Understanding PCOS: What Are The First Signs And How Can I Detect It?

Discover The Specialized Care And Attention Provided by Our Gynecology Department at Hospital CMQ

In the complex world of women’s health, PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) is one of the biggest enigmas. It is estimated that this reproductive disorder affects approximately 10% of women of reproductive age worldwide. At Hospital CMQ, we are proud to count on a Gynecology Department that not only specializes in pregnancies and deliveries. In addition, it thoroughly addresses PCOS and accompanies you on your journey to long-lasting wellness.

Ready to begin your journey towards a better understanding and management of PCOS? Keep reading and learn more than just the visible symptoms and hormonal imbalances that accompany this condition. To provide you with the best information, we teamed up with our experts to explore every corner of this syndrome, from fertility to mental health. Moreover, we’ll debunk misconceptions and provide insights and tools for those women who are facing this challenging condition.

The Impact of PCOS on Fertility and Menstruation: How To Know If You Have PCOS?

To begin understanding PCOS, imagine your health as a puzzle where each piece represents a crucial aspect of your well-being. Within this puzzle, there is a piece called “PCOS,” which is often misinterpreted as simply the presence of ovarian cysts. However, PCOS is much more than that. 

In the PCOS piece, you will find smaller pieces that represent hormonal challenges, metabolic changes, and other symptoms that impact not only your body but also your mind. In addition, although these pieces are interconnected, not all women with PCOS will have the same pieces in their puzzle. For this reason, to solve it, it is essential to seek the guidance of a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

The Most Common Symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Typical characteristics of this syndrome may include:

• Irregular Periods: Irregular menstrual cycles, which can manifest as absent or excessively long periods.
• Increased Androgen Levels: High levels of male hormones, which may cause acne, increased facial and body hair, and/or hair loss.
• Ovarian Cysts: In some cases, but not all, small cysts may appear on the ovaries.
• Insulin Resistance: Many women with PCOS also show insulin resistance, which can lead to metabolic problems such as type 2 diabetes.
• Weight Changes: Some women with PCOS experience difficulties with weight control due to insulin resistance.

Diagnostic Process for PCOS at Hospital CMQ in Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit

Every woman experiences PCOS differently. For this reason, our experts recommend a complete medical evaluation that includes a thorough analysis of the symptoms you experience and a few additional tests. Thus, during your first visit with our PCOS specialists in Puerto Vallarta, you will be questioned about your clinical history and the symptoms you are having.

Subsequently, a physical check-up is required to evaluate any visible signs such as acne and facial hair. After the physical evaluation, our experts will perform a pelvic ultrasound to check if you have any cysts. Lastly, you might have some blood tests performed to measure your hormone levels. In this case, it is worth mentioning that the diagnosis of PCOS is based on the exclusion of other medical conditions that could present similar symptoms. We believe it’s important to rule out other disorders such as hypothyroidism or any other causes of menstrual irregularities before giving you a final diagnosis.

Treatment for PCOS: Going Beyond Medications

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome treatment focuses on easing the symptoms and reducing the risks associated with this condition. Therefore, in addition to medication, adopting a holistic approach that includes lifestyle changes can be fundamental. Some of the strategies our specialists recommend for PCOS management include:

• Eat a Balanced Diet: Adopting a balanced diet can help you manage your symptoms. Choose whole foods that are low in refined sugars and high in fiber.

• Get Regular Physical Activity: Exercise improves insulin sensitivity and can help you maintain a healthy weight. The best exercises for PCOS are pilates, swimming, walking, and cycling.

• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the severity of your symptoms.

• Stress Management: Stress can worsen PCOS symptoms. We recommend you practice stress management techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or mindfulness.

• Taking supplements: Some studies suggest that certain supplements, such as inositol, may help improve insulin sensitivity and regulate menstrual cycles.

• Education and Counseling: Therapy can be beneficial in managing the emotional and psychological aspects of this condition, especially if you suffer from anxiety and depression.
• Regular follow-up: It is important to have regular health check-ups and lab tests to track your hormonal health.

However, while these may be helpful, you should not overlook your medical treatment. As such, it is important to work closely with your OB/GYN to develop a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs.

PCOS and its Connection With Insulin Resistance

As mentioned above, PCOS is an endocrine/metabolic disorder in which insulin plays a major role. According to The National Institutes of Health, about 60% of women with PCOS, regardless of their weight, are insulin resistant. But what is insulin resistance? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), insulin resistance means that the body does not respond effectively to insulin, so it overproduces it.

Insulin resistance in women with PCOS causes excessive insulin production by the pancreas to keep blood glucose levels under control. Moreover, high levels of insulin stimulate the ovaries to produce increased amounts of androgens (male hormones). This rise in androgens is responsible for many of the symptoms associated with PCOS, such as acne, excessive hair growth, and irregular periods.

PCOS and its Impact on Mental Health

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome not only affects the physical health but also significantly impacts the mental health of the women who have it. In fact, several studies have observed a higher prevalence of anxiety and depression in women with PCOS. In addition, due to the hormonal changes associated with this condition, mood swings, irritability, and intense emotions arise. Likewise, irregular menstrual periods, difficulty conceiving, excessive hair growth, and acne can affect self-esteem, and lead to body dysmorphia, resulting in severe anxiety.

Therapy can be beneficial in addressing anxiety, and depression, and in building coping skills. However, seeking comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and emotional manifestations of PCOS is essential to achieving overall wellness.

Hospital CMQ: Personalized Approach and Care in the Treatment of PCOS

At Hospital CMQ, we acknowledge that every woman is different and that PCOS does not affect all women in the same way. For this reason, our dedicated team of Gynecologists is committed to giving you a personalized and comprehensive approach that addresses your individual needs.

Similarly, we believe that PCOS treatment is a long-term journey, which is why our doctors provide regular follow-up appointments. Likewise, we firmly believe in the importance of education and empowerment. We want every one of our patients to feel able to make well-informed decisions about their health.

Dr. Carmín Rodríguez, M.D., OBGYN, PCOS Specialist in Puerto Vallarta and Bucerias

At Hospital CMQ, we are proud to present Dr. Carmín Rodríguez, a passionate gynecologist and a specialist in the treatment of PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome). Beyond clinical care, Dr. Rodriguez provides a compassionate and humane approach to your well-being. Schedule your appointment now!

Frequently Asked Questions about Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)