PCOS / PCOD Treatment in Wakad, Pune

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting approximately 1 in 5 Indian women of reproductive age. It is characterised by a hormonal imbalance where the ovaries produce higher than normal levels of androgens (male hormones). This imbalance interferes with the development and regular release of eggs (ovulation), leading to irregular menstrual cycles. A key underlying factor in many PCOS cases is insulin resistance, which means the body cannot use insulin effectively, leading to increased insulin levels that further stimulate androgen production. Understanding the metabolic and hormonal drivers of PCOS is the first step towards effective management.

The symptoms of PCOS can vary significantly from woman to woman, making it a complex condition to identify without professional help. Common signs include irregular, infrequent, or absent menstrual periods. The hormonal cascade often leads to dermatological issues such as acne, excessive facial or body hair growth (hirsutism), and hair thinning on the scalp (alopecia). Metabolic symptoms like unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight are also prevalent. Additionally, irregular ovulation can make getting pregnant challenging. Recognizing these symptoms early allows for timely intervention, preventing the progression of the disorder.

At Star Ortho & Women Care, we rely on the internationally recognized Rotterdam criteria for diagnosing PCOS. A diagnosis is confirmed if two of the following three criteria are met: 1) irregular or absent menstrual periods indicating lack of ovulation; 2) clinical or biochemical signs of elevated androgens, such as excess hair, severe acne, or high testosterone levels in blood tests; and 3) the presence of multiple small cysts (polycystic morphology) on the ovaries, as seen on a pelvic ultrasound. We conduct a thorough clinical evaluation, including a detailed medical history and targeted hormone profiling, to ensure an accurate diagnosis and rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.

Our approach to PCOS treatment is highly personalised, targeting your specific symptoms and health goals. Lifestyle modifications form the foundation of our management plan, encompassing tailored dietary advice to manage insulin resistance, targeted exercise routines, and sleep hygiene. Medical management may include Oral Contraceptive Pills (OCPs) to regulate cycles and protect the uterine lining, Metformin to improve insulin sensitivity, or anti-androgen medications to address acne and hirsutism. For those trying to conceive, we offer specialized fertility management. We also provide sensitive care for teenage PCOS, addressing adolescent menstrual concerns and helping establish healthy habits early on.

PCOS is a leading cause of female infertility due to irregular or absent ovulation, but it is highly treatable. Our fertility-focused management starts with preconception counseling and insulin sensitization to restore natural ovulation. If lifestyle changes are insufficient, we utilize ovulation induction medications, such as Letrozole or Clomiphene, closely monitored via ultrasound to determine the optimal time for conception. We guide couples on timing intercourse effectively. If advanced fertility treatments are necessary, we provide comprehensive counseling and coordinate referrals for procedures like IUI or IVF, ensuring continuity of care.

Managing PCOS goes beyond regulating periods and treating cosmetic concerns; it is crucial for safeguarding long-term health. Women with untreated PCOS and persistent insulin resistance are at a significantly higher risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease later in life. Furthermore, infrequent periods mean the uterine lining (endometrium) is not shed regularly, which can increase the risk of endometrial hyperplasia and endometrial cancer. Early diagnosis and proactive, long-term management at our clinic are designed to mitigate these severe health risks and promote a healthier future.