CAN I HAVE PCOS EVEN AFTER GETTING REGULAR PERIODS?
Irregular periods are said to be a classic example of polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS. The condition leads to painful menses or sometimes, periods even stop. However, experts say some people with PCOS still have regular periods. It is also possible that any irregularities in your menstrual cycle could be due to some other issue.
PCOS is a hormonal disorder commonly suffered by millions of women across the world, who have excess androgen levels, and cysts on the ovaries.
Experts believe the presentation of PCOS varies widely among individuals, and not all women with PCOS experience the same symptoms or severity.
Related News |“PCOS is diagnosed based on a combination of symptoms, physical examination, and laboratory tests, rather than just the absence or presence of irregular periods. While irregular periods are a hallmark symptom of PCOS, they are not the only criteria for diagnosis,” Dr. Anusha Rao P, Consultant Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yashoda Hospitals, told Times now.
And so, despite having normal periods, a few reasons why you may have PCOS include:
Excess androgen levels Related News |
According to Dr. Anusha, elevated levels of male hormones like testosterone, can cause symptoms like acne, hirsutism excessive hair growth, and even male-pattern baldness.Ovarian cysts
These are fluid-filled sacs that develop on the ovaries. “While the name "polycystic ovary syndrome" suggests the presence of multiple cysts, not all women with PCOS have them, and having ovarian cysts alone does not necessarily mean you have PCOS,” she said.Insulin resistance
Many women having PCOS have insulin resistance, which leads to high blood sugar levels and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.Metabolic disturbances
PCOS is also associated with metabolic syndrome - which includes obesity, high blood pressure, and abnormal cholesterol levels.“It is important to note that the diagnostic criteria for PCOS have evolved, and recent guidelines emphasize the need for a comprehensive evaluation rather than relying solely on menstrual irregularity. Some women with PCOS may have regular periods but still exhibit other symptoms or metabolic abnormalities consistent with the condition,” said Dr. Anusha.
PCOS and fertility
Doctors say not all women with PCOS suffer from issues, but a significant number do. Many women first identify a problem when they struggle to conceive, and it is only upon undergoing investigations for infertility that they receive a PCOS diagnosis.As many as 70-80 per cent of women with PCOS will have fertility problems and the condition is the primary cause of anovulation in women of reproductive age.
One of the most obvious signs that there is an ovulatory issue is menstrual cycle disturbances.
Ways to manage symptoms of PCOS
According to doctors, treatment for PCOS depends on several factors, including your age, how severe your symptoms are, and your overall health.The type of treatment also depends on whether you want to become pregnant in the future.
If you do plan to become pregnant, your treatment may include:
- A change in diet and activity
- Medications to cause ovulation
- Birth control pills
- Diabetes medication
- A change in diet and activity