Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries.
What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a common endocrine disorder that affects up to 10% of women of reproductive age. It is characterized by a hormonal imbalance, irregular ovulation, and the presence of multiple small cysts on the ovaries. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome causes hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance, which disrupt normal ovarian function and lead to symptoms such as irregular periods and infertility.
Although the exact cause of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome remains unknown, several factors are believed to contribute to its development, including genetics, family history, insulin resistance, low-grade inflammation, and environmental influences. Having a mother or sister with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, being overweight, or experiencing early puberty can increase one's risk of developing the condition.
Understanding the Hormonal Imbalance in PCOS
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome involves an excess of androgens ("male" hormones), decreased or irregular progesterone production, and often elevated insulin levels. These hormonal imbalances disrupt the normal menstrual cycle, prevent regular ovulation, and cause many noticeable symptoms.
Common Causes and Risk Factors for PCOS
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome causes hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance that disrupt normal ovarian function and lead to symptoms like irregular periods and infertility.
While the exact cause remains unclear, genetics, family history, insulin resistance, low-grade inflammation, and environmental factors all contribute. Having a mother or sister with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, being overweight, or experiencing early puberty heightens risk.
Recognising the Symptoms of PCOS
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome symptoms include irregular periods, excessive hair growth, acne, weight gain, and difficulties with fertility caused by hormonal imbalances.
Irregular Menstrual Cycles and Ovulation Issues
Menstrual cycles lasting longer than 35 days, missed periods, or having fewer than eight periods per year may indicate anovulation, which is a primary feature of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
Signs of Excess Androgens (Hirsutism, Acne, Hair Loss)
Dark, coarse hair growth on the face or body, persistent acne, or thinning scalp hair are signs of excess androgens.
Polycystic Ovaries on Ultrasound
Transvaginal or pelvic ultrasound may show enlarged ovaries with a "string-of-pearls pattern of follicles.
Metabolic Symptoms (Weight Gain, Insulin Resistance)
Many women experience difficulties with weight management, central obesity, sugar cravings, and fatigue”symptoms that may indicate underlying insulin resistance.
How is PCOS Diagnosed at Liv Hospital?
Comprehensive Medical History and Physical Examination
Our specialists review your menstrual cycle, weight changes, skin concerns, and family history. Then, they conduct a targeted physical examination, including measurements of BMI, blood pressure, and assessments for acne or hair pattern changes.
Hormone Level Testing
Blood tests measure LH, FSH, prolactin, testosterone, SHBG, fasting insulin, and glucose to help identify the hormonal imbalances associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and to rule out thyroid or adrenal disorders.
Pelvic Ultrasound Examinations
High-resolution transvaginal ultrasound determines ovarian volume, antral-follicle count, and endometrial thickness.
Ruling Out Other Conditions
To establish a definitive Polycystic Ovary Syndrome diagnosis, we exclude other conditions such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia, Cushing's syndrome, hyperprolactinaemia, and thyroid disease.
Comprehensive PCOS Treatment Approaches
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome treatment focuses on managing symptoms and may involve lifestyle modifications, hormonal birth control, insulin-sensitizing medications, and fertility treatments for those wishing to become pregnant.PCOS treatment focuses on managing symptoms and may involve lifestyle modifications, hormonal birth control, insulin-sensitizing medications, and fertility treatments for those wishing to become pregnant.
Lifestyle Modifications: Diet and Exercise
A Mediterranean-style or low-GI PCOS diet, combined with regular aerobic exercise and strength training, can improve insulin sensitivity, support weight loss, and restore ovulation in many women with PCOS.
Medical Management for Symptom Control
- Combined oral contraceptives help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce symptoms associated with excess androgens.
- Anti-androgens (e.g., spironolactone) target hirsutism and acne.
- Topical treatments and laser therapy can enhance medical care for skin and hair concerns.
Managing Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Concerns
Metformin helps lower insulin and androgen levels, promotes weight management, and supports spontaneous ovulation. It also reduces the long-term risk of developing type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease.
Treatments for infertility resulting from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome include lifestyle modifications such as weight loss and regular exercise, ovulation-inducing medications like clomiphene citrate or letrozole, insulin-sensitizing drugs such as metformin, and assisted reproductive technologies, including in vitro fertilization (IVF), if other approaches are unsuccessful.
Addressing PCOS-Related Infertility
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome fertility problems result from hormonal imbalances that interfere with ovulation, making it difficult for women to conceive naturally.
Understanding Fertility Challenges with PCOS
Without regular ovulation, the timing of egg release becomes unpredictable. Additionally, elevated levels of LH and insulin can negatively affect egg quality and reduce the endometrium's ability to support implantation.
Ovulation Induction Therapies
First-line treatments include letrozole or clomiphene citrate. If oral agents are unsuccessful, injectable gonadotropins may be used. Careful monitoring at Liv Hospital helps minimize the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation.
Assisted Reproductive Technologies (IVF) at Liv Hospital
When ovulation induction is unsuccessful or severe male-factor infertility is present, in vitro fertilization provides high success rates. Our embryology laboratory uses time-lapse incubators and pre-implantation genetic testing to maximize outcomes.
Surgical Options for Fertility
Laparoscopic ovarian drilling may reduce androgen production and trigger ovulation in selected patients who are resistant to clomiphene treatment.
Why Choose Turkey for Your PCOS Treatment?
Access to High-Quality Medical Care at Competitive Costs
Turkey offers internationally accredited hospitals, state-of-the-art technology, and affordable pricing, making advanced Polycystic Ovary Syndrome care accessible to patients from around the world.
Experienced Specialists and Advanced Medical Infrastructure
Liv Hospital is home to leading gynecologists, endocrinologists, and reproductive specialists who have received training in Europe and the USA.
A Welcoming Destination for International Patients
Our multilingual coordinators provide assistance with visas, transfers, and accommodation, ensuring a seamless and stress-free medical journey.
Liv Hospital: Leading PCOS Care with Advanced Technology
Our Multidisciplinary Team Approach
We integrate gynecology, reproductive endocrinology, nutrition and dietetics, psychology, and bariatric surgery as needed, offering comprehensive, 360-degree management for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
State-of-the-Art Diagnostic and Treatment Facilities
- 3-Tesla MRI for pituitary or adrenal evaluation
- High-definition laparoscopy suites
- On-site genetics and metabolism laboratories
Personalised Treatment Plans for International Patients
Each plan is tailored to respect cultural preferences, travel schedules, and follow-up needs, and is delivered securely via telemedicine once you return home.
Success Stories in PCOS Management and Fertility
Our live birth rates for IVF cycles related to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome are higher than the European average. Additionally, many patients are able to conceive naturally following our integrated lifestyle and medical programmes.
Living Well with PCOS: Long-Term Management and Support
Managing Long-Term Health Risks (Diabetes, Heart Disease)
If left untreated, insulin resistance significantly increases the lifetime risk of developing type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, and hypertension. Regular monitoring with glucose tolerance tests and lipid panels is essential for early detection and management.
Importance of Regular Check-ups and Monitoring
Annual ultrasounds, metabolic screenings, and dermatologic assessments help detect complications early.
Mental Health and Emotional Well-being Support
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome increases the risk of anxiety, depression, and body-image concerns. Our counselors and support groups empower patients to build resilience and foster positive self-esteem while living with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
* Liv Hospital Editorial Board has contributed to the publication of this content .
* The contents of this page are for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. This page does not provide information about medicinal healthcare services at Liv Hospital.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What causes Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
The exact cause is unclear, but genetics, insulin resistance, inflammation, and hormonal imbalances all contribute.
What are the most common symptoms of PCOS?
Irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth, weight gain, hair thinning, and fertility difficulties are the most frequent symptoms.
How is PCOS diagnosed?
Diagnosis includes a medical history, hormone tests, and pelvic ultrasound, while other hormonal conditions are ruled out.
Can PCOS affect fertility?
Yes. PCOS often prevents regular ovulation, making it harder to conceive, but many women become pregnant with proper treatment.
What treatments help manage PCOS?
Lifestyle changes, hormone medications, insulin-sensitizing drugs, and fertility treatments are commonly used depending on symptoms.
Can PCOS be cured?
There is no cure, but symptoms can be effectively controlled with ongoing treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and regular follow up.
Does weight loss help PCOS symptoms?
Even a small reduction in weight can improve hormone balance, restore ovulation, and reduce metabolic risks.
