• Menstrual disturbance: Unusual or irregular menstruation.
• Acne and facial hair growth: Hyperandrogenism (increased male hormone levels).
• Fertility issues: Ovulatory dysfunction; obesity may worsen symptoms.
• PCOS ovaries: Can be detected with or without symptoms on ultrasound scan.
• Irregular or absent menstrual cycle: Caused by anovulation, failure to release an egg monthly.
• Hormonal (Endocrine) Disturbances:
  • Luteinizing hormone (LH) - Normal or slightly reduced.
  • Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) - Normal or slightly reduced.
  • Hypothyroidism and Prolactin irregularities.
• Possible Late Effects of PCOS:
  • Diabetes Mellitus
  • Hypertension (Increased blood pressure)
  • Dyslipidaemia (Abnormal lipid/cholesterol profile)
  • Breast cancer
  • Endometrial carcinoma (Uterine lining cancer)
  • Cardiovascular illness (Heart disease)

1. A thorough medical history
2. A physical examination
3. A pelvic ultrasound showing enlarged ovaries and several tiny cysts
4. Blood tests showing a hormonal profile

The precise cause is unknown. The following elements could be involved:

• High insulin levels: Insulin controls the body's sugar levels. Women with PCOS often produce higher insulin levels to overcome resistance, which may boost androgen production, disrupting ovulation and menstrual cycles.
• Genetics: Research has linked several genes to PCOS, indicating a possible familial connection.
• Low-grade inflammation and autoimmune: PCOS-afflicted females may experience low-grade inflammation and autoimmunity, leading to increased androgen production by polycystic ovaries.

Losing weight is very much advised if you have PCOS and are overweight or obese because it may normalize your hormone levels. Ovulation (the release of the egg from the ovary) and regular menstrual periods may be restored with weight loss. Regular periods can be restored for PCOS

patients who don't want to get pregnant by using the following drugs:

• Oral contraceptives may be suggested to bring on regular periods.
• Progestogen tablets can be taken monthly or every three to four months to cause withdrawal bleeding and keep the endometrial lining thin.
• The Mirena Coil releases progesterone locally within the uterus, helping to maintain a thin endometrial lining, reducing the risk of endometrial carcinoma.

Treatment Options for Infertility in Females with PCOS

Anovulation (failure to release an egg) is a key factor in infertility. If lifestyle modifications (balanced diet, exercise, and weight loss) fail, medication may be necessary:

• Oral anti-oestrogens:
  • Clomiphene is usually the first-line treatment, prescribed in the early menstrual cycle. Ultrasound monitoring is required to prevent multiple pregnancies.
  • Letrozole is another oral medication used to stimulate ovulation.
  • If oral medications fail, gonadotropins (administered via subcutaneous injection) may be needed.
• Metformin: Helps improve insulin sensitivity, beneficial for PCOS patients with insulin resistance.
• In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF): Recommended if other treatments are unsuccessful.

If you experience PCOS symptoms, consult your doctor for early diagnosis and treatment to prevent long-term complications.