The primary cause of infertility in women is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder that affects many women. Despite being a common condition, women often delay getting a definitive diagnosis and treatment for polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) due to lack of awareness.

Every September, the world observes Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Awareness Month, a global healthcare event that aims to improve the lives of people with PCOS, help them overcome their symptoms, and prevent and lower their risk of developing life-threatening conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and cancer.

About one in ten women of reproductive age suffer with PCOS, a hormonal imbalance. It happens when a woman's adrenal glands or ovaries produce more male hormones—especially androgens—than is normal.

Many symptoms, such as the following, may result from this hormonal imbalance:

• Period irregularities

• Ovarian cysts

• Oily skin or acne

• Hirsutism: or excessive facial, chest, or back hair development

• Hair loss or thinning on the scalp

• Weight gain or having trouble losing it

• Problems with conception

Although the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, evidence indicates that genetics, inflammation, and insulin resistance may be involved. Metabolic problems are common in women with PCOS and can raise the risk of type 2 diabetes.

PCOS is a serious genetic, hormonal, metabolic, and reproductive condition that primarily affects women and girls. In addition to being the primary cause of infertility in women, it is a risk factor for other serious illnesses such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and endometrial cancer.

One of the main causes of infertility is PCOS, a disorder that can result in excess testosterone, irregular periods, hormonal abnormalities, and ovarian cysts. It's vital to remember that although it is an incurable chronic condition, certain symptoms can be relieved by medication, lifestyle modifications, and fertility therapies. This demonstrates how important lifestyle modifications can be in the management of PCOS.

Certain ethnic groups have a higher prevalence of PCOS, and they also often experience additional issues, particularly those pertaining to metabolism. Mental health issues and social stigma can result from PCOS's biological and psychological impacts, especially those linked to obesity, body image, and infertility.

PCOS Awareness Month helps raise awareness about the condition, supports people in managing their symptoms, and reduces the risk of related health issues.

The objectives of PCOS Awareness Month include:

• Increasing public knowledge: Educating women, girls, healthcare professionals, and the general public about PCOS

• Making identification and treatment more effective

• Sharing knowledge about various options for diagnosis and treatment

• Improving PCOS outcomes and quality of life for females

• Promoting more studies: Better solutions for PCOS treatment, and eventually a cure

• Acknowledging the difficulties that all female PCOS sufferers experience

• Encouraging healthcare workers and medical researchers to learn more about PCOS in order to improve diagnosis, research, and assistance for those who are impacted

PCOS prevention strategies include:

• Keeping a healthy weight by emphasizing regular physical activity and a balanced diet

• Using stress-reduction methods like yoga or meditation can help you manage your stress

• Keeping an eye on your hormone levels with your doctor

• Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and smoking

• Tracking the menstrual cycle

Recognize that you are not alone if you or someone you care about has PCOS. On your path to improved fertility and wellness, we are here to help. Get in touch with Vriksh Fertility today to find out more about how we can help you control PCOS and increase your fertility.