Is early detection and prevention of PCOS important? And is treatment safe and effective with the OCP?
💡 What is PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition that affects how a woman’s ovaries work. It can cause:
- Irregular or no periods
- Acne or oily skin
- Excess hair growth (face, chest, tummy)
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Trouble getting pregnant
- Darkened skin patches (especially on the neck or underarms)
⚠️ Why is Early Detection Important?
Detecting PCOS early allows you to:
- Control symptoms like acne, irregular periods, or excess hair
- Prevent complications like:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Fertility problems
- Risk of womb (endometrial) cancer
- Start healthy habits earlier for better long-term health
🔍 How is PCOS Diagnosed?
Your doctor may:
- Ask about your period and symptoms
- Do a physical exam
- Order blood tests (to check hormone levels)
- Do an ultrasound of your ovaries
💊 Treatment: Oral Contraceptive Pills (OCPs)
If you’re not trying to get pregnant now, your doctor may recommend OCPs (also called birth control pills). They can help:
✅ Regulate your periods
✅ Reduce acne and unwanted hair
✅ Protect your womb lining
Are OCPs Safe?
Yes, for most women. Your doctor will check if they are right for you.
Possible side effects:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Slight weight changes
- Mood changes
Rare but serious risk: Blood clots (higher if you smoke, are overweight, or have a family history)
🥗 What Else Can Help?
Healthy lifestyle changes are very important, especially if you’re overweight:
- Eat balanced meals (less sugar, more whole foods)
- Exercise regularly (30 minutes a day, 5 times a week)
- Lose just 5-10% of your body weight – it can improve symptoms!
Your doctor may also suggest other medications like:
- Metformin – helps with blood sugar and weight
- Anti-androgens – for hair and skin symptoms
- Fertility treatments – if you’re trying to get pregnant
👩⚕️ When to See a Doctor
Make an appointment if you:
- Have very irregular or no periods
- Are gaining weight quickly
- Notice excess facial/body hair or bad acne
- Are planning to get pregnant and facing difficulty
- Feel anxious, depressed, or stressed about your symptoms
🧕🏽 A Note for Young Women & Parents
It’s normal for periods to be irregular in the first year or two after they start, but persistent symptoms like weight gain, acne, or hair changes should not be ignored.
Dr Sharad ObGynae
+60 11-1656 6659