Posted on 06 June 2015 | By Sunnybank Centre for Women | Gynaecology

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is commonly referred to as PCOS. This is a disease that causes infertility and hyperandrogenism. Hyperandrogenism is a manifestation of increased male hormones in a woman, causing increased hair growth, male pattern baldness and acne.
 
The diagnosis of PCOS relies on the following: 

1. Abnormal cycles: Usually irregular
2. Hyperandrogenism: either physical symptoms or biochemical signs on blood tests (or both)
3. Polycystic ovaries (Not diagnostic on its own)
4. Exclusion of other conditions that may cause similar symptoms or signs such as Cushing’s disease

 
PCOS is associated with obesity, type II diabetes, high cholesterol levels, and increased risk of endometrial cancer.
 
At Sunnybank Centre for Women, we can guide you through your various options for treatment. This depends on your desires for fertility, control of your cycles and control of the symptoms associated with PCOS.
 
Weight loss and exercise are paramount steps in your initial treatment. The Combined Oral Contraceptive is a first line therapy to control your periods and protect your endometrium from the possibility of cancer. For the excessive hair growth, a cosmetic approach in combination with the COCP or spironolactone can help improve the condition.
 
If you are experiencing difficulties falling pregnant, you will need to present with your partner and a full assessment of infertility would be done. If PCOS is established as the cause, we can commence you on the appropriate medications to help you with ovulation (clomiphene). Another option for your treatment is laparoscopic surgery to drill very small holes in your ovaries to help stimulate ovulation.
 
At Sunnybank Centre for Women, we will assess and manage your condition in a multidisciplinary manner. We would involve dieticians, physiotherapists and medical physicians to help you achieve your goals.