A gynaecologist, Dr Emem Jay, has warned that women with Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) may face increased risks of Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Jay of M and M Fertility Centre, Abuja, gave the warning in an interview with our correspondent on Wednesday.
He described PMOS as a hormonal and metabolic disorder that affects ovarian function and is closely linked to metabolic health.
According to him, many women with PMOS experience insulin resistance, abnormal cholesterol levels, increased abdominal fat or high blood pressure. When these conditions occur together, they may constitute metabolic syndrome, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes.
The gynaecologist said insulin resistance was common among women with PMOS and could occur even in those who were not overweight.
“Being slim does not rule out PMOS,” he said.
He explained that high insulin levels could stimulate the ovaries to produce more androgens and interfere with normal ovulation. Persistent insulin resistance, he added, could eventually increase the risk of prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes.
Common signs
Jay identified common features of PMOS as: Irregular or absent menstrual periods, Difficulty becoming pregnant, excessive facial or body hair, persistent acne,thinning hair, unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight, dark, thickened skin around the neck or other skin folds
He stressed that women with normal body weight could also develop PMOS and associated metabolic complications.
PMOS and fertility
According to Jay, PMOS can interfere with regular ovulation and affect fertility, but having the condition does not mean that a woman cannot conceive.
“Many women with PMOS conceive naturally or with appropriate treatment,” he said.
He advised women experiencing persistent menstrual irregularities, excessive facial hair, acne or unexplained fertility difficulties to seek medical assessment rather than normalising the symptoms.
Lifestyle and monitoring
Jay recommended regular physical activity, a balanced diet and adequate sleep. He also advised women with PMOS to monitor their blood pressure, blood glucose and cholesterol regularly.
He warned that unmanaged PMOS could be associated with high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, fertility difficulties and pregnancy complications.
He further said prolonged irregular periods could increase the risk of endometrial hyperplasia and, over time, endometrial cancer.
The gynaecologist cautioned against relying on social media advice, supplements or herbal mixtures as substitutes for professional diagnosis and treatment.
“PMOS is manageable, but management should be individualised,” he said.
He added that early detection, appropriate treatment, lifestyle modification and regular monitoring could help women with PMOS maintain good health and achieve pregnancy.
