PCOS/Menopause/Hormonal issues

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a gynecological condition that occurs when there’s an imbalance in reproductive hormones. Women with PCOS produce higher amounts of androgen, a male sex hormone. Too much androgen affects the ovary function.

The ovaries produce hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle. They also hold and release eggs for ovulation. Women with PCOS may release undeveloped eggs or not release any eggs at all during ovulation.

Women with PCOS also have problems with insulin, a hormone that helps get glucose from the blood into the cell for energy. Women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which means their cells respond less well to the actions of the insulin.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

Most women find out they have PCOS in their 20s or 30s when seeking help for infertility. PCOS is one of the most common causes of infertility in women.

Other symptoms of PCOS include:

Irregular menstrual cycle
Excess hair growth on the face, chest, abdomen, or thighs
Severe acne
Oily skin
Patches of thick, dark skin (acanthosis nigricans)
Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
Hair thinning
Skin tags

Multiple ovarian cysts are also common in women with PCOS.

If you have fewer than eight periods a year, you might have PCOS and should schedule a consultation with Dr.Tehmina

What tests diagnose PCOS?

There’s no single test to diagnose PCOS. When you come in with concerns about an irregular menstrual cycle or infertility, Dr Tehmina conducts a thorough history and physical examination to determine the underlying cause.

They review your symptoms, menstrual cycle, gynecological history, medical history, and family history. They perform a physical and pelvic exam. The team also does ultrasound testing to evaluate your reproductive organs to look for ovarian cysts.

They also run lab work to check hormone levels.

What are the treatments for PCOS?

There are many effective treatments for PCOS.Dr Tehmina customizes care based on symptoms, related health problems, and pregnancy plans.

Treatment for PCOS may include:

Combined hormonal birth control pills (estrogen and progestin)
Healthy diet
Regular exercise
Weight management
Anti-androgen medication
Insulin-sensitizing drugs
supplements

For women trying to get pregnant, the team may prescribe medication that increases ovulation.

What is menopause?

Menopause is a stage in a woman’s life that marks the end of her fertility but the beginning of an exciting new phase. You reach menopause when you go an entire year without your period. Most women enter menopause in their early 50s.

However, menopause doesn’t happen all at once. The road to menopause may start in your early to mid-40s.

During this transitional period called perimenopause, you may experience changes in your menstrual cycle. This occurs due to a slowdown in estrogen and progesterone production, the sex hormones that regulate your menstrual cycle.

Perimenopause may last up to four years.

What are the symptoms of menopause?

Many of the symptoms you associate with menopause start during the transitional period. These symptoms include:

Hot flashes
Night sweats
Mood changes
Depression
Weight gain
Thinning hair
Dryer skin
Vaginal dryness and discomfort
Low libido
Pain during intercourse
Fatigue
Difficulty sleeping

The hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause also affect your physical health, especially your bones. Estrogen supports bone growth. When estrogen levels fall, your bones may weaken, putting you at risk of developing osteoporosis.

When should I seek help for menopause?

You should seek help for menopause when you first experience symptoms. However, Dr. Tehmina may start talking to you about menopause long before the actual “change of life” at your annual well-woman visits.

Seeing your OB/GYN every year is the best way to monitor your health and take action to maintain or improve it before you have symptoms.

When you visit Dr Tehmina for a menopause evaluation, the team reviews your symptoms, medical history, gynecological history, and family history. They do a physical exam and may run lab work to check for any other possible causes of your symptoms.

What are the treatments for menopause?

Dr Tehmina offers many treatment options to help you get relief from your menopause symptoms. They work closely with you, designing a plan that fits your personal needs and goals.

Treatment for menopause may include:

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Antidepressants
Vaginal creams
Gabapentin for hot flashes
MonaLisa Touch® for vaginal dryness
Balanced diet
Nutritional supplements
Weight management
Regular exercise
Stress management

The team has you come in regularly to monitor your symptoms and treatment plan and make adjustments as needed.

You can take control of the symptoms and regain the life you love.

Book an In-person appointment.

Embark on your journey to wellness by booking an in-person appointment with Dr. Tehmina at Maroof International Hospital, Islamabad