Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): What You Need to Know
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects 1 in 10 women of childbearing age and is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age.
It is characterized by the presence of numerous small cysts on the ovaries as well as other hormonal, metabolic, and reproductive abnormalities that can adversely affect your ability to conceive a baby.
What causes PCOS?
The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but it is thought to be linked to a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
Research suggests that the condition may be caused by an imbalance in the hormones, such as androgens and insulin, or by certain genetic factors, including changes in the number or structure of certain genes.
It is possible that PCOS is caused by a combination of these factors.
What are the risks of PCOS?
Women with PCOS may be at increased risk for developing certain metabolic and reproductive health conditions, such as insulin resistance, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, infertility, endometrial cancer, depression, and anxiety.
Women with PCOS may also be at increased risk for developing polycystic ovarian syndrome-related complications during pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, preterm birth, and miscarriage.
What are the symptoms of PCOS?
The most common symptoms of PCOS include
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Excessive hair growth on the face
- Chest and back acne
- Weight gain
Women may also experience:
- Thinning hair on the scalp
- Infertility
- Acne
- Pelvic pain
How is PCOS diagnosed?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is diagnosed through a physical examination, blood tests, and an ultrasound to look for ovarian cysts. Your doctor may also order a hormone test to check for elevated levels of androgens or insulin.
Treatment options for PCOS vary, depending on the individual’s symptoms and medical history. Treatment may include lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, to help improve the condition.
Medications may also be prescribed to help regulate hormone levels and reduce symptoms.
What are the complications of PCOS?
Women with PCOS are at increased risk for developing certain metabolic and reproductive health conditions, including obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, infertility, endometrial cancer, depression, and anxiety.
Besides this, women with PCOS may be at increased risk for developing complications during pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, preterm birth, and miscarriage.
Living with PCOS
Living with PCOS can be challenging, but with just a few changes in your lifestyle, you can overcome this condition. There are ways to manage the condition and its symptoms.
- Eating a healthy diet
- Exercising regularly
- Reducing stress
- Getting enough sleep
All these factors can help improve symptoms of PCOS.
Also, don’t forget to visit the center for women’s health, and follow your doctor’s advice and take any medications prescribed.
When should I seek medical care?
If you think you may have PCOS, it is important to seek medical care as soon as possible. Your doctor can diagnose the condition and recommend treatment options that are best for you.
Medications can be prescribed to regulate the hormones that cause the symptoms of PCOS. Birth control pills are commonly used to regulate hormones and regulate the menstrual cycle.
PCOS can be a difficult condition to manage, but with proper treatment, women can live healthy and happy lives. If you think you may be suffering from PCOS, it is important to speak to your doctor about your symptoms and the possible treatments available.
