PCOS, Polycystic ovary syndrome, PCOS is an uncommon syndrome that affects three in every ten women of childbearing age. A range of non-life-threatening symptoms can suggest PCOS, such as irregular menstrual cycle, acne, facial hair. So, PCOS in an environment like Nigeria can go undiagnosed for years because women use skincare products to manage the symptoms without realizing the greater risk, which could be infertility. Doctors diagnose PCOS through androgen excess, ovarian dysfunction, and polycystic ovarian morphology on ultrasound.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the effect of hormonal imbalance. Hormones in our body regulate and coordinating the complex processes in the body (Women, for this case) like metabolism, growth, fertility, digestion, etc. Hormonal imbalance causes PCOS.

SYMPTOMS OF PCOS

About 70% of women with PCOS go undiagnosed for several years because its symptoms are very similar to the changes that occur during puberty (for adolescents in puberty). Talk to a doctor to get a proper diagnosis.

• Irregular menstruation:

One of the most common symptoms is an irregular menstrual cycle; this varies from irregular or prolonged menstrual cycle to heavy periods and 35 days or more. Sometimes there may also a complete absence of menstruation.

• Increment in androgen:
• Androgen is a male hormone responsible for appearance. Polycystic ovary syndrome increases the amount of androgen, hence will cause excess body and facial hair and severe acne.
• Polycystic ovaries:
• Ultrasound can identify polycystic ovarian morphology.

Treatment options for Polycystic ovary syndrome

There is no specific cure for PCOS, but we can manage symptoms with several lifestyle changes and medications. The following are lifestyle changes that can help manage the symptoms of Polycystic Ovary/Ovarian Syndrome :

• Increase physical activity by being more proactive in walking around.
• Exercising and other intense physical regimes yoga and visit the sports centre regularly. Doctors recommend exercise because it can help reduce many Polycystic ovary syndrome symptoms related to depression/stress inflammation and excess weight.
• Making dietary changes such as in cooperating high-fibre, lots of vegetables, whole grains, and fruits into your diet.
• Manage the symptoms of Polycystic ovary syndrome by making dietary changes like reducing the amount of sugar, processed foods, trans fats, and saturated fats, these changes will help you maintain a stable blood sugar level.
• Avoid smoking.
• There are medications (supplements and anti-inflammatory) that can help manage the symptoms of Polycystic ovary syndrome. Although, there is no general cure that can help the general population. A doctor can design a specific treatment to suit every treatment plan and goals.

Speak to a doctor at your local hospital