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PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is a common hormonal disorder that affects women. It can cause a variety of symptoms including irregular menstrual cycles, excess hair growth, acne, and obesity.
The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but it often runs in families. Here's an overview of some key things to know:
With PCOS, women's ovaries produce higher-than-normal amounts of androgens (male hormones). This causes cysts (fluid-filled sacs) to form on the ovaries.
- Common Signs and Symptoms
Common PCOS signs and symptoms include:
- Irregular periods - Women may have fewer than 9 periods per year, cycles longer than 35 days, or absent periods
- Excess hair growth - More hair than usual may grow on the face, chest, belly, or back
- Acne - Women may develop severe acne, especially along the chin, jawline, and neck
- Weight gain - Many women with PCOS struggle with weight control and have central obesity
- Hair loss - Some women experience thinning hair or male-pattern baldness
- Getting Diagnosed
To be diagnosed with PCOS, women must have at least two of these three criteria:
- High levels of male hormones (androgens)
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Polycystic ovaries visible on an ultrasound
Over time, PCOS puts women at higher risk for serious health problems like:
- Diabetes - Up to 80% of women with PCOS develop insulin resistance
- Infertility - PCOS is the most common cause of female infertility
- Metabolic syndrome - This cluster of conditions includes high blood pressure, high blood sugars, unhealthy cholesterol levels, and increased belly fat
- Endometrial cancer - The abnormal hormone levels of PCOS can cause excessive growth of the uterus lining
- Treatment Options
There's no cure for PCOS. But symptoms can often be managed with lifestyle changes and medications including:
- Healthy diet - Losing just 5% of body weight can help restart regular cycles
- Exercise - As little as 30 minutes a day can lower insulin and androgen levels
- Birth control pills - These regulate menstrual cycles and female hormone levels
- Fertility treatments - Medications can help women ovulate regularly and get pregnant
I hope this overview on polycystic ovary syndrome gives you a good understanding of what it is, what it involves, and how it is treated.