Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder which is a leading cause of infertility in women. PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women in their reproductive age. It starts during adolescence but symptoms may vary over time. Generally, irregular menstrual cycle is considered to be a major symptom of PCOS but it can also occur to you even if your menstrual cycle is not irregular.
Confused? To clear your confusion, OnlyMyHealth team interacted with Dr Apurva Gupta, Consultant, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Daffodils by Artemis, East of Kailash, New Delhi.
PCOS is most prevalent in India with nearly 8-13% being affected by the condition and above 70% cases remain undiagnosed worldwide, as per World Health Organization. PCOS is associated with a variety of long-term health problems that affect physical and emotional wellbeing.
According to Dr Gupta, PCOS is a hormonal disorder that causes enlargement of ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges. “In this condition, the ovaries produce an abnormal amount of androgens, male sex hormones that are generally present in women in small amounts. Typically, in PCOS, numerous small cysts form in the ovaries. However, not all women with this disorder develop cysts,” Dr Gupta said.
Also read: 5 Lifestyle Strategies for Managing PCOS Symptoms; Know From Expert
PCOS And Regular Periods
When asked if it is possible to have PCOS even if your periods are regular, Dr Gupta said, “Yes, it is possible to have PCOS even if you do not have irregular periods. This is possible when a woman has high androgen levels and enlarged ovaries with cysts. Women with regular periods but with symptoms like acne, facial hair growth, obesity and trouble in conceiving can have PCOS.”
Apart from irregular periods and enlarged ovaries with cysts, other symptoms of PCOS include excessive body hair, facial hair growth, weight gain, acne or oily skin, hair thinning and infertility.
How Is PCOS Diagnosed When Your Periods Are Regular
Irregular menstrual cycles being the major symptom of irregular periods, it is difficult to diagnose PCOS, although it is possible. Dr Gupta said, “To diagnose PCOS if your periods are regular, you need to know whether you have enlarged ovaries with cysts or you have high androgen levels. Furthermore, you must pay attention to other symptoms of PCOS like difficulty in conceiving, facial hair growth, weight gain, oily skin and acne.” PCOS can also be diagnosed with the help of blood tests.
Also read: Suffering From PCOS? Follow These Diet Tips To Prevent Your Risk Of Getting Diabetes
Effective Ways To Manage PCOS
There are several ways that can help you in the management of PCOS. Dr Gupta helped us with a few tips and points.
- Make sure you take a balanced diet that is enriched with all the vital nutrients and vitamins.
- Refrain from consuming junk and oily food.
- Keep yourself well hydrated by drinking adequate water.
- Take proper rest and sleep.
- Stay physically active by regularly exercising.
- Manage stress by practicing mindfulness, yoga and meditation.
Following all these steps can significantly help in managing PCOS.
(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. We advise you to contact your doctor or healthcare professional if you have any period related problems.)