Do you experience irregular periods, unwanted hair growth, or acne? You may be one of the many women affected by Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). At Klinik Casabrina women’s clinic, our team of understanding and experienced healthcare providers is dedicated to helping you manage your PCOS effectively.
PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that affects millions of women worldwide. It gets its name, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, from the many small cysts that can sometimes form in the ovaries. But it’s important to know that not everyone with PCOS has cysts, and some women without PCOS can get them too.
Women with PCOS have an excess of androgens, hormones typically present in men at higher levels which disrupts their female hormones. It is considered a chronic endocrine disorder, meaning it’s a long-term condition that can’t be completely eliminated.
We'll discuss your symptoms and medical history, and may perform a pelvic exam and blood tests to confirm a PCOS diagnosis.
After a confirmed diagnosis, you may also consider getting an ultrasound to see if there’s any cysts in the ovary.
There's no one-size-fits-all approach to PCOS management. We'll develop a plan that addresses your specific needs and goals.
Since PCOS is a chronic condition, our treatment plans are designed for the long term and effective management of symptoms.
At Klinik Casabrina, we offer compassionate care for women with PCOS, speaking about your experience and finding the best way to relieve symptoms.
Treatment plans can include:
Since there is currently no cure for PCOS, treatment focuses on managing the various symptoms and potential long-term health risks. There are proven medications that our doctors can recommend to better manage your condition.
Hormonal Birth Control: Birth control pills containing both oestrogen and progestin are commonly prescribed to regulate periods, reduce androgen levels, and improve acne.
Metformin: This medication typically used for type 2 diabetes can also be helpful for women with PCOS by improving insulin sensitivity and potentially regulating ovulation.
Anti-Androgen Medications: Medications like spironolactone can block the effects of androgens, helping to manage symptoms like excess hair growth and acne.
Fertility Medications: If you’re trying to conceive, medications like clomiphene citrate (Clomid) can stimulate ovulation.
The effectiveness of each medication varies from person to person. During your consultation, our doctors can find the option best suited for you.
There’s also the long-term health risk to consider when seeking treatment for PCOS. PCOS can increase your risk of developing several chronic health conditions down the line. Here’s a closer look at some of the most concerning ones:
Insulin resistance, a common feature of PCOS, disrupts how your body uses insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar. This can eventually lead to type 2 diabetes, where your body struggles to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
The combination of insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and abnormal cholesterol levels often seen in PCOS creates a perfect storm for an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
The imbalanced hormones in PCOS can sometimes cause the lining of the uterus (endometrium) to thicken abnormally. This increases the risk of developing endometrial cancer, although the overall risk remains relatively low.
Women with PCOS are also more prone to sleep apnea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This can lead to daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and an increased risk of other health problems.
PCOS can be diagnosed at any age after puberty, but it’s often identified during the late teens or early adulthood when symptoms become noticeable. If you’re experiencing symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, excess hair growth, acne, or difficulty conceiving, it may be a good idea to talk to one of our doctors about the possibility of PCOS.
The exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Hormonal imbalances, particularly elevated levels of androgens and insulin resistance, play a significant role in its development.
There is no single test for PCOS. Diagnosis is typically based on a combination of your medical history, a physical exam, and blood tests.
No, there aren’t distinct types of PCOS. However, the way it presents itself can vary depending on the individual. Some women may experience mostly hormonal symptoms, while others may struggle more with weight management or fertility issues.
PCOS is a chronic condition that typically does not go away on its own. However, symptoms can vary over time, and some women may experience periods of remission or improvement, especially with lifestyle changes and treatment.
PCOS can make it difficult to get pregnant because it can disrupt ovulation. However, many women with PCOS are able to conceive with the help of medication or fertility treatments.
Women with PCOS may have a slightly higher risk of certain pregnancy complications, such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and preterm birth. However, with proper prenatal care and management, most women with PCOS can have healthy pregnancies.
If you suspect you may have PCOS, or have been diagnosed and are looking for support, contact Klinik Casabrina today to schedule an appointment. Visit us at Senawang, Seremban, we’re here to help you feel your best.
Klinik Casabrina is a women’s and children’s healthcare clinic in Seremban, Malaysia. We provide specialized services such as gynecology check-ups, antenatal and postnatal care, and more.
© 2023, Klinik Casabrina. All Rights Reserved. Created with love by Hypercharge
