POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME (PCO) WOMEN WITH PREVALENCE IN LARKANA PAKISTAN

Abstract

Introduction: Obesity hirsutism infertility menstrual dysfunction and acne are symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) a common but little-studied hormonal disorder that affects 6–13% of women of reproductive age but is particularly high in Pakistan at 52%. In 15 studies 10% of participants had PCOS.

Objective: - The aim to assess the prevalence of PCOS among women in Larkana, Pakistan.

Methodology:6105 women with PCOS ages 15 to 35 who visited an outpatient gynecology clinic in Larkana between January 2019 and December 2024 participated in the prospective cross-sectional study. Data was gathered through structured interviews regarding PCOS symptoms such as irregular menstruation or hyperandrogenism (Rotterdam diagnostic criteria 2003). In Larkana the prevalence was examined between 2010 and 2024.

Results: From 2019 to 2024, 43,805 women aged 30.8 to 36.34 years were studied, with 6,105 diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), indicating a prevalence of 13.9%. The average age of diagnosed women was 29.29 years. Common complaints among PCOS patients included obesity (23.67% were overweight or obese), infertility (99% of cases), irregular menstruation (22.17%), hirsutism (13.38%), and acanthosis (6.75%).

Conclusion: PCOS, prevalent among reproductive-aged women in Larkana, presents with symptoms such as menstrual irregularity, oligomenorrhea, excess androgen, obesity, and infertility. Complications associated with the disorder can affect metabolism, heart health, reproduction, and mental health. There is a need for further research involving larger populations and enhanced diagnostic techniques, along with comprehensive management strategies.