Can PCOS Cause Irregular Periods And Hormonal Imbalance?

Approximately one in ten women is affected by either hormonal imbalance or irregular menstrual cycles. Most of these women have the infamous PCOS, also known as polycystic ovary syndrome. Until diagnosed, over half of these women did not know they had this condition.

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal imbalance. This condition leads to small cysts in the ovaries. These cysts may be harmless, but they can lead to infertility, and in some women, they could contribute to diabetes, heart disease, and even other serious health issues. In this blog, let us understand how PCOS causes irregular periods and hormonal imbalance.

What Is PCOS?

PCOS is one of the well-known terms when it comes to women’s hormonal health. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a group of symptoms that occurs due to issues with a woman’s hormones. This syndrome damages the ovaries. Ovaries are the small organs that store a woman’s eggs. PCOS can also affect other parts of the body. This condition is one of the most common ones that affects women who are in their childbearing years.

In certain cases, it may also result in other serious health issues if not treated at the right time. Ovulation occurs when a mature egg is released from the ovary so that it can be fertilized by a male sperm. If that egg is not fertilized, it will be sent outside of your body during your menstrual cycle. In a few cases, a woman might not produce enough hormones to ovulate. When the ovulation process does not occur, the ovaries might start to grow small cysts that are fluid-filled.

These small fluid-filled cysts produce hormones known as androgens. This hormone is excessively found in men and is only found in smaller amounts in women. But women with this PCOS condition have higher amounts.

What Are The Common Symptoms Of PCOS?

One of the causes of irregular periods is PCOS. Polycystic ovary syndrome differs from one person to another. Over time, the symptoms might also change and usually occur without a clear warning. Some of the common signs of PCOS are

• Infertility
• Long, heavy, unexpected, or no periods.
• Excess hair growth on the body and face.
• Oily skin and acne.
• Gaining weight, especially in the belly area.
• Hair thinning and baldness, like in men.

Also, it is important to note that people with this condition also have other health disorders, such as:

• High blood pressure or hypertension
• Type 2 diabetes
• Heart disease
• High cholesterol

PCOS can also cause other illnesses, such as depression and anxiety. Other signs, including obesity, infertility, and unnecessary hair growth, can result in social stigma. This can influence other factors, including relationships, family, work, and social involvement.

What Is The Impact Of PCOS On The Menstrual Cycle?

Hormonal imbalance in PCOS affects women who are of reproductive age. This condition is characterized by a complex interaction between hormonal imbalances that majorly influence the menstrual cycle and overall wellness. This syndrome affects women globally, and irregular periods are one of the first noticeable signs that require proper medical care.

PCOS causes insulin resistance. So, in those who have PCOS, the chance of them acquiring type 2 diabetes is extremely high. So, at the best diabetes hospital in Coimbatore, the medical specialists have years of expertise in treating women with PCOS and managing their symptoms efficiently.

How Can PCOS Be Treated?

1. Insulin-Sensitizing Medicine: These medications will help your body process insulin. If insulin is under control, women with PCOS will see improvements in their menstrual cycles.

2. Hormonal Birth Control: It helps to regulate your menstruation. This also helps get rid of acne and abnormal hair growth.

3. Lifestyle Changes: Consuming a nutrient-rich diet can help maintain a body weight that is healthy for you. It can have a positive effect on healthy insulin levels.

4. Medications to Block Androgen: These help reduce excess hair growth and acne by lowering androgen activity in the body.

5. Drugs to Induce Ovulation: For women trying to conceive, fertility medications can stimulate ovulation and improve the chances of pregnancy.

6. In Vitro Fertilization: If other fertility treatments fail, IVF may be recommended. It is an effective option for women with PCOS who struggle with conception.

7. Surgery: In some cases, a minimally invasive surgery called ovarian drilling may be done. This procedure reduces androgen production and encourages normal ovulation.

Conclusion

PCOS irregular periods are a complex condition that affects not just reproductive health but overall well-being. The irregular periods and hormonal imbalance caused by PCOS can impact a woman’s physical and emotional life. Early diagnosis, a healthy lifestyle, and timely medical care can help manage the symptoms and prevent future complications.

If you are experiencing irregular periods, unwanted hair growth, or unexplained weight gain, then it is due to a hormonal imbalance. Getting hormonal imbalance treatment in Coimbatore  is ideal for accurate diagnosis and comprehensive care.