Polycystic ovarian syndrome, or PCOS, is a complicated hormonal condition that impacts millions of women globally. It's characterized by hormonal imbalances, irregular periods, cystic ovaries, and, often, symptoms like acne, excessive hair growth, and weight gain. A multimodal approach involving dietary changes, medical intervention, and lifestyle modifications is required to manage PCOS.

In this blog, let us explore PCOS diagnosis, treatment options, and the important role diet plays in managing the condition. To make this post enriching, we have gathered insights from the well-known PCOS doctor in Hyderabad of Magna Centre. Continue reading to learn more.

Diagnosing PCOS

The diagnosis of PCOS involves a combination of hormonal tests and imaging studies. Traditionally, the condition is diagnosed if a person exhibits any of the following: irregular menstrual cycles, excess male hormone levels (clinically or through blood tests), and the presence of polycystic ovaries observed through an abdominal scan. However, it's important to note that symptoms and hormone imbalances can vary among individuals, leading to different subtypes of PCOS.

Treatment Approaches

The management of PCOS is tailored to each individual's specific clinical presentation. Lifestyle modifications such as weight management, stress reduction, and regular exercise play pivotal roles in addressing hormonal imbalances. Medical interventions may include anti-androgen drugs to manage symptoms like unwanted hair growth and acne, along with estrogen-containing hormone preparations. Drugs like metformin, aimed at improving insulin sensitivity, are sometimes used, especially in conjunction with ovulation induction drugs for those aiming to conceive. Local treatments, like laser treatments, can aid in managing significant hirsutism.

Dietary Factors Affecting PCOS

A healthy, well-balanced diet is essential for PCOS management. A diet high in fruits, whole grains, pulses, and healthy fats such as those in nuts, seeds, and unrefined vegetable oils is often advised. Since weight gain is a common symptom of PCOS, controlling weight with a balanced diet and regular exercise is important to the success of the treatment strategy.

Foods to Avoid

People with PCOS should avoid the intake of high processed foods, snacks containing sugar, deep-fried foods rich in sodium, and foods made with refined flour in their diet. They should remain in continuous touch with their dietician to help them guide and customize their diet plans according to their unique condition.

Conclusion

PCOS is a condition that requires proper attention and a good strategy to effectively manage. The condition is treatable given that the patient follows the appropriate medical prescriptions and makes modifications to their lifestyle and diet as suggested by the doctor. If one is looking for an endocrinologist in Hyderabad, they may visit Magna Centre and consult with expert doctors. The experts at this centre are committed to assisting women in reversing hormone imbalance symptoms, which are a primary cause of excess weight gain, adult acne, unwanted facial hair, depression, anxiety, and infertility in women.