How to move forward after being diagnosed with PCOS?
The health of women is closely related to the regularity of the menstrual cycle, which can reveal a lot about the state of the reproductive system. The absence of menstruation, especially when it occurs after taking contraceptives, can raise many questions. Disruption of hormonal balance, such as the appearance of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can be particularly concerning, as the syndrome affects not only the menstrual cycle but also other aspects of women’s health.
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects the functioning of the ovaries. Affected women often experience irregular menstrual cycles, as well as other symptoms related to hormonal imbalance. These problems may often remain hidden until the woman experiences more serious complaints. Medical advice and appropriate treatment can help improve the situation.
Establishing a diagnosis and knowing the appropriate treatment options is essential for women to regain their health and vitality. PCOS represents a wide spectrum of problems affecting the female reproductive system, which requires a complex approach during treatment.
Diagnosis and Treatment of PCOS
The diagnosis of PCOS requires laboratory tests that help confirm the presence of hormonal disorders. After establishing the diagnosis, it is important to begin appropriate treatment, as PCOS cannot currently be permanently cured. However, with the right medication therapy, symptoms can be significantly reduced, improving the quality of life for affected women.
One of the main goals of treatment is to reduce insulin resistance, which is often associated with PCOS. To this end, metformin-based medications are recommended, which have also been effective in treating diabetes. The effects of metformin typically begin to manifest after a few months, and most women experience positive changes, such as the normalization of monthly bleeding, improvement in skin condition, and weight loss.
In some cases, however, metformin does not yield the expected results, and the menstrual cycle continues to be absent. In such situations, other medications, such as glitazones, can be tried, which also serve to treat insulin resistance. During medication treatment, the gynecologist recommends continuous monitoring to ensure that the effectiveness of the therapy and potential side effects can be detected in a timely manner.
Medication Options for Alleviating PCOS Symptoms
Women living with PCOS have various medication options available, depending on whether they are planning a pregnancy or not. Those who do not wish to pursue childbearing can use several prescription hormonal preparations to reduce symptoms. These include progestin derivatives, which can artificially induce menstrual cycles.
These medications can help regulate the cycle and restore regular bleeding, contributing to the restoration of hormonal balance. However, it is important to note that hormonal treatments can also have side effects, so their use should be conducted under medical supervision.
Women planning a pregnancy can use various medications to stimulate the ovaries. Doctors often recommend medications containing clomiphene, which stimulate the pituitary gland’s function, thereby activating the ovaries. However, it is important that during clomiphene use, the gynecologist performs ultrasound monitoring, as the medication can increase the risk of cyst formation. If clomiphene proves ineffective, other medications that stimulate the ovaries directly or indirectly can be tried.
Characteristics and Effects of PCOS
PCOS is a complex hormonal disease that is associated with the dysfunction of the ovaries. The syndrome gets its name from the appearance of the ovaries, where cysts may develop. However, PCOS does not only affect the ovaries but the entire hormonal system. In women, male hormones, known as androgens, can become dominant, leading to various symptoms.
Symptoms of PCOS include irregular menstrual cycles, weight gain, acne skin problems, and increased hair growth in areas such as the face or chest. Additionally, PCOS can increase the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, making it important for affected women to seek medical help in a timely manner.
PCOS is not just a simple hormonal problem but a comprehensive condition that affects the functioning of various organ systems. Therefore, treatment should consider all aspects of the syndrome, and the appropriate therapy should be tailored to the individual needs of the woman. Alongside medical support, lifestyle changes, such as proper nutrition and regular exercise, can also contribute to improving health and alleviating symptoms.
