Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Most Effective Dietary Supplements

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting 5 to 10% of women of reproductive age. It manifests as an excess of androgens (male hormones), irregular ovulation, and the presence of numerous small follicles in the ovaries. This syndrome is the most frequent cause of infertility related to anovulation. It's often associated with insulin resistance, weight gain, and an increased risk of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases.

Causes and Mechanisms

PCOS is a complex disorder influenced by several factors: • Hyperandrogenism: The ovaries produce too many androgens, disrupting ovulation. • Insulin Resistance: Approximately half of women with PCOS exhibit insulin resistance, exacerbating hyperandrogenism and creating a vicious cycle between hormonal and metabolic imbalances. • Genetic Factors: There is a hereditary component in PCOS, with several genes involved in hormone production and gonadotropin regulation. • Neuroendocrine Dysfunction: A dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which controls reproductive hormones, also seems to play a role in PCOS.

Symptoms

The manifestations of PCOS vary among women, but the most common include: • Menstrual Disorders: Irregular cycles or absence of menstruation due to anovulation. • Hyperandrogenism: Excessive hair growth (hirsutism), acne, and androgenic alopecia. • Infertility: Related to the lack of regular ovulation. • Metabolic Complications: Obesity, insulin resistance, lipid imbalance, with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis is based on the Rotterdam criteria (2003), where two of the following three elements must be present: • Absence of ovulation or irregular cycles. • Signs of hyperandrogenism, either clinically or biologically evident. • Ovary containing at least 12 follicles visible on ultrasound or having a volume greater than 10 mL. Before confirming PCOS, it is important to exclude other causes of androgen excess, such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia or Cushing's syndrome.

Treatment

The management of PCOS aims to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications: • Hormonal Treatments: Oral contraceptives are often prescribed to regulate cycles, decrease androgens, and prevent the risks of endometrial hyperplasia. Antiandrogens may be used to reduce excessive hair growth. • Lifestyle Modification: Weight loss through a balanced diet and regular physical activity often improves insulin sensitivity and can restore ovulation in some women. • Fertility Treatments: Medications that stimulate ovulation, like clomiphene or letrozole, are prescribed to help women wishing to conceive. In some cases, in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be considered.