Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Disease Description

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age. In PCOS, the maturation of eggs is impaired due to excessive production of androgens. The volume of the ovary can increase by up to 10 times due to the formation of small cysts.

PCOS occurs in 8-12% of women and is a leading cause of infertility. A significant role in the development of PCOS is played by genetic predisposition at the gene level and the presence of insulin resistance.

Symptoms indicating the need for diagnosis and treatment

The main symptoms of PCOS:

• Menstrual cycle disorders (changes in duration and amount of bleeding, absence of ovulation)
• Hirsutism — male-pattern hair growth (appearance of hair on the face, chest, abdomen)
• Acne
• Hair loss
• Weight gain

Methods of diagnosis and treatment

Diagnosis

The European Society of Reproductology has summarized the main criteria for PCOS: oligoovulation (rare ovulation or its absence), hyperandrogenemia (increased levels of male hormones — androgens), and multiple ovarian cysts according to ultrasound data. If two out of the three signs are present, a diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome is made.

To confirm the diagnosis, biochemical tests are prescribed, namely anti-Müllerian hormone and a blood test for androgen levels.

Treatment

Leading clinics worldwide follow a comprehensive approach in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome. The patient is managed by a whole team of highly qualified specialists, including an endocrinologist and an obstetrician-gynecologist.

There is no universal treatment: for each patient, an individual plan is developed to prevent the formation of cysts. The first in the list of treatment methods is hormone therapy, aimed at reducing androgen levels.

A mandatory condition for recovery is the correction of metabolic disorders. Doctors provide recommendations, the basis of which includes:

• Reducing stress levels
• Changing diet
• Regulating sleep
• Increasing physical activity

Innovations in leading clinics

An advanced method of treating infertility in PCOS is IVF or ovulation stimulation. Ovarian stimulation in the protocol is carried out using special drugs, with an effectiveness reaching 60% (the release of an egg from the ovary occurs). At the same time, the risk of developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is minimal.