PCOS Treatment in Delhi – Comprehensive Guide by Dr. Deepika Singh

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting women of reproductive age. In India, it is estimated that nearly 1 in 5 women suffer from PCOS. Despite its prevalence, many women remain undiagnosed or struggle with managing its varied symptoms.

Dr. Deepika Singh, a leading gynecologist in South Delhi, specializes in the comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of PCOS. This guide explores everything you need to know about the condition and how expert medical care can help you regain control of your health.

What is PCOS / PCOD?

PCOS is a hormonal disorder characterized by enlarged ovaries that contain small collections of fluid (follicles) — though not all women with PCOS actually have cysts. These follicles fail to release eggs regularly.

Often, the terms PCOS and PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) are used interchangeably, but there is a clinical distinction. PCOD is generally a milder condition where ovaries produce immature eggs that become cysts. PCOS is a more severe metabolic disorder with broader systemic implications, including higher levels of male hormones (androgens).

Symptoms of PCOS

The symptoms of PCOS can vary greatly from woman to woman. They typically develop around the time of the first menstrual period, though they can also develop later in life in response to significant weight gain. Common symptoms include:

• Irregular Periods: Infrequent, irregular, or prolonged menstrual cycles are the most common sign.
• Excess Androgen: Elevated levels of male hormones may result in physical signs, such as excess facial and body hair (hirsutism), and occasionally severe acne and male-pattern baldness.
• Weight Gain: Many women with PCOS struggle with weight gain or find it incredibly difficult to lose weight.
• Skin Changes: Darkening of the skin (acanthosis nigricans), particularly along neck creases, in the groin, and underneath breasts.
• Infertility: PCOS is one of the leading causes of female infertility due to lack of regular ovulation.

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, several factors play a role:

• Insulin Resistance: Up to 70% of women with PCOS have insulin resistance, meaning their cells can't use insulin properly. This leads to increased insulin production, which in turn drives androgen production, interfering with ovulation.
• Low-grade Inflammation: Research shows women with PCOS have a type of low-grade inflammation that stimulates polycystic ovaries to produce androgens.
• Genetics: Studies indicate that certain genes might be linked to PCOS; it often runs in families.

How is PCOS Diagnosed?

Dr. Deepika Singh utilizes the Rotterdam Criteria for diagnosis. You must have at least two of the following three signs:

1. Irregular or absent menstrual periods.
2. Clinical or biochemical signs of excess androgens (like hirsutism or high testosterone levels in blood tests).
3. Polycystic ovaries seen on an ultrasound.

Diagnosis involves a thorough physical exam, a detailed medical history, blood tests (checking LH, FSH, AMH, testosterone, thyroid function, and fasting insulin/glucose), and a pelvic ultrasound.

PCOS Treatment Options at Our South Delhi Clinic

PCOS treatment focuses on managing individual concerns, such as infertility, hirsutism, acne, or obesity. Dr. Deepika Singh believes in a holistic approach:

• Lifestyle Modifications: Diet and exercise are the first lines of defense. A low-carbohydrate, anti-inflammatory diet combined with regular physical activity can improve insulin resistance and induce ovulation.
• Medications:
  • Birth Control Pills: To regulate menstrual cycles and lower androgen levels.
  • Metformin: To improve insulin resistance.
  • Anti-androgens: To reduce hair growth and acne.
  • Ovulation Induction: Medications like Clomiphene or Letrozole for women trying to conceive.
• Surgical Options: In rare cases, a minimally invasive procedure called Laparoscopic Ovarian Drilling (LOD) may be recommended to trigger ovulation when medications fail.

Why Choose Dr. Deepika for PCOS Treatment?

With her MD from AIIMS New Delhi and extensive research background, Dr. Deepika Singh brings evidence-based, compassionate care to every PCOS patient. She understands that PCOS requires long-term management and works closely with patients to develop realistic, sustainable treatment plans.