Know what polycystic ovary syndrome is and how to treat it

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders in women of reproductive age. According to the Ministry of Health’s Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, this problem affects approximately 6%-19% of this population.

“PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women of childbearing age. In it, there is the formation of several cysts (small bags full of fluids) inside the ovaries, these cysts contain the immature eggs – which ends up disturbing ovulation and reproduction. menstrual regularity and can make pregnancy difficult,” says Dr. Thais Ushikusa, gynecologist, obstetrician and medical manager for women’s health at Bayer Brasil.

Not everyone who has microcysts has PCOS, as Dr. Evelyn Prete, gynecologist, obstetrician and partner-owner of the Alve Medicina clinic. “It is possible to have microcysts in the ovary and not have the syndrome. To close the diagnosis of the syndrome, we used the Rotterdam criteria, a method used in clinical practice to diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome, updated in 2006”, she points out.

Causes of polycystic ovary syndrome

The specific cause of polycystic ovary syndrome is not yet known. “But, in most cases, the condition appears due to a combination of several factors, such as: physical changes, genetic predisposition, insulin resistance, elevated levels of androgen hormones, among others”, says Dr. Thais Ushikusa.

disease symptoms

According with the doctor. Mauricio Abrão, gynecologist, professor of Gynecology at FMUSP and President of the American Association of Laparoscopic Gynecology, common symptoms of PCOS include:

• Absence or dysregulation of menstruation, with low/non-existent or high blood flow;
• Skin changes, such as the emergence of acne and increased oiliness;
• Weight gain;
• Excess hair;
• Difficulty getting pregnant🇧🇷

However, Dr. Thais Ushikusa explains that symptoms alone are not enough to determine the presence of the disease. “The diagnosis is made through clinical history, physical exams and complementary exams such as hormone dosages and ultrasound”, says the doctor, who adds: “In any case, women need to be aware of the symptoms, as the syndrome can predispose to the development of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, infertility and even endometrial cancer”.

treatment for PCOS

The recommendation for the treatment of this disease varies according to the patient’s condition. But usually it consists of treating the symptoms and preventing complications. “The most indicated treatment is the use of contraceptive pills to regulate the menstrual cycle, sebum production by the sebaceous glands and male hormones”, lists Dr. Mauricio Abram.

There are also ways to circumvent the difficulty of getting pregnant caused by the disease. “For women who suffer from this condition and wish to become pregnant, treatment is done with medications to stimulate egg production, programming the intercourse and assisted reproduction techniques, such as fertilization in vitro”, adds the doctor.

Changes in the patient’s lifestyle are also important. “PCOS is closely linked to obesity and insulin resistance. Typically, weight loss and diet adjustment restore ovarian function,” says Dr. Evelyn Black.

How to preventpolycystic ovary syndrome

Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent PCOS. However, some precautions are recommended. “Since it is a complex endocrine-metabolic disease and, in some cases, with genetic involvement, the women of reproductive age should pay attention to their lifestyle and habits. That is, maintaining the right weight, investing in a healthy diet, practicing physical activity and having medical follow-up”, highlights Dr. Mauricio Abram.