What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic ovaries contain a large number of harmless “cysts”: these are follicles that contain an egg, but have not developed properly. The exact cause of PCOS is not known, but it is thought to be due to a hormonal imbalance: women with PCOS have high levels of LH throughout their cycle.

It is estimated that more than half of women with polycystic ovaries have no symptoms, 1 and some women only discover they have PCOS when they have difficulty conceiving. Symptoms, when present, can vary and range in intensity from mild to severe. They can include irregular periods or no periods at all (amenorrhea), excessive hair growth, oily skin, acne, weight gain and depression.

To diagnose PCOS, a healthcare professional will ask you for your detailed medical history to rule out any other potential causes that may be causing these symptoms. He will also carry out an examination of the pelvis, and an ultrasound may be carried out to detect ovarian cysts, if any; Blood tests are also often done to find out hormone levels.

Infertility due to PCOS can be treated with fertility drugs, such as clomiphene. This PCOS Treatment Pakistan stimulates the pituitary gland so that it releases a hormone, FSH, which then causes a normal menstrual cycle with ovulation. It is also possible to use gonadotropins to directly stimulate the ovary. Other treatments also exist.

Can I use an ovulation test or fertility monitor if I have PCOS?

The short answer is no, because you are likely to get incorrect results. This is because ovulation tests and fertility monitors are not designed for women experiencing ongoing anovulation due to an underlying hormonal disorder, such as PCOS.

Clearblue ovulation tests identify the start of ovulation by detecting an LH surge above a baseline level. Women with PCOS may have elevated baseline HL; the fluctuation in LH concentration may not be enough for the test to detect a peak, and thus ovulation may not be indicated. Or, the basal rate may be so high that it appears the LH surge is already underway: the test will indicate ovulation on the first day of testing.

The Clearblue Digital Advanced Ovulation Test and Advanced Fertility Monitor measure estrogen as well as LH to identify more fertile days than measuring LH alone. Women with PCOS may also have high baseline estrogen levels. These women may then see more “High Fertility” days than expected, or get an incorrect result due to the high LH levels also seen.

If you use ovulation tests or a fertility monitor, you may get unexpected results; We recommend that you seek advice from your healthcare provider.

Treatment

There is no cure for PCOS, but treatments can improve symptoms.

People who have irregular periods, trouble getting pregnant or excessive acne and hair growth should speak to a healthcare professional.

Some symptoms of PCOS Specialist in Lahore can be reduced through lifestyle changes. Eating a healthy diet and getting enough exercise can help reduce weight and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Birth control medicines (contraceptive pill) can help regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce symptoms. Other medicines can reduce acne or unwanted hair growth caused by PCOS.

Treatments for infertility due to PCOS include lifestyle changes, medicines or surgery to stimulate regular ovulation. In-vitro fertilization (IVF) may be used, but it has some risks.