Pharmacological Treatment of PCOS
Expert-defined terms from the Graduate Certificate in PCOS Integrative Healthcare course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Androgen Excess #
Androgen excess is a common feature of PCOS, characterized by an overproduction of androgens, or male hormones, by the ovaries. This can lead to hirsutism (excessive hair growth), acne, and male-pattern baldness.
Anti #
Androgen Medications: Anti-androgen medications are used to reduce the effects of androgen excess in PCOS. These medications work by blocking the action of androgens on the skin and hair follicles. Examples include spironolactone and flutamide.
Clomiphene Citrate #
Clomiphene citrate is a medication used to induce ovulation in women with PCOS. It works by blocking the action of estrogen on the pituitary gland, which leads to an increase in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, promoting ovulation.
Diet and Exercise #
Diet and exercise are important components of PCOS management. A healthy diet, rich in whole foods and low in processed foods, can help manage weight, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Regular exercise can also help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Electrolyte Imbalance #
Electrolyte imbalance can occur as a side effect of some PCOS medications, such as spironolactone. Electrolytes are important for maintaining fluid balance, muscle function, and nerve function. An imbalance can lead to symptoms such as muscle cramps, weakness, and irregular heartbeat.
Follicle #
Stimulating Hormone (FSH): Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the growth and development of follicles in the ovaries. FSH levels may be low in women with PCOS, which can contribute to irregular ovulation and menstrual cycles.
Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT) #
A glucose tolerance test (GTT) is a test used to diagnose insulin resistance and diabetes. It involves drinking a solution containing a standard amount of glucose and having blood samples taken at regular intervals to measure glucose and insulin levels.
Hirsutism #
Hirsutism is excessive hair growth in women in areas where men typically have hair, such as the face, chest, and back. It is a common feature of PCOS and is caused by androgen excess.
Insulin #
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates blood sugar levels. Insulin resistance is a common feature of PCOS, in which the body's cells become less responsive to insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels and an increased risk of diabetes.
Insulin #
Sensitizing Medications: Insulin-sensitizing medications, such as metformin, are used to improve insulin sensitivity in women with PCOS. These medications work by increasing the body's sensitivity to insulin, reducing insulin resistance, and improving blood sugar control.
Luteinizing Hormone (LH) #
Luteinizing hormone (LH) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that triggers ovulation in the ovaries. LH levels may be high in women with PCOS, which can contribute to irregular ovulation and menstrual cycles.
Metabolic Syndrome #
Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. These conditions include insulin resistance, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity.
Metformin #
Metformin is an insulin-sensitizing medication used to manage insulin resistance and improve blood sugar control in women with PCOS. It works by reducing glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity in the muscles and liver.
Oligomenorrhea #
Oligomenorrhea is infrequent menstrual periods, defined as fewer than six to eight periods per year. It is a common feature of PCOS and is caused by irregular ovulation.
Ovarian Drilling #
Ovarian drilling is a surgical procedure used to induce ovulation in women with PCOS who do not respond to medication. It involves making small holes in the ovary to release eggs and improve hormone production.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) #
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, androgen excess, and polycystic ovaries.
Polycystic Ovaries #
Polycystic ovaries are ovaries that contain multiple small follicles, or cysts. Polycystic ovaries are a common feature of PCOS but are not diagnostic of the condition.
Weight Loss #
Weight loss is an important component of PCOS management, as it can improve insulin sensitivity, reduce androgen excess, and improve menstrual regularity. Even a modest weight loss of 5-10% of body weight can have significant health benefits.
h2>Conclusion #
h2>Conclusion
This glossary provides a comprehensive overview of key terms and concepts relate… #
Understanding these terms is essential for healthcare professionals who work with women with PCOS, as it can help inform diagnosis, treatment, and management strategies. By promoting a holistic approach to PCOS care, healthcare professionals can help women with PCOS achieve optimal health outcomes and improve their quality of life.