PCOS awareness month: Is ‘No to motherhood’ a solution? Decode the health condition at various stages of woman’s life

Despite respecting the role of a mother, some females in recent times resonate with the 'no-to-motherhood' attitude. Repeated studies have pointed out the fact that women falling under the reproductive age are not equally ready or willing to embrace motherhood, in comparison to the last generations.

Women with polycystic ovaries are prone to miscarriages, complications during pregnancy and more relating to reproductive health. Is having a ‘No to motherhood’ a solution from the medical condition?

This PCOS awareness month, take a moment to understand your health better. "PCOS is a serious common, genetic, hormonal and a metabolic health condition that affects women. It is a leading cause of infertility and complications in a woman's reproductive system," says Delhi-based obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Nivedita Kaul.

Is ‘No to motherhood’ a solution to deal with reproductive challenges?

Healthcare experts refuse the popular notion that women who do not want to become biological mothers can let PCOS unattended.

“It affects other organs as well than just ovaries. PCOS is primarily known for troubled ovulation and infertility concerns, women may have a higher risk of Cardiac issues, T2 Diabetes and Osteoporosis. In addition, the hyperandrogenic condition can cause acne, unwanted facial hair and male-patterns of baldness while irregular periods may lead to endometrial or ovarian cancer," says Dr Aruna Kalra, a Gurgaon-based obstetrician, gynaecologist and laparoscopic surgeon.

Dr Nivedita Kaul says, "PCOS can also lead to obesity and uterine cancer. It may pose threat to individual's metabolism."

Effects of PCOS at various stages of a woman's life

Puberty

Early detection paves a way to longer and intensive care. Experts strongly recommend girls to keep a track of their menstrual cycle—date of period, severity of flow, number of days it lasts, physical changes—and consult a doctor in case of any noticed abnormalities.

Sex-life and libido

Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, usually, have reduced sexual desire and are more passive. As per a few reports, factors such as physical (hirsutism, obesity), emotional (mood swings, lack of desire and excitement) and hormonal fluctuations can affect the sexual life.

Pregnancy

Women with PCOS are more likely to suffer a miscarriage. They are also at a higher risk to develop complications like gestational diabetes, pregnancy induced hypertension and their babies are at an increased risk of preterm birth.

Breastfeeding

Though most PCOS women can breastfeed, they initially face issues. However, once breastfeeding is established, they usually tend to no longer hold concerns.

Menopause

Metabolic changes, mainly lipid profile and reproductive hormones are different in PCOS and non-PCOS menopausal women. According to experts, women with PCOS reach menopause a little later and have lower serum Follicle Stimulating Hormone, FSH.