Ask the Doc
Dr. Sharda Jain, Senior Consultant Gynaecologist, National Commission for Women, New Delhi, replies to this week's queries.
I AM 37. Every month I bloat and retain water; my legs ache. Other symptoms are tender breasts; headaches; rashes on my neck, face; pain in my neck, left arm and back. With bloating blood pressure increases. Sometimes I feel I have to catch my breath. Lately my periods seem to be lighter than before. What is my problem? Name withheld
Answer: This is typically described as PMS — a group of symptoms that occur in a cyclic pattern, always in the premenstrual phase, interfering with work or lifestyle and followed by a period free of symptoms. The good news is that the vast majority of women with PMS can be helped. See a gynaecologist for reassurance and get guidance on healthy diet, exercise and sleep. Specific medication will cure you in no time.
I AM 26. I have irregular periods; my testosterone levels are high. Thyroid test was normal, as was prolactin. I was diagnosed for pcos (mild) but I get my periods when I take Duphaston. But even after treatment for one year the problem continues. Name withheld
Answer: You probably belong to lean PCOS group. See a gynaecological endocrinologist. She will investigate and put you on "Ginette 35" and insulin sensitisers (metformin). Continued treatment will bring you relief.
I AM 22. My periods this year has been irregular. I also noticed unwanted hair all over my body.From 2002, I am on Eltroxin for thyroid problem. Why do I have so much body hair? Name withheld
Answer: You have PCOS with mild Hirsuitism. Regular systematic treatment is required to get regular cycle and prevent extra growth of hair on your body. You also need monitoring for hypothyroidism.
MY sister has prolonged bleeding during periods. An ultrasound showed PCOD. Before that she was given regestron tablet. Since her cycle was not regular, she has been given metformin pills for six months. Will there be a problem due to this? Name withheld
Answer: PCOD or PCOS should not be neglected, as later in life it may be associated with obesity, type II diabetics, hypertension and even cancer of uterus at an early age. Your doctor is on the right track. Continued medication with metformin and few additional treatments will bring relief. However, your sister needs to be regular with follow-up.
I am an unmarried 24 years old girl. I have irregular periods for past three months. I had a similar problem one year ago. I was told to take a blood test and when the reports came I was prescribed b-complex tablets. I was fine after some time. But again I am facing this problem. I am told to take Duluton tablets. Does it have any side effects? I feel breathless and very giddy. Sometimes my stomach hurts very badly. Shweta
Answer: Menstrual irregularities are seen in 20 per cent of women. Whenever you have a problem, see a good gynaecologist. Medication for 3-4 months will set your cycle in order. If you are diagnosed with PCOS, then the treatment may be prolonged.
I AM 21years and was told I had a left ovarian cyst (2x2). The ultrasound report said that may be it was follicular. I started experiencing pain on the right side of the abdomen side immediately after my last period last month. I was given buscopan, but I still get pains at times. The doctor told me that if the pain was severe I should see a gynaecologist and have the cyst removed. I'm scared that the medications I am taking will affect my health. I am also worried the cyst might grow. Can this develop to ovarian cancer? Audra Wangai
Answer: The size of cyst in your left ovary at ultrasound was too small and usually size less than 5 cm does not require surgery and resolve by medicine it self. However, your persistent pain in abdomen is a cause for concern. See a good gynaecologist and get your problem sorted out.
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