How is PCOS diagnosed and how is it treated？
huangyan Sep 06, 2022
Your doctor will ask you about your medical history and symptoms, including your family’s medical history. Next you will have a physical exam for checking your facial hair, acne, and discolored skin. Next, the doctor will perform a pelvic exam to look for swollen ovaries or other growths in your uterus.
You may have tested with a blood test, and ultrasound to look for cysts in your body and check the thickness of the lining of your uterus.
Treatment for PCOS depends on several factors, such as your age and the health of your reproductive organs. PCOS is usually managed with medications.
Although medications cannot cure PCOS, they will alleviate some of the symptoms and improve any other health issues. If you have a plan to become pregnant, you will be advised of the following:
- A change in diet and losing weight. According to a study, losing up to 10% of your body weight can help regulate your menstrual cycle, and alleviate PCOS symptoms. It also lowers insulin levels and the risk for diabetes and heart disease.
- Exercise. Exercise can help patients lose more weight, and it reduces the risks of diabetes and heart disease.
- Medication can help regulate ovulation. However, some risks include increasing the probability of multiple pregnancies and causing ovarian hyperstimulation.
- In vitro fertilization (IVF). Your egg is fertilized with your partner’s sperm in the lab and then transferred to your uterus. This is an option for women with PCOS when ovulation is not regulated with medication.
If you do not plan to become pregnant, your treatment may include:
- Birth control pills. These help to lower androgen levels and control the menstrual period. It will also protect the endometrium (inner lining of the uterus) against abnormal cell growth.
- Medications to help reduce symptoms. Metformin can help lower elevated insulin levels. Clomiphene (Clomid) and Letrozole (Femara) is the most common medication that can induce ovulation.
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