TLDR Primary care for PCOS focuses on lifestyle changes, medication based on symptoms, and mental health, with diabetes screening and specialist referral for severe cases.
The document from 2018 discusses the management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in primary care, emphasizing its common symptoms like acne, hirsutism, obesity, menstrual irregularities, and infertility, which stem from androgen excess, anovulation, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome. It outlines the Rotterdam criteria for diagnosis and stresses the importance of screening for Type 2 diabetes mellitus due to the high risk in women with PCOS. Management strategies include lifestyle modifications, pharmacological therapy based on symptoms and patient goals, and addressing mental health concerns. The document also highlights the necessity of inducing a withdrawal bleed in patients with infrequent menses to prevent endometrial hyperplasia and recommends specialist referral for severe cases. A case study is mentioned where a patient experienced improvement in acne and overall health after six months on the oral contraceptive pill and regular exercise.
767 citations,
September 2016 in “Human Reproduction” Polycystic ovary syndrome affects about 6-10% of women, with varying symptoms and the need for standardized global definitions.
467 citations,
October 2014 in “European Journal of Endocrinology” The European Society of Endocrinology advises individualized long-term management for PCOS, focusing on lifestyle changes, accurate diagnosis, and treatments for associated health risks and symptoms.
951 citations,
December 2013 in “Clinical epidemiology” PCOS is a common hormonal disorder in women that can be managed with lifestyle changes and various medications.
1265 citations,
October 2013 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” The guideline suggests using specific criteria to diagnose PCOS, recommends various treatments for its symptoms, and advises screening for related health issues.
98 citations,
July 2011 in “Fertility and Sterility” An mFG score of 5 or more indicates above-normal hair growth in Southern Chinese women.
28 citations,
October 2007 in “PubMed” Low iron levels are linked to more hair loss in non-menopausal women.
989 citations,
August 2007 in “The Lancet” PCOS is a complex condition with major health impacts, needing more research for better diagnosis and treatment.
4809 citations,
January 2004 in “Fertility and Sterility” The 2003 consensus updated PCOS diagnosis criteria and highlighted increased risks of diabetes and heart disease for those affected.
1 citations,
August 2013 in “Springer eBooks” Birth control pills and anti-androgen medications help manage hair growth, acne, and hair loss in women with PCOS.
10 citations,
November 2010 in “Skin therapy letter” Women with PCOS often have acne because of high androgen levels, and the article reviewed how to treat this type of acne.
5 citations,
June 2010 in “Endocrinología y Nutrición” Diagnosing and managing PCOS in teens is hard, but early diagnosis and lifestyle changes are key, and more research is needed for long-term health.
50 citations,
February 2007 in “Clinical obstetrics and gynecology” Early detection and treatment of PCOS in teenagers is important to manage symptoms and prevent severe issues.
