2023-07-13 16:31:23
Title: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Challenges and Misdiagnosis in German Healthcare
Subtitle: Gynecology Podcast Sheds Light on the Experiences of PCOS Patients
Germany, home to over a million women affected by Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), faces significant challenges when it comes to the medical care and treatment of this hormonal and metabolic disease. Although research on PCOS is abundant, the experiences of patients reveal a grim reality of inaccurate diagnoses and outdated advice within gynecology practices.
A recent episode of Gyncast, a gynecology podcast by Tagesspiegel, delved into the stories of dozens of PCOS sufferers, highlighting their struggles with the medical care system. Positive accounts of their experiences were few and far between, with many sharing their frustration over misdiagnoses and inadequate information.
In one instance, a Gyncast listener recounted her doctor initially suspecting she was pregnant based on her symptoms, only to reveal later through an ultrasound scan that she may never be able to conceive. With inadequate explanations from her doctor, this woman, who is currently training to be a midwife, had to seek reliable information about PCOS independently.
However, large-scale studies from Scandinavia have recently shed light on the fact that women with PCOS have very good chances of having their own children if they receive proper medical care and have sufficient time and resources. The key, it appears, lies in ensuring patients receive the right assistance.
Professor Dr. Mandy Mangler, Head Physician in Gynecology, offers two reasons for the problems surrounding PCOS treatment in Germany. Firstly, due to financial reasons, PCOS has not received the attention it deserves from the research community. “There’s not a lot of money to be made there,” says Dr. Mangler in the podcast.
Additionally, PCOS falls within the borders of multiple medical disciplines, including gynecology and endocrinology. Consequently, patients often face difficulties in identifying the appropriate healthcare professional to address their condition.
PCOS is a disease that affects not only a woman’s menstrual cycle and fertility but her entire body. The podcast episode explains how the syndrome manifests in different ways, from the presence of cysts on the ovaries (which contribute to the name of the disease) to an increased risk of diabetes, psychological effects, and unwanted hair growth.
To combat the challenges faced by PCOS patients, Dr. Mangler offers advice on available aids that can help individuals lead symptom-free lives. By listening to the Gyncast, patients can gain valuable insights into their condition and discover potential solutions.
With PCOS impacting so many women in Germany, it is evident that improvements are needed in the diagnosis, treatment, and overall management of the disease. By raising awareness through platforms like Gyncast, it is hoped that the medical community will give the necessary attention and resources to better support those affected by PCOS in the future.
About the Gyncast:
“Gyncast” is a gynecology podcast hosted by Chief Physician Professor Dr. Mandy Mangler. In each episode, Dr. Mangler offers insights into how the female body functions and provides valuable information on various women’s health topics. Subscribe to Gyncast on Spotify, Apple, or your preferred podcast platform to stay informed.]
#disease #PCOS #gynaecologists