SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
September is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Awareness Month, dedicated to raising awareness of the common hormonal disorder affecting millions of females worldwide. PCOS can lead to infertility and increases the risk of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
The month features education on symptoms, management options, as well as the importance of early diagnosis to empower women to seek support and enhance their health.
Speaking to Aletihad, Dr. Eshrak Al Attar, a specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology at HealthPlus Women's Health Center, said that PCOS affects 10-15% of women of reproductive age globally, making it a prevalent endocrine disorder.
Characterised by elevated androgen levels, irregular ovulation, and small ovarian cysts, PCOS commonly presents symptoms such as irregular menstrual periods, hirsutism, acne, and weight gain, impacting around 70% of those affected.
On top of that, women with PCOS face increased long-term health risks, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and endometrial cancer.
Regarding diagnosis, Dr. Al Attar said: "PCOS is primarily diagnosed based on the Rotterdam Criteria, which require two out of three key features: irregular or absent ovulation, hyperandrogenism (excess male hormones), and polycystic ovaries visible on ultrasound. Blood tests are also used to check hormone levels, including testosterone and luteinising hormone (LH)."
She noted that untreated PCOS can lead to metabolic syndrome, infertility, pregnancy complications, and insulin resistance, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Dr. Al Attar also discussed the role genetics play in PCOS, and how it impacts fertility and treatment options.
“Genetics plays a significant role in PCOS, with studies suggesting a heritability rate of up to 70%. Women with a family history of PCOS are 50% more likely to develop the condition themselves. PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility, with 70-80% of women with PCOS experiencing difficulties conceiving due to irregular ovulation."
She said that treatment options for PCOS include lifestyle modifications, medications (clomiphene citrate or letrozole), as well as assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilisation (IVF), with a live birth rate comparable to women without PCOS.
Lifestyle interventions like diet and exercise can improve symptoms in up to 80% of women, she added.
“Medications like metformin are often prescribed to help regulate blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity. Hormonal contraceptives are commonly used to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels, improving symptoms in up to 85% of women with PCOS," she continued.
According to Dr. Al Attar, effective management of PCOS involves working closely with healthcare providers, nutritionists, and endocrinologists. Regular checks on blood sugar, cholesterol, and reproductive health are vital. There are also promising developments in fertility treatments, as well as medications focusing on insulin resistance, and inflammation, similar to inositols and anti-androgen therapies, and gene therapy
"If you have been diagnosed with PCOS, remember that it is a manageable condition. Educate yourself, and do not hesitate to explore support groups or mental health services if needed. PCOS is challenging, but with the right care, many women lead healthy, fulfilling lives," Dr. Al Attar said.