PCOS Treatment

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects hormone levels and can lead to symptoms like irregular periods, excessive hair growth, acne, and fertility issues. The treatment for PCOS focuses on managing symptoms and improving overall health. Common treatments include:

Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise can help manage weight, regulate periods, and improve insulin sensitivity.

Medications:

• Birth control pills: To regulate menstrual cycles and reduce excess hair growth and acne.
• Metformin: To help manage insulin resistance and support fertility.
• Anti-androgens: Medications like spironolactone that reduce male hormone levels, helping with symptoms like hirsutism (excess hair).
• Fertility treatments: For women trying to conceive, medications like clomiphene or gonadotropins may be prescribed to stimulate ovulation.



How do medications help with PCOS symptoms?

Medications can play an essential role in treating the symptoms of PCOS. For instance:

• Birth control pills help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce the risk of endometrial cancer, and improve skin conditions like acne and excess hair growth.
• Metformin improves insulin sensitivity, which can help prevent diabetes and promote regular ovulation, enhancing fertility.
• Anti-androgens like spironolactone block the effects of excess male hormones, helping to reduce unwanted hair and acne.
• Fertility medications assist women with ovulation issues, improving their chances of conception.



When is surgery considered in PCOS treatment?

Surgery is generally considered when other treatments have not been effective, especially for women struggling with infertility. The most common procedure is ovarian drilling, where small holes are made in the ovaries using a laser or electrosurgical needle. This can help restore normal ovulation and improve fertility. Surgery may also be recommended if other symptoms, like severe cysts, are unresponsive to medication.