This procedure is carried out to release excessive fluid in women with polycystic ovaries. A polycystic ovarian syndrome is a hormonal condition in which women have a large number of small follicles that fail to ovulate at the time of ovulation.
It affects about 10 % of women of reproductive age group.
SYMPTOMS
Women present with:
- Irregular menses
- occasional long periods without menses,
- a male pattern of hair distribution,
- acne
- elevated blood sugar
CAUSE
While the exact cause is unknown it is linked to excessive blood sugar production, leading to excess production of androgens leading to ovulation difficulty.
PREVENTION
Weight reduction may help reduce complications associated with the disease.
TREATMENT
Early diagnosis is important.
Initial management is with ovulation induction agents like Clomiphene citrate [Clomid]. If there is no response to the medications, Laparoscopic drilling of the ovary is carried out to reduce the ovarian stroma. Most women will resume normal menses after the procedure.
WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR
You need to see your doctor if you have:
- Your voice becomes deeper, you start having excessive hair, you develop acne and your menstrual pattern becomes irregular
You do a pelvic scan and the ovaries are polycystic
