What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)? How is it Treated?

The ultrasound image of this condition is often compared to a “pearl” due to its appearance, described as “numerous follicles aligned like a pearl necklace in the ovary.”

Questions often arise in our minds: Is this a disease or a syndrome? Does polycystic ovary resolve on its own? Can it be completely cured? Will it go away with weight loss? Does using menstrual regulators help? Can I have surgery for polycystic ovary? So, what exactly is polycystic ovary syndrome? Let’s explore it in detail.

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

PCOS is a serious condition that can cause infertility in women of reproductive age due to hormonal imbalances caused by increased insulin levels. It is diagnosed with symptoms of irregular or absent menstruation, as well as elevated serum testosterone and androstenedione (male hormones).

In patients with this syndrome, symptoms may include:

• Abnormal and irregular vaginal bleeding,
• Infertility,
• Obesity,
• Excessive hair growth, hair loss, and acne.

Alongside clinical and hormonal changes, numerous small cysts about the size of lentils are often found during a vaginal ultrasound examination.

Symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

One of the main symptoms of PCOS is insulin resistance, along with increased fasting blood insulin levels. Hyperinsulinemia leads to elevated male hormone levels, disrupting the brain’s control center for ovarian function and resulting in anovulation (lack of ovulation), amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), and infertility.

Does Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Go Away?

The question “Can polycystic ovary syndrome completely disappear?” often comes to mind for those familiar with the link between PCOS and pregnancy. Unfortunately, it doesn’t fully disappear. However, it can be managed through regular, balanced nutrition, weight loss, medication, or surgical treatment.

Treatment for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Nutrition and Herbal Treatment in PCOS

Diet and exercise play a crucial role in managing PCOS. Weight loss should be a primary goal to increase fertility chances. Regular daily exercise and consuming grains, legumes, and fiber-rich vegetables and fruits help regulate insulin. Avoid processed carbohydrates like sugary drinks, white-flour foods, and rice. Unfortunately, herbal treatments don’t offer a permanent solution for PCOS.

Medication

Initially, treatment aims to stimulate ovulation, often through medication, with birth control pills also being recommended in some cases. In cases where insulin regulation is needed, diabetes medications may be used. These treatments aim to restore harmony in ovaries that struggle to ovulate.

Surgical Treatment in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

If medication proves ineffective, surgical intervention may be considered. Through laparoscopy, small holes are made in the ovarian capsule, increasing ovulation and pregnancy rates within six months following the procedure. Therefore, surgical treatment may be an option for PCOS.

Does it Cause Infertility?

PCOS, a disorder of ovulation with an unclear cause, is particularly associated with infertility issues in women of reproductive age. While waiting for PCOS to go away, women with menstrual irregularities are advised to consult a fertility clinic.

Infertility Treatment in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

For couples with PCOS who wish to have children, weight loss should be the first step, as even a 3-5% weight loss significantly increases the chances of natural conception.