later in age.

See your healthcare provider if you're worried about your periods, if you're having trouble getting pregnant, or if you have signs of excess androgen. These might include new hair growth on your face and body, acne, and male-pattern baldness.

Author: Dr. Iram Gill

Dr. Iram Gill is an MBBS doctor by profession and a Content Writer by passion. She is a mother as well and has observed the health-related challenges faced by mothers and babies. She wants to play her part in increasing access and support for breastfeeding and maternal health problems.