Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent hormonal condition affecting women, and it stands as the primary contributor to female infertility. Although polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent illness, women frequently postpone receiving a confirmed diagnosis and treatment because of a lack of awareness.
September is recognised as International PCOS Awareness Month. PCOS Awareness Month officially begins on September 1st, which is also World PCOS Day. If you see a lot of teal color in September, it means it’s to raise awareness about PCOS. PCOS is the main factor in female infertility and serves as a risk factor for a number of major diseases. These include endometrial cancer, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease.
What is the purpose of PCOS Awareness Month?
PCOS Awareness Month aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals with PCOS by addressing their symptoms and lowering their risks of serious health issues. The National Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Association is the driving force behind this initiative, providing resources, information, and events to support the cause.
The objectives of PCOS Awareness Month include:
- Raising awareness and educating the general public, women, girls, and healthcare providers about PCOS
- Increasing the effectiveness of this condition’s diagnosis and therapy
- Sharing information on available diagnostic and treatment choices
- Enhancing the quality of life and outcomes for females with PCOS
- Advocating for increased research, improved treatment options, and ultimately a cure for PCOS
- Recognizing the challenges faced by all females affected by PCOS.
Encouraging medical researchers and healthcare professionals to deepen their knowledge of PCOS for better research, diagnosis, and support for affected individuals.
Urging governments at various levels to prioritize PCOS as a public health concern
The theme for PCOS Awareness Month in 2023 is “Empowering Patients for Improved Results.”
This subject highlights the importance of patient empowerment in treating polycystic ovarian syndrome. It includes crucial elements like patient education and support, improved patient-provider communication, advocating for their needs, patient-centered research, drug development, and community building.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition characterized by the presence of enlarged ovaries containing small cysts along their outer periphery. It is the most prevalent endocrine condition in women of reproductive age. However, PCOS has an impact on the metabolic health, psychological health, and sexual and reproductive health of women.
THERE ARE 4 TYPES OF PCOS
Insulin-resistant PCOS – This kind of PCOS is the most prevalent. Smoking, sweets, pollution, and trans fat all contribute to this particular kind of PCOS. High insulin levels in this case stop ovulation and cause the ovaries to produce testosterone. Furthermore, this hormonal imbalance can lead to various health complications.
Pill-induced PCOS – The second most typical kind of PCOS is this one. It develops as a result of birth control medication that prevents ovulation. Additionally, it can arise due to hormonal changes caused by these medications.
Inflammatory PCOS – Inflammation causes the inhibition of ovulation, resulting in unbalanced hormones and the production of androgens in PCOS. Stress, environmental pollutants, and inflammatory foods such as gluten are the main culprits behind this inflammation. Moreover, they can collectively exacerbate the body’s inflammatory response.
Hidden PCOS– Treating the underlying cause typically takes about three to four months to eliminate this milder version of PCOS. Thyroid conditions, iodine insufficiency, and artificial sweeteners trigger hidden PCOS.
Moreover, the following are the most typical PCOS symptoms and indicators in females:
- Abnormal menstruation
- Absence of menstruation or skipped periods
- Extreme menstrual bleeding
- Excessive body and facial hair growth
- Acne on the upper back, chest, and face
- Gaining weight
Although there is no known therapy for PCOS, a woman can control her symptoms with diet, medication, and/or fertility treatment if a natural conception is unsuccessful. Furthermore, many patients are surprised to hear that even the most basic treatment choices, such as Clomid or Femara with scheduled sexual interactions or intrauterine insemination (IUI), can indeed assist PCOS-affected women in conceiving.
Read our blog to find out more about
How to naturally treat PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome.
This month, we aim to raise awareness about polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition that affects over 100 million women worldwide, by educating the public.