Can PCOS/PMOS be treated without medications?

Question

Hello doctor,

My daughter, aged 25 years, has irregular menstruation, and she has gained weight too. When we consulted the doctor, she was found to have polycystic ovaries/polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome. But the cysts are few and are tiny in size, the doctor said. However, they have asked her to take a few medications for this. I am really worried about her taking the medications. Can this be treated without medications? Is this a permanent condition? What is the solution for this? Can lifestyle and diet changes help reverse this issue? If so, what are the required modifications?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome/polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PCOS/PMOS) is a condition that results from insulin (the hormone responsible for the breakdown of carbohydrates), resulting in many symptoms like:

1. Lack of ovulation: This leads to irregular menstruation and infertility.

2. Increase in the levels of male hormones, resulting in excessive male pattern hair growth.

3. Weight gain: Weight gain may occasionally not respond to exercise.

One of the lifestyle changes that can increase the body's sensitivity to insulin is exercise (30 minutes of exercise for at least three days a week) and dieting, which involves decreasing the intake of complex carbohydrates and opting more for fruits. This will help improve her body's sensitivity to insulin and help reverse most of the symptoms of PCOS/PMOS.

PCOS/PMOS-related weight gain occasionally may not respond to exercise. Some medications can be added to increase the sensitivity of the body's insulin while the individual continues to exercise and diet. In such cases, medications are used as part of management.

Also, management is symptom-directed:

1. Individuals with irregular periods can be given a tablet of Primolut N (norethisterone) every six weeks to induce a period if their period has not spontaneously commenced by itself. Consult your doctor and take the medicines accordingly. This is necessary to prevent complications like heavy bleeding, which can cause other complications and sometimes make blood transfusion necessary.

2. Individuals with infertility can be stimulated to ovulate if they desire to get pregnant.

So, generally, PCOS/PMOS is a manageable condition. Exercise and diet may suffice, but occasionally drugs are added to the management.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.