PCOS: Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age, yet it remains widely misunderstood. In the Philippines, where conversations about reproductive health can be limited, many women suffer from PCOS symptoms without knowing the cause or that effective treatments exist.
What is PCOS?
PCOS is a complex hormonal disorder characterized by three main features (Rotterdam criteria—diagnosis requires at least two of three):
- Irregular or Absent Ovulation: Leading to irregular or missed periods
- Elevated Androgens: Higher-than-normal levels of male hormones, causing acne, excess hair growth, and other symptoms
- Polycystic Ovaries: Enlarged ovaries containing many small fluid-filled sacs (follicles) visible on ultrasound
Despite its name, not all women with PCOS have cysts, and having ovarian cysts doesn't mean you have PCOS. The "cysts" are actually immature follicles that haven't developed properly due to hormonal imbalance.
Understanding the Hormonal Imbalance
In a normal menstrual cycle:
- The pituitary gland releases FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) to stimulate follicle growth
- One follicle becomes dominant and releases an egg (ovulation)
- LH (luteinizing hormone) triggers ovulation
- The cycle repeats monthly
In PCOS:
- There's often a higher LH-to-FSH ratio
- Multiple follicles start developing but none become dominant
- Ovulation doesn't occur (anovulation)
- The ovaries produce excess androgens
- Insulin resistance is often present, worsening the hormonal imbalance
PCOS in the Philippines
Prevalence: PCOS affects an estimated 5-10% of women of reproductive age worldwide. In the Philippines, exact figures are unclear, but the condition is common.
Challenges:
- Many women don't recognize symptoms as a medical condition
- Irregular periods may be normalized or attributed to stress
- Conversations about reproductive health can be taboo
- Limited awareness among healthcare providers
- Cost of testing and treatment
Cultural Considerations:
- Excess hair growth and weight can significantly impact self-esteem in a culture that values "kayumanggi" beauty and slender figures
- Fertility concerns carry heavy emotional weight in a family-centered society
- Many women don't seek help until trying to conceive
Recognizing PCOS Symptoms
PCOS presents differently in different women. Common symptoms include:
Menstrual Irregularities:
- Periods that come more than 35 days apart
- Fewer than 8 periods per year
- Very heavy periods when they do occur
- Complete absence of periods (amenorrhea)
Hyperandrogenism (Excess Male Hormones):
- Hirsutism: Excess hair on face, chest, back, stomach
- Severe acne, especially on chin and jawline
- Oily skin
- Male-pattern baldness or thinning hair
- Deepening voice (less common)
Metabolic Features:
- Weight gain, especially around the midsection
- Difficulty losing weight
- Acanthosis nigricans: Dark, velvety skin patches on neck, armpits, or groin
- Skin tags
Other Symptoms:
- Infertility or difficulty conceiving
- Fatigue
- Mood swings, anxiety, depression
- Sleep problems (sleep apnea more common)
Diagnosis
If PCOS is suspected, your doctor may order:
Blood Tests:
- Hormone levels (FSH, LH, testosterone, DHEA-S)
- Thyroid function tests (to rule out thyroid disorders)
- Prolactin levels
- Fasting glucose and insulin levels
- Lipid panel
Pelvic Ultrasound:
- To visualize the ovaries
- Look for the characteristic "string of pearls" appearance (many small follicles)
- Check ovarian size
Additional Tests:
- Oral glucose tolerance test (to check for insulin resistance/diabetes)
- Testing for other conditions that mimic PCOS
Long-Term Health Risks
PCOS isn't just about periods and fertility. It increases risk for several serious conditions:
Metabolic Risks:
- Type 2 diabetes (more than 50% of PCOS women develop diabetes or prediabetes before age 40)
- Metabolic syndrome
- Cardiovascular disease
- High blood pressure
- Abnormal cholesterol levels
Reproductive Risks:
- Infertility
- Gestational diabetes during pregnancy
- Pregnancy-induced high blood pressure
- Miscarriage
- Premature birth
Other Risks:
- Endometrial cancer (due to prolonged periods without shedding the uterine lining)
- Sleep apnea
- Depression and anxiety
- Eating disorders
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Treatment: A Comprehensive Approach
PCOS treatment is individualized based on symptoms and goals (e.g., regulating periods, improving fertility, managing symptoms).
Lifestyle Modifications (Foundation of Treatment)
Diet:
- Low glycemic index (GI) diet to manage insulin
- Adequate protein
- Plenty of vegetables and fiber
- Limited processed foods and sugary drinks
- Moderate healthy fats
- Consider working with a nutritionist
Exercise:
- Regular physical activity improves insulin sensitivity
- Combination of aerobic exercise and strength training
- At least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week
- Even modest weight loss (5-10%) can improve symptoms
Weight Management:
- Weight loss can restore ovulation in some women
- Improves hormone levels and insulin sensitivity
- Reduces long-term health risks
- Focus on sustainable changes, not crash diets
Medications for Menstrual Regulation
Combined Oral Contraceptives (Birth Control Pills):
- Regulate menstrual cycles
- Reduce androgen levels
- Improve acne and hirsutism
- Protect against endometrial cancer
- Various formulations available
Progestin Therapy:
- Induces a period every 1-3 months
- Protects the uterine lining
- Option for those who can't take estrogen
Medications for Metabolic Issues
Metformin:
- Improves insulin sensitivity
- May help with weight loss
- Can restore ovulation in some women
- Often used alongside lifestyle modifications
Fertility Treatments
Clomiphene Citrate (Clomid):
- First-line medication for inducing ovulation
- Taken early in the menstrual cycle
Letrozole:
- Alternative ovulation induction medication
- May be more effective than clomiphene for PCOS
Gonadotropins:
- Injectable hormones for ovulation induction
- Higher risk of multiple pregnancies
IVF (In-Vitro Fertilization):
- Option when other treatments fail
- High success rates for PCOS patients
Ovarian Drilling:
- Laparoscopic surgery to destroy part of the ovary
- Can restore ovulation
- Reserved for specific cases
Managing Hirsutism and Acne
Cosmetic Approaches:
- Shaving, waxing, threading
- Laser hair removal
- Electrolysis
Medications:
- Anti-androgens (spironolactone)
- Eflornithine cream (slows facial hair growth)
- Retinoids and other acne treatments
- Combined oral contraceptives
Living with PCOS
Self-Care Strategies:
- Track your menstrual cycles
- Monitor weight and symptoms
- Maintain healthy eating habits
- Exercise regularly
- Get enough sleep
- Manage stress
- Regular medical check-ups
Emotional Well-being:
- PCOS can affect self-image and mental health
- Seek support from friends, family, or support groups
- Consider counseling if struggling emotionally
- Online communities can provide valuable support
Building Your Healthcare Team:
- Gynecologist or reproductive endocrinologist
- Endocrinologist
- Dermatologist (for skin issues)
- Nutritionist
- Mental health professional if needed
Fertility and PCOS
Having PCOS doesn't mean you can't have children. Many women with PCOS conceive naturally or with treatment:
- Lifestyle modifications alone can restore ovulation for some
- Ovulation-inducing medications have high success rates
- Assisted reproductive technologies are available if needed
If you have PCOS and want to conceive:
- Start with a preconception consultation
- Optimize weight and nutrition before trying
- Address any insulin resistance
- Work with a reproductive specialist if needed
A Message of Empowerment
A PCOS diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but understanding the condition is the first step toward taking control. With proper management, women with PCOS can regulate their cycles, manage symptoms, conceive when desired, and significantly reduce long-term health risks.
You are not alone. Connect with other women with PCOS, advocate for your health, and work with healthcare providers who listen and understand.
"Ang kababaihan ay malakas at may kakayahang harapin ang anumang hamon." (Women are strong and capable of facing any challenge.)
