The term PCOS or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome can be puzzling whenever it comes up during discussions with friends or family. As a gynecologist in Jaipur, I have seen illogical discourses and fear-mongering on the subject. The truth is, 25-30% of women of reproductive age in India have PCOS, and worldwide, this is higher. If you want to understand the condition, you have come to the right place. Together we will explore:
- What PCOS is (no confusing medical jargon)
- Signs of PCOS in females and what to look out for
- The causes of hormonal imbalance
- PCOS treatment plans
- How to find the best gynecologist for PCOS
Let’s Understand PCOS
The presence of multiple cysts in medical terminology is called Polycystic. PCOS is a condition in which a woman has multiple cysts in their ovaries. These cysts are nothing but immature egg follicles that are unable to release the egg.
In some cases, a patient can suffer from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) without having multiple ovarian cysts. In layman’s language, PCOS is about hormonal imbalance. Women’s bodies include both female and male hormones/ androgens (normally, the percentage is quite less). However, in PCOS, the male hormone acts up, and interferes with the body’s metabolism and glucose/ insulin control, and disrupts the patient’s life.
How to spot PCOS symptoms in females?
PCOS never shows the same symptoms in two patients. However, you should look out for the following issues:
Irregular or no periods
- Is your monthly cycle irregular and unpredictable?
- Do you have fewer than 8 periods in a year?
- Does your period stop suddenly for months?
- Do you experience heavy flow?
All these are major concerns, and they happen when your body is not ovulating correctly.
Higher concentration of male hormones
- Do you have thicker, darker hair on your face, chin, chest, tummy (hirsutism)?
- Do you have frequent acne breakouts? Sometimes, these pimples don’t respond to regular treatments or remedies.
- Are you experiencing hair thinning, hairfall, or loss of hair in patches, similar to male-pattern baldness?
Sudden weight gain
The majority of women struggle with sudden weight gain, mainly in the abdominal region, and cannot lose it, even with earnest exercise. This happens because your body struggles with insulin usage.
Multiple cysts
The ultrasound may show multiple cysts being formed in the ovaries, but this is not a singular symptom to look out for.
Dark patches on your skin
You may see dark patches (Acanthosis Nigricans) on your skin, especially around your armpits, breasts, or neck.
Difficulty conceiving
PCOS interferes with ovulation, and it can cause problems during conception and interfere with family planning.
Tiredness and mood swings
Mood swings are common with hormonal imbalance, and many women suffering from this condition are usually fatigued.
If you are bothered by any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s best to schedule a consultation with a trusted gynecologist in your area, especially if you’re in Jaipur.
What is the causation behind the hormonal imbalance in PCOS?
There is no single trigger that causes this; rather, it’s a combination of different factors.
Heredity and Lifestyle
This condition is inherited by women from their mothers, grandmothers, or aunts. If someone in your bloodline has this, you might acquire it too. Your lifestyle and food habits also play a part in this.
Insulin Resistance
Your body needs glucose or sugar for energy, and you get that from rice, bread, or sweets. Insulin is responsible for ensuring your cells can absorb it correctly. When your body develops a resistance, the cells cannot produce energy. Hence, your body needs to produce more insulin as a coping mechanism. This results in the overshoot of male hormones, which again leads to bulging in the abdominal area.
Inflammation
Sometimes, PCOS is accompanied by low-level yet long-term inflammation. This inflammation may play a role in insulin resistance or hormonal imbalance. Bollywood star Vidya Balan openly discusses this in her diet-related interviews.
How do gynecologists diagnose PCOS?
Are you worried that you might have PCOS? Then you must search for a local gynecologist. They might check for 3 out of 5 criteria before officially ruling it as PCOS.
- Irregularity in periods?
- Percentage of androgens (blood tests and signs of hair loss/ hair growth in uncommon areas)
- Ultrasound of your ovaries
- Rule out thyroid problems
- Blood sugar and insulin levels
- Cholesterol
- Physical examination
Understanding your PCOS treatment options
We don’t have a cure for PCOS, but you can live a long and healthy life with this condition. The PCOS treatment plan needs to be personalized as per your health concerns.
Lifestyle adjustments
Instead of eating processed foods, try to switch to home-cooked meals and a balanced meal plan (carbohydrates, proteins, and vitamins and minerals). Eating complex carbohydrates or slow-release carbs can help your body manage its energy levels.
You must be mindful of the portion sizes of rice and potatoes to ensure your body’s insulin levels. It is important to cut intake of sweets and processed foods and increase fiber intake.
Aside from dietary restrictions, you should exercise and lose 5-10% of your body weight holistically. Yoga and pilates can assist in reducing stress, and try to get 7-9 hours of sleep accordingly. These lifestyle changes can improve your quality of life by boosting your insulin levels.
Medicines
Depending on the severity, a gynecologist in Jaipur may suggest some medicines to control PCOS. Primarily, they prescribe birth control pills, as they can control irregularities in women’s menstrual cycle, and reduce androgen levels. Or drugs like spironolactone can be used to control male hormones in your body (pregnant women cannot consume spironolactone).
Women who cannot consume birth control pills may switch to progestin hormone pills, which should be consumed for a short time each month. Your doctor may suggest Metformin to manage your body’s insulin sensitivity.
Always consult your doctor before starting or stopping any medication.
For hair removal, your doctor might suggest some creams and lotions, or treatments like laser can be used to remove unwanted hair.
If you are planning to begin a family, you should contact a women’s health specialist in Jaipur and take medicines.
How can you search for the best PCOS gynecologist in Jaipur?
PCOS is often linked with type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or cardiac issues. You must visit your doctor for regular checkups, because these conditions are becoming increasingly common in India. If you have questions, don’t forget to ask them to your doctor. PCOS can be mentally draining, so work on your mental health and create a supportive environment around you.
While searching for the best gynecologist in Jaipur on Google, you should consider the following factors:
- The doctor must be knowledgeable about the latest and best approaches and the nuances of this condition
- He/ she should be a good communicator and actively listen to your questions. Go through the reviews on Practo and Lybrate, and figure out which gynecologist will be perfect for your case.
- The expert should look at the whole picture, diet, exercise, medicines, and stress
- You can ask around for recommendations from families and friends, and word of mouth can work wonders.
- Schedule an initial consultation and check if their approach is right
Take the Next Step with a Gynecologist in Jaipur
If you’re in Jaipur and struggling with symptoms of PCOS in females, look for an effective PCOS treatment and support. Understanding what causes hormonal imbalance and the range of PCOS symptoms and treatment options is empowering.
The most crucial step is to consult with a qualified local PCOS expert. They can provide an accurate diagnosis, develop a personalized treatment plan, and guide you towards better health and well-being. Don’t delay in seeking the expert care you deserve. Your health is important, and with the right medical partner in Jaipur, you can manage PCOS effectively and live a fulfilling life.
Are you noticing these signs?
Book an appointment with a PCOS-specialized gynecologist in Jaipur today.
About Dr. Pankhuri Gautam
Dr. Pankhuri Gautam is a renowned gynecologist based in Jaipur, specializing in women’s hormonal health, PCOS management, and reproductive care. With years of clinical experience and a patient-first approach, she is passionate about educating women on their health and empowering them to make informed choices. Dr. Gautam combines modern medical practices with compassionate care to help her patients lead healthier, happier lives.
Frequently Asked Questions About PCOS
What exactly is PCOS, and is it common in India?
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is primarily a hormonal imbalance where a woman’s body might produce slightly more androgens (often called “male hormones”). This, often along with issues in how your body uses insulin, can lead to symptoms like irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth, and difficulties with weight or fertility.
Yes, it’s very common in India. Current estimates suggest that roughly 1 in 5 Indian women (around 20%) may have PCOS, making it a significant health concern.
When should I see a doctor in India if I suspect I have PCOS?
You should consult a doctor if you experience persistent symptoms like very irregular or absent menstrual periods, significant acne or unwanted facial/body hair, noticeable hair thinning on your scalp, or if you’re having difficulty conceiving.
Can PCOS be cured completely, or is it something I’ll have to manage lifelong?
Currently, there isn’t a “cure” that makes PCOS disappear entirely. It’s generally considered a lifelong condition that needs ongoing management. However, the good news is that PCOS is very manageable. Through lifestyle adjustments, medical treatments if necessary, and regular check-ups, you can effectively control the symptoms, reduce long-term health risks, and live a full and healthy life.
I’m worried about starting a family. Can I still have children if I have PCOS?
Yes, many women with PCOS do successfully conceive and have healthy babies. PCOS can sometimes make it more challenging to get pregnant because ovulation (the release of an egg) can be irregular or absent. However, effective treatments are available, ranging from lifestyle changes that can help restore ovulation to medications prescribed by your gynecologist to stimulate egg release.
