PCOS refers to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, it is a hormonal disorder that causes enlarged ovaries with the development of small cysts on the outer edges. This disorder is highly prevalent in women of a reproductive age. The cause of PCOS is not properly determined by doctors; however, a few genetic and environmental factors might be responsible for its development.
Symptoms might include abnormal, absent or heavy menstruation, weight gain or obesity, excessive hair growth on face or body, acne, hair fall, depression, infertility or dark patches on the skin. Women with PCOS have an increased level of a hormone called androgens that is responsible for the disorder and the associated symptoms.
Possible Causes of PCOS
The reasons responsible for the development of PCOS is not properly known as of now; however, there might be certain factors responsible:
- Excessive Production of Androgens – The presence of excessive hormone androgens, is linked to the development of PCOS. These hormones may interfere with the regular process of ovulation which delays the development of the eggs in the ovaries resulting in infertility.
- Resistance to Insulin – Insulin is important for regulating the blood sugar level in the body. When the cells develop a resistance to insulin, the blood sugar level rises. In order to bring down the blood sugar level, the body produces more insulin that results in the production of the male hormone androgen responsible for causing PCOS.
- Heredity – Some researches suggest the development of PCOS linked to a family history of the disorder.
Symptoms Associated with PCOS
Women with PCOS might experience a range of symptoms:
- Irregular, Absent or Abnormal Menstruation – Women suffering from PCOS might experience irregular, absent or abnormal periods. Any disruption in the normal cycle of menstruation such as a period that occurs after several months or within a few days after the last cycle or not having periods for months together is linked to the presence of PCOS.
- Infertility – One of the most common symptoms of PCOS includes infertility among women. PCOS is responsible for delaying ovulation to a large extent that basically leads to difficulties in conceiving or infertility.
- Hyperandrogenism – Refers to the excessive production of the male hormone called androgens. All women have these hormones but women with PCOS have an excess of these hormones that result in unsuitable male features and unwanted hair growth.
- Acne – Women suffering from PCOS might experience a growth of excessive acne on the face and other parts of the body.
- Weight Gain – Women suffering from PCOS gain a lot of weight or are already obese.
- Depression – Excessive production of androgens might interfere with the hormonal balance of a woman and cause anxiety, mood swings and depression .
Is PCOS Going to Affect Your Pregnancy?
PCOS is a condition that interferes with the body’s natural and timely occurrence of ovulation by delaying the production of eggs in the ovaries. This condition affects multiple women around the world and makes it very difficult for them to conceive. PCOS pregnancy related issues have increased to a large extent over the years. There is however no need to lose hope, as this disorder can be treated by introducing healthy lifestyle changes and following your doctor’s advice.
PCOS Pregnancy Possible Complications
There are a number of complications associated with PCOS pregnancy that must be considered:
- Miscarriage – Some women suffering from PCOS might develop a chance of possible miscarriage. This however does not always happen and might occur in rare scenarios. Following your doctor’s advice might prevent this from happening.
- Preeclampsia – Women suffering from PCOS might develop preeclampsia which refers to the sudden occurrence of high blood pressure characterised by the swelling of feet and face. Preeclampsia might occur during or after the 20th week of pregnancy and can be treated and eliminated successfully.
- Premature Birth – PCOS pregnancy is also at a high risk of premature birth. Babies are likely to be born before 37 weeks.
- Mood Swings – Mothers suffering from PCOS are likely to develop mood disorders such as anxiety and depression due to the presence of excessive androgen hormones.
Is it Possible to Conceive With PCOS?
The answer is yes! It is possible to conceive with PCOS. Over the years with the help of lifestyle changes and several infertility treatments it has become possible to solve PCOS pregnancy related issues. PCOS is treatable and women can conceive if they follow a certain set of disciplinary health rules and their doctor’s advice in order to aid issues related to PCOS pregnancy.
Ways to Improve your chances of PCOS Pregnancy
Conceiving with PCOS conditions can be a little complicated and might cause a delay but who said it’s impossible? There are certain ways by which you can increase your chances of pregnancy:
- Consult Your Doctor – The presence of high levels of androgens interfere with the process of ovulation that results in pregnancy complications. Women can consult their doctors or fertility specialists for the right kind of medications and doses required.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight – Exercising and maintaining a healthy weight is essential for fertility as some form of physical activity will induce the production of ovulation friendly hormones. This will definitely result in improved fertility and higher chances of pregnancy.
- Eat a Healthy and Balanced Diet – Eating a diet rich in all types of nutrients is very important for inducing fertility. Foods rich in zinc, vitamin D, calcium, low calories, proteins and fibre etc. are great ways to stimulate ovulation friendly hormones and improve the chances of pregnancy.
- Stay Positive – Never lose hope and never foster negative thoughts in your mind. Your body listens to what you feed your mind. Staying positive and reducing stressors may help a lot. For a healthy pregnancy it is very important to first have a positive mindset. You might not be aware of the power of your subconscious mind so try to feed it positive thoughts only.
Health Care Facilities You Can Choose for the Consultation and Treatment of PCOS:
1. Gini Health, Mohali
They are a healthcare facility located in sector 69, Mohali, Punjab. They have a team of professionals who are always available to help and guide you through your PCOS treatment. It is equipped with all latest technologies that help in easy and efficient determination of all your PCOS issues and symptoms related to it. Their team of doctors and fertility specialists will continuously guide you through the process of PCOS treatment by keeping records and regular checks. They customise health routines depending on your symptoms and also build a healthy diet chart for better results. Health experts at Gini health are reputed for following all hygiene and safety protocols efficiently.
2. Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi
Another facility for your PCOS disorder is New Delhi’s reputed Indraprastha Apollo Hospital. They have multiple natural and surgical remedies available for the treatment of PCOS. Their doctors are very experienced and will guide you to achieve your desired health goals. They are equipped with all the latest technologies and have experts and specialists on their team to aid the patient’s PCOS disorder.
PCOS is completely manageable and with your doctor’s advice and guidance you can enhance your chances to conceive. Women suffering from PCOS experience difficulty and complications in conceiving and often end up losing hope. But with proper medical guidance and by following a number of lifestyle changes, it is completely possible to conceive and deliver a healthy infant.