7 Facts About Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

According to MyHealth Portal, Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormone disorder that affects women of reproductive age.

The effects can begin straight after menarche, while for some in response to weight gain.

Here are 7 facts about PCOS that you should know:

1. PCOS is a collection of problems that are found together and not all women have all the same symptoms. Diagnosis is made once the patient has any of these two problems: lack of ovulation substantial (anovulation), high testosterone (male hormone) levels (hyperandrogenism) and multiple small cysts located along the outer edge of ovary (polycystic).

2.The most common problem encountered in PCIOS is menstrual abnormality such as prolonged interval in between menses, failure to menstruate and prolonged scanty or heavy periods.

3. Patients may have excess facial/body hair, acne and male-pattern baldness that reflect excess androgen.

4.  In other patients, the inability to become pregnant may be the first sign. Ultrasound examination especially done via the vagina might show enlarged ovaries containing multiple small cysts.

5. The exact cause is still unknown but certain factors may play a role. These include insulin resistance resulting in excess insulin production. It is felt that the excess insulin could boost androgen production in the ovaries. There could to be hereditary link among female family members.

6. PCOS can increase the risk of long-term complications such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease especially if obesity is also present.

7. There is no cure for PCOS however different treatment options can alleviate symptoms of this disease including infertility. The advised treatment option is a healthy lifestyle with ideal body weight.

Source: MyHealth Portal