4 Misconceptions and Truths About POLYCYSTIC OVARIES (PCO)

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What is PCO?

A disease of imbalance between the female hormones i.e. estrogen and progesterone. Since these hormones are responsible for the ovulation therefore what happens next is the growth of small cysts in the ovary. The third component is the insulin resistance which will lead to the increase level of sugar in the blood.

Common misconceptions about PCO:

As with all other diseases there are lots of misconceptions about PCO. I have tried to list few:

PCO is common in old age.
Women with PCO cannot have children.
PCO is common in overweight women.
PCO means that you have to get rid of your uterus.

Truth about PCO!

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is the most common reproductive endocrine disease among women of childbearing age.

Some of the most common symptoms include irregular periods, weight gain, acne and excess facial and body hair. However, severity of these symptoms varies.

Ovulatory infertility is primarily caused by PCOS but it doesn’t imply that women with the condition can’t have children at all.
Most women with PCOS can conceive with some help of fertility treatments. While conception may take more time, the right care and treatment can help.
Very thin and skinny females have the equal chance of having PCOs.
Losing weight will not rid you of this condition. It could however reduce its impact. Research shows that weight loss improves ovulation and as such improves the chances of pregnancy. The body of a woman with PCOS however, releases excessive androgens which can lead to excessive weight gain around the abdomen. This is one of the main reasons that once women are diagnosed with PCOS, they are asked to follow a strict, healthy diet and an exercise regimen.

PCOS is much more than just a syndrome that affects the ovaries.
It is related to female hormone imbalances and metabolic issues that might not be helped by removing reproductive organs.

Approach to PCO:

PCOS treatment focuses on managing your individual concerns, such as infertility, hirsutism, acne or obesity. Specific treatment might involve lifestyle changes or medication.

Your doctor may recommend weight loss through a low-calorie diet combined with moderate exercise activities. Even a modest reduction in your weight — for example, losing 5 percent of your body weight — might improve your condition. Losing weight may also increase the effectiveness of medications your doctor recommends for PCOS, and can help with infertility.

It is a misunderstood disease and we need to read it properly and discuss with our doctor. In the end what matters most is your approach towards it and a good gynecologist! You will find best gynecologists in Lahore, Karachi or any other main city of Pakistan from where you belong by visiting Marham – Find a Doctor.

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Dr. Sadaf Saleem

She is a graduate of Hamdard University first batch. After doing MBBS, she did her PGD in Nutrition and now she is enrolled in Masters in Medical Education. She has been teaching undergraduate medical students for the past 6-7 years. Currently, she is working in Army Medical College.