Polycystic ovary syndrome (متلازمة تكيس المبايض), often referred to as PCOS in clinical settings, is a prevalent endocrine-metabolic disorder affecting women. Whether in the comments section or through private messages, we have witnessed many individuals facing PCOS with confusion, panic, and a sense of being overwhelmed.
In the upcoming blog series, I will strive to provide comprehensive knowledge about PCOS. Here is a guide for your reading:
- What are the three diagnostic criteria for PCOS?
- How are ovarian cystic changes related to PCOS?
- Is PCOS different from polycystic ovaries syndrome?
- Are hirsutism and acne caused by PCOS?
- Diagnosis of PCOS requires having two or more symptoms simultaneously.
- The reasons for the occurrence of PCOS are not clear.
- What medical tests are required for a confirmed PCOS diagnosis?
- قد يعاني مرضى متلازمة تكيس المبايض من مقاومة الأنسولين.
- Both patients and doctors feel frustrated with PCOS.
- How can PCOS patients prepare for pregnancy?
- What are the side effects of drug-induced ovulation?
- What is surgical ovulation induction?
- How can PCOS patients determine if they are ovulating?
- Is it necessary to continue taking birth control pills for an extended period?
- What to do if you feel uncomfortable after taking birth control pills?
- Is a regular menstrual cycle really important?
- If acne does not improve with birth control pills, what should be done?
- Are PCOS patients more likely to have endocrine disorders?
- If unwilling to take birth control pills, can one use a contraceptive ring like NuvaRing?
- How to determine if there is insulin resistance?
- Can PCOS resolve on its own?
- Is premature ovarian failure related to PCOS?
- Is dysmenorrhea related to PCOS?
- Is endometriosis related to PCOS?
- Can PCOS lead to cancer if left untreated for a long time?
- Is polycystic kidney disease related to PCOS?
- Does sexual activity have any connection with PCOS?
- How does PCOS affect pregnancy?
- Is there a connection between ectopic pregnancy and PCOS?
اليوم, we will address the first five questions
- What are the three diagnostic criteria for PCOS?
- How are ovarian cystic changes related to PCOS?
- Is PCOS different from polycystic ovaries syndrome?
- Are hirsutism and acne caused by PCOS?
- Diagnosis of PCOS requires having two or more symptoms simultaneously.
What is PCOS? The definition of PCOS is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Typically, there are several manifestations, but they do not all occur simultaneously in one individual.
- Irregular or absent menstruation.
- Abnormal ovarian findings on ultrasound (cystic changes, although a diagnostic criterion, may not conclusively indicate PCOS, as this can sometimes be a normal physiological manifestation).
- Elevated levels of androgens (male hormones), along with associated symptoms such as excessive and disordered pubic hair growth, and hair growth around the nipples. لكن, the growth of hair on limbs is primarily determined by genetic factors.
Transvaginal ultrasound scan of polycystic ovary
Polycystic ovary as seen on sonography
A diagnosis of PCOS is made when a person exhibits two or three of the above features. It is important to note that diagnostic criteria may vary during different life stages, such as adolescence and reproductive age. لكن, overall, they revolve around these three criteria.
There is a correlation between androgens and cystic changes. Androgens play a role in aggregating dormant follicles. During follicle growth, androgens are involved. عادة, after complete follicle development, androgen levels decrease. لكن, due to elevated androgens, follicles continue to be stimulated, preventing complete development and ovulation. This disruption affects the menstrual cycle, leading to irregular or absent periods.
لذلك, a confirmed diagnosis of PCOS is made when a patient exhibits two or three of these manifestations.