Overview
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a set of symptoms caused by a problem with a woman’s hormones. It affects the ovaries. These are the small organs that store a woman’s eggs. But it can also affect the rest of the body. PCOS is a very common condition in women of childbearing age. In some cases, it can lead to serious health issues if not treated. Ovulation happens when a mature egg is released from an ovary. This happens so it can be fertilized by a male sperm. If the egg is not fertilized, it is sent out of the body during your period.
Sometimes a woman’s ovaries don’t produce enough of the hormones required for ovulation, which leads to the development of numerous tiny, fluid-filled sacs called cysts. These cysts produce androgens, a type of hormone that is normally found in greater quantities in men but in smaller amounts in women. Women with PCOS frequently have high levels of androgens, which can lead to more issues with their menstrual cycles and many of the symptoms of PCOS. While medication isn’t a cure for PCOS, it can help manage symptoms and prevent certain health issues.
Signs and symptoms
PCOS symptoms typically begin around the time of the first menstrual cycle. Sometimes, after you have been having periods for a while, symptoms appear later.
PCOS symptoms might vary. When at least two of these occur, PCOS is diagnosed:
- Irregular times. One of the most typical indicators of PCOS is irregular or infrequent menstruation.
- Having periods that last many days is also an issue.
- An excess of androgen. Excess body and facial hair can be caused by high amounts of the androgen hormone. We refer to this as hirsutism.
- polycystic ovaries. You may have larger ovaries. Around the ovary’s border, many follicles with immature eggs may form. The ovaries may not function properly.
PCOS causes
Although the precise origin of PCOS is unknown, we do know that it is a hormonal disorder. It could be linked to genetics, lifestyle, environment, and family history.
The term ‘polycystic ovary syndrome’ implies that the issue is primarily with the ovaries and that you may have several ovarian cysts. However, it’s a hormone-related condition.
Making a diagnosis
At least two of the following symptoms must be present to diagnose polycystic ovarian syndrome:
- indications of excessive testosterone levels, such as undesired body or facial hair, hair loss on the head,
- acne, or an increased blood level of testosterone, after other potential causes have been ruled out;
- Menstrual irregularities or absence, following the exclusion of other reasons, and polycystic ovaries on
- ultrasound imaging.
- Characteristic abnormalities in hormone levels can be detected by blood tests. Women with polycystic
ovarian syndrome may have higher levels of:
- Luteinizing hormone (LH), a pituitary hormone that affects the ovaries’ synthesis of hormones.
- testosterone, an ovarian androgen hormone that affects hair growth
- estrogen, an ovarian hormone that promotes the growth of the endometrium, the lining of the womb
PCOS management and treatment
To control your symptoms and enhance your long-term health, it’s critical to collaborate with your physician and healthcare team.
Your team of PCOS doctors
A variety of medical specialists can assist you, depending on your symptoms, including:
- A general practitioner
- A specialist in hormones, or an endocrinologist
- An exercise physiologist, dermatologist, dietician, and gynecologist
- An expert in fertility
- A healthy way of living
- The best strategy to control PCOS symptoms is to lead a healthy lifestyle.
This includes maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and cutting back on or quitting smoking and binge drinking.
Drugs
To treat PCOS, your doctor may also suggest specific medications. For instance, Metformin and hormonal contraception.
Stress, anxiety, and sadness can be brought on by PCOS.