"A Nursing Imprint for Better Health" Series Episode 5: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)… When Your Body Sends Signals You Shouldn't Ignore

📚 "A Nursing Imprint for Better Health" Series
Prepared by: Faculty of Nursing – Capital University
Towards a More Aware and Healthier Community ✨

Episode 5: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)… When Your Body Sends Signals You Shouldn't Ignore
🤔 Do you experience irregular menstrual periods, excessive hair growth, or difficulty losing weight? These may be signs of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting women of reproductive age.
🔹 What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects ovarian function and may result in:
Irregular or absent ovulation.
Elevated androgen (male hormone) levels.
Multiple small follicles (often called cysts) in the ovaries in some women.
💡 Important Note: Not every woman with PCOS has ovarian cysts, and the presence of ovarian cysts alone does not necessarily mean a woman has PCOS.

⚠️ Common Symptoms
✔️ Irregular or missed menstrual periods.
✔️ Excessive hair growth on the face or body (Hirsutism).
✔️ Acne and oily skin.
✔️ Hair thinning or hair loss from the scalp.
✔️ Weight gain, especially around the abdomen.
✔️ Difficulty becoming pregnant due to irregular ovulation.

🚨 Who Is at Higher Risk?
🔸 Family history of PCOS.
🔸 Overweight or obesity.
🔸 Insulin resistance.
🔸 Physical inactivity.

⚠️ Possible Complications if Left Untreated
🔴 Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.
🔴 High Blood Pressure.
🔴 Abnormal cholesterol and lipid levels.
🔴 Infertility or subfertility.
🔴 Increased risk of endometrial hyperplasia and endometrial cancer due to prolonged irregular ovulation.

💚 How Can PCOS Be Managed?
🥗 Follow a healthy, balanced diet.
🏃‍♀️ Engage in regular physical activity.
⚖️ Achieve and maintain a healthy weight, as even modest weight loss can improve ovulation and reduce symptoms.
👩‍⚕️ Attend regular medical follow-up visits and adhere to the prescribed treatment plan.
💊 Use medications only as prescribed by your healthcare provider, such as hormonal therapy, insulin-sensitizing medications, or fertility treatments when indicated.
💡 Remember: Early diagnosis and a healthy lifestyle can help control symptoms, reduce complications, and improve fertility outcomes for many women with PCOS.

✨ Thank you for following our series. Stay tuned for the next episode of "A Nursing Imprint for Better Health."
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