23 Mar HOW BARIATRIC SURGERY CAN HELP IMPROVE CONDITION OF PCOS (POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME)?
In India, one out of five women suffer from a hormonal disorder known as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a condition that can present itself in different ways. Younger women may suffer from irregular periods, have hirsutism (unwanted hair growth especially on face) and obesity. In slightly older women it may lead to infertility and risk of miscarriages. PCOS can also make conceiving a baBy difficult.
Symptoms
- Because of lack of proper ovulation cycle, patient experience irregular and delayed periods or no periods.
- Due to elevated levels of male hormones, some patient also experience hirsutism (excess facial hair), acne, thinning scalp hair.
- In an ultrasound of PCOS patients, multiple small cysts are seen in the ovaries.
Treatment
- See a gynaecologist if you observe any symptoms, especially irregular or delayed periods. You will be prescribed medication to help ovulation and relieve symptoms like acne etc
- Lose weight
- Eat a balanced Diet
- Increase physical activity
The exact cause of PCOS is still not known but this condition which prolongs for a lifetime can be improved by a proper diet, life style improvement and weight loss.Almost 80% of women suffering from PCOS are obese. It becomes challenging for obese patient ( with BMI above 30 kg/m2) to lose weight with only diet and life style modification. Obesity combined with PCOS results in developing of metabolic syndrome in such patient. Women with PCOS are at greater risk for developing metabolic syndrome (diabetes, high blood pressure and other health issues).
How bariatric surgery can help improve condition of PCOS?
Bariatric surgery leads to significantweight lossthus it helps in resolving metabolic syndrome. PCOS patients have high insulin resistance. Bariatric surgery can relieve the condition and lead to a full resolution. Post-surgery studies show a correction in ovulation and menstrual cycle in PCOS patients.
Excessive insulin in the body stimulates the secretion of male hormones, called androgen, leading to conditions such as Hirsutism. Since bariatric surgery resolves insulin resistance, it also normalizes androgen secretion.Studies show that most women have a complete restoration of a regular menstrual cycle. And many of them were able to become pregnant by normal conception methods.
Bariatric surgery can be effective in achieving significant weight loss, restoration of the hormonal balance, resolution of insulin resistance, reduction of cardiovascular risk and even in improving pregnancy outcomes. Ultimately, bariatric surgery should be considered part of the treatment in PCOS women, especially in those with metabolic syndrome.
If you find yourself suffering from PCOS, contact us to talk to our Expert Panel at 6283337650
