Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, or PCOS is a common hormonal disorder among women who are of reproductive age. Approximately 10% of women experience it, and women from high-risk groups, such Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, are more likely to experience it. The signs and symptoms of PCOS tend to develop around puberty, though they can develop any time. In this write-up, we will discuss what are the first signs of pcos and the treatment options.
what are the first signs of pcos?
1. Irregular Periods
One of the most common early signs of PCOS is irregular menstrual cycles. This includes periods that are lighter or heavier than usual, periods spaced very far apart (oligomenorrhea), or completely absent periods (amenorrhea). The irregular menstrual cycles are caused by hormone imbalances involving oestrogen and progesterone. Missing periods for several months in a row is often what prompts many young women to first seek medical evaluation for PCOS.
2. Excess Androgen Hormones
Women with PCOS tend to have higher than normal levels of male hormones like testosterone. Elevated androgens can lead to excess facial and body hair growth known as hirsutism. Early indicators include new hair growth on the face, chest, stomach, thumbs, and toes. Increased acne and oily skin, especially along the jawline and neck, may also develop as a result of more active sebaceous oil glands caused by male hormones.
3. Weight Gain and Belly Fat
So, what are the first signs of pcos? Gaining extra weight and abdominal fat is another common early symptom of PCOS. This is related to the underlying insulin resistance that drives PCOS metabolic dysfunction. Belly fat and overall obesity create a vicious cycle, as excess fat tissue produces more androgens that further worsen PCOS symptoms.
4. Hair Loss on Scalp
Excess androgens can cause hair loss on the scalp known as androgenic alopecia. Women may notice general thinning of hair or a widening part line early on. As PCOS progresses, the hair loss becomes more significant. The head hair loss stems from the same hormonal imbalance that causes extra hair growth on the body.
5. Skin Darkening
If you are wondering what are the first signs of pcos, skin darkening is another symptom to be aware of. Dark velvety skin patches on the neck, underarms, groin and breasts may develop, medically known as acanthosis nigricans. The skin changes are tied to insulin resistance and are more common in women with obesity. The skin darkening typically has an early onset around puberty when PCOS symptoms begin.
6. Difficulty Getting Pregnant
PCOS is mostly responsible for infertility among women. Missing ovulation and irregular periods make it challenging to conceive naturally. Some young women may suspect fertility problems early if they are sexually active but not getting pregnant as expected.
Treatment Options For PCOS
Now that you know what are the first signs of pcos, let’s check out the treatment options.
1. Hormonal Birth Control
Birth control pills that contain oestrogen and progestin are often the first line treatment for PCOS. The pill regulates menstrual cycles, protects the endometrium, and decreases androgen levels. This helps control excessive hair growth, acne, and alopecia. Popular options are combination pills with low androgen index progestins like drospirenone and norgestimate.
2. Metformin
Metformin is a medication that improves insulin sensitivity and decreases insulin resistance. This helps regulate blood sugar levels. Metformin may promote more regular ovulation and menstrual cycles. It is commonly used to aid fertility and reduce metabolic complications.
3. Anti-Androgens
Medications like spironolactone and flutamide block androgen hormone receptor sites, reducing male hormone effects. Anti-androgens are primarily used for treating symptoms like hirsutism, acne, and alopecia. They may be prescribed with oral contraceptives for optimal results.
1. Fertility Medications
Ovulation-inducing agents like clomiphene citrate and letrozole are often used to stimulate ovulation in PCOS patients with infertility. Timed intercourse or procedures like intrauterine insemination can then be coordinated around ovulation. Injectable gonadotropins may also be used for controlled ovarian hyperstimulation in IVF cycles.
2. Insulin-sensitising Drugs
In addition to metformin, medications like pioglitazone and rosiglitazone make cells more sensitive to insulin and aid in glucose metabolism. These insulin-sensitising drugs help treat and prevent type 2 diabetes by lowering insulin resistance. Lifestyle changes are still needed with medication for lasting results.
3. Surgery
Laparoscopic ovarian drilling is sometimes used for infertility when other treatments fail. Laser or diathermy is applied to the ovaries to stimulate ovulation. More invasive ovarian wedge resection surgery may be required in some cases but is less commonly performed today.
1. Lifestyle Changes
Diet, exercise, and weight loss techniques form the foundation of PCOS treatment, often significantly improving symptoms. Losing just 5-10% of body weight can help restore regular periods and fertility. A nutrient-dense, low glycemic index diet and regular exercise routine are encouraged.
2. Complementary Therapies
Alternative approaches like acupuncture, supplements, mindfulness, yoga, and others may provide adjunctive symptom relief for some patients. Speak to your healthcare provider before starting any herbs or supplements. Proper monitoring is key.
Conclusion
Knowing what are the first signs of pcos allows for prompt diagnosis and treatment. It helps minimise long-term health complications like diabetes and infertility. Lifestyle changes combined with medications such as birth control pills, metformin, and anti-androgens can effectively regulate cycles, lower androgen levels, restore fertility, and improve PCOS symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What causes PCOS?
A: While the exact cause is unknown, PCOS appears to be related to increased androgen hormone levels and insulin resistance.
Q: How is PCOS diagnosed?
A: PCOS is diagnosed with clinical signs and symptoms, blood tests for hormone levels, and ultrasound of the ovaries.
Q: Can PCOS affect fertility and pregnancy?
A: Yes, PCOS is one of the most common causes of infertility in women. But fertility treatments combined with lifestyle changes can improve the chances of conception.
Q: Does PCOS put you at risk for other health problems?
A: Yes, PCOS increases the risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, endometrial cancer, and other conditions.
Q: Does PCOS get better with age?
A: Symptoms may gradually improve after age 40. However, risks associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular disease persist long-term.
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