Regular periods? You might still have PMOS says gynaecologist and reveals the hidden risks that no one talks about

Explore essential insights on managing PMOS, understanding symptoms, and the importance of lifestyle changes in reducing long-term health risks for women.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a common hormonal disorder, affecting the ovaries of women in their reproductive age group, i.e. menarche to menopause. It has an impact on hormone levels, ovulation and metabolism, now known as PMOS (polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome). Diagnosis of PMOS is based on symptoms, hormonal levels and ultrasound.

Is it possible to have PMOS with regular periods and no cysts?

“Women may present with multiple symptoms such as menstrual problems like irregular cycles or scanty period flow indicating oligo-ovulation or anovulation, hyperandrogenism (hormonal) like hirsutism (excess facial hair growth), acne, and hair loss” Gynaecologist Dr Kiran Coelho, Lilavati Hospital And Research Centre tells Health Shots. Also, they may complain of weight gain, fatigue and infertility or subfertility. Those experiencing these issues should consult their gynaecologist.

Which test is for 3 months of sugar?

The expert will first take a detailed history and perform a physical examination, including BMI calculation, blood pressure check, and waist circumference measurement. Blood investigations will include a full blood count, glycaemic status (blood sugar), lipid profile, and hormone checks such as thyroid function tests, prolactin levels, testosterone, DHEA, and 17-hydroxyprogesterone, to rule out other endocrine disorders. If a patient presents with amenorrhoea, a pregnancy test will be performed, as pregnancy must be ruled out. Most importantly, an ultrasound will be carried out to assess the ovaries for a polycystic appearance.

What is the Rotterdam criteria for PMOS?

PMOS is diagnosed based on the above points, known as the Rotterdam criteria. Diagnosis requires any two of these irregular cycles (suggesting anovulation), Hyperandrogenism (facial hair growth, acne, hair loss), or Ultrasound Findings (polycystic ovaries). The common clinical associations for PMOS are infertility or subfertility, obesity or insulin resistance, dyslipidaemia, increased risk of endometrial hyperplasia from prolonged anovulation or increased long-term metabolic risk.

What is ovulating dysfunction?

Various parameters are used when ovulatory dysfunction is suspected. In adults, it is when the cycle is less than 21 or more than 35 days, one gets 8 cycles per year, or any cycle is more than 90 days. In adolescents, diagnosis is more cautious because irregular cycles and multifollicular ovaries can be physiological.

Here’s how one can manage PMOS:

Antiandrogens can be added for hirsutism or acne if it does not respond to contraceptive pills. Consider this if BMI is>25 or if there is impaired glucose tolerance or insulin resistance. It is also indicated if there are any metabolic risks or if contraceptive pills are contraindicated, that is, if she is planning pregnancy.

Can you use clomiphene and letrozole together?

If the patient is seeking pregnancy, ovulation induction with Letrozole is advised; alternatively, clomiphene citrate can be used, with Metformin and gonadotropins as adjuvants. Surgical procedures that can be undertaken include laparoscopic ovarian drilling.

IVF is considered only as a last resort

Other adjuvants are for psychological support, weight loss, and management of sleep or eating disorders. Treat vitamin deficiencies, such as vitamin D. Overall, PMOS can be managed with multidisciplinary, long-term care. The motto is to treat the woman and not just her symptoms.

(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.)