Observational study on risk factors, complications and management of polycystic ovarian syndrome

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a condition in women of reproductive age which is characterised by hormonal imbalance, chronic an ovulation, signs of multiple small ovarian cysts and excess androgen levels. A prospective observational study was conducted on 110 PCOS women of reproductive age (16-38 years) fulfilling the revised Rotterdam 2003 criteria were studied for a period of 6 months. The data was noted on a self-designed preform including patient demographics, symptoms, menstrual pattern, diagnostic test results and current medication related to management of PCOS. Self- report measures of both anxiety and depression were noted on two different inventories namely, Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomology (QIDS SR-16) and Beck anxiety inventory (BAI). The collected data was statistically analysed. In our study PCOS was observed more between the age group of 20 – 30 years (80.9%). Primary infertility (69.1%) was found to be higher than secondary infertility (31.9%). Most of them were overweight (34.5%) and obese (17.2%) with waist to hip ratio greater than 0.85 in 66.36% patients. Symptoms like Hirsutism (66.4%), acne (59.1%), hair loss (88.2%), and acanthosis nigricans (72.7%) were mostly monitored. Out of total population, a greater frequency of women was observed to have depression (52.7%) and also anxiety (52.7%). Metformin (45.5%) was the most prescribed drug.87.27% of the patients showed medication compliance which showed a positive effect on the management of the symptoms. This study concludes that psychological wellbeing of the patient has to be taken care of by proper education regarding the condition to both the patient and the guardian as this may help deal with the emotional pressure aimed at the patient. Regular counselling alongside life style management and pharmacological therapy improves the overall disease prognosis.