7 Myths About Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

1. 7 Myths About Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent hormonal disorder that affects many women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS may have higher quantities of male hormones known as androgens as well as higher levels of insulin, a hormone that aids with blood sugar regulation. However, because the condition is poorly understood- even by some clinicians- misconceptions can influence diagnosis and therapy, ultimately preventing a woman from living well with PCOS. This blog will go through some of the most frequent misconceptions about PCOS. The content is based on information from Dr. Shilpa Bansal Agrawal, a well-known gynaecologist known for providing the best PCOS treatment in Mumbai. Keep scrolling to learn about PCOS and the myths related to it. Before learning about the myths, it is first important to learn what PCOS is and its symptoms. What is PCOS? PCOS is an abbreviation for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. It is a hormonal condition that affects reproductive-age women. In PCOS, the ovaries may develop a number of tiny cysts, which are mature follicles that have failed to release an egg. While the name implies the presence of cysts, not all PCOS women have them. Although the specific cause of PCOS is unknown, it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It is characterized by a hormonal imbalance, including elevated amounts of androgens (male hormones), such as testosterone. This hormonal imbalance can potentially disrupt the normal menstrual cycle, resulting in various symptoms and consequences. Symptoms of PCOS: ● Period Irregularities: Women with PCOS may experience infrequent, extended, or nonexistent menstrual cycles. ● Excess Androgens: Excess androgens can cause acne, excess face and body hair (hirsutism), and male-pattern baldness. ● Polycystic Ovaries: An ultrasound examination may reveal enlarged ovaries with tiny cysts. ● Weight Gain: Many PCOS women gain weight or have difficulties shedding weight. ● Insulin Resistance: Insulin resistance occurs in certain PCOS women, leading to elevated blood sugar levels and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. ● Fertility Issues: PCOS is a common cause of infertility due to irregular or absent ovulation. Common Myths Related to PCOS

2. Here are 7 prevalent PCOS myths and the facts to dispel them: ● Myth 1: PCOS is Solely a Reproductive Condition. Fact: While PCOS is best known for its impact on reproductive health, it is also a systemic hormonal illness that can affect a woman's metabolic function, cardiovascular health, mental health, and other aspects of her health. ● Myth 2: All PCOS Women Develop Cysts in their Ovaries. Fact: Contrary to popular belief, not all women with PCOS have cysts on their ovaries. Cysts are one of the diagnostic criteria, but they are not required for a diagnosis. On ultrasonography, some women with PCOS may have ovaries that appear normal. ● Myth 3: PCOS Exclusively Affects Women Who Are Overweight or Obese. Fact: While weight gain and obesity are typically connected with PCOS, the disorder can affect women of all body proportions. PCOS can affect thin women as well. Weight gain is a symptom or an outcome of PCOS, although it is not a distinguishing feature. ● Myth 4: PCOS is Always the Cause of Infertility. Fact: Although PCOS can contribute to infertility, not all women with the condition are infertile. Irregular or absent ovulation can make it more difficult to conceive, but with the right medication interventions and lifestyle changes, many women with PCOS can successfully conceive and have children. ● Myth 5: The Sole Treatment for PCOS is Birth Control Pills. Fact: While birth control tablets can be recommended to regulate menstrual cycles and manage symptoms such as acne and excessive hair growth, they are not the only choice for PCOS treatment. Treatment programs are tailored to the woman's symptoms, goals, and overall health. Lifestyle adjustments such as diet and exercise, as well as additional drugs, may be prescribed. ● Myth 6: PCOS will Go Away After One Reaches Menopause. Fact: PCOS is a chronic condition that lasts a lifetime. While some symptoms may improve or fluctuate as one gets older, the underlying hormonal imbalances linked with PCOS can last well past menopause. Even after menopause, women with PCOS may need to manage some health concerns, such as cardiovascular disease and metabolic problems. ● Myth 7: If One has an Irregular Menstrual Cycle, one has PCOS. There are numerous causes of irregular cycles, and PCOS is just one of them. The usual cycle lasts 21 to 35 days. Breastfeeding, severe dieting or overexercising, pelvic inflammatory disease, uterine fibroids, and thyroid problems are all potential reasons for an out-of-whack cycle. Stress can also play a role. The takeaway: If one’s cycle lasts fewer than 22 days or more than 34 days, consult your obstetrician or gynaecologist. The doctor can determine the likely cause through an assessment and other tests as needed (such as a blood test to check thyroid levels).

3. These debunked myths should help alleviate common misconceptions about PCOS. Furthermore, Dr. Shilpa Bansal Agrawal, a notable Gynecologist in Mumbai, might be consulted if one is looking for a treatment for PCOD/PCOS or has issues that may be something else but appear to be PCOS. The doctor will do a comprehensive examination to find the right condition for treatment. The expert gynaecologist is committed to assisting women in reversing hormone imbalance symptoms, which are a primary cause of excess weight gain, adult acne, unwanted facial hair, depression, anxiety, and infertility in women, which leads to PCOS/PCOD. To get the most effective PCOS/PCOD treatment, consult Dr. Shilpa Bansal Agrawal at Harleys Cosmetic & Women Clinic.