PCOS
The most prevalent endocrine disorder in females of reproductive age is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). The prevalence ranges between 5% and 15% depending on the diagnostic criteria. At least two of the following three conditions:-
- Chronic Anovulation
- Polycystic Ovaries
- Clinical or Biological Hyperandrogenism
is required to diagnose PCOS. It is an exclusionary diagnosis; thus, conditions that resemble the clinical characteristics of PCOS must be ruled out. These include non-classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hyperprolactinemia, and thyroid illness. Individuals may require a more thorough workup if clinical signs indicate alternative causes.
Despite its high incidence, PCOS is underdiagnosed and frequently requires many visits or diagnoses from different doctors, typically taking longer than a year. For the patient, it is a highly frustrating process. In addition, delay in diagnosis can cause comorbidities to increase, making it more challenging to undertake lifestyle interventions, which are essential for improving the characteristics of PCOS and quality of life