What you need to know about PCOS and what to do if you suspect you may have the syndrome
Photo by charlesdeluvio on Unsplash
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a very common condition amongst women of reproductive age. This article exposes everything you need to know about this, including what it is, symptoms, possible causes as well as what to do if you think you may be experiencing PCOS.
What Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
Polycystic ovary syndrome, referred to as PCOS, is a common condition that affects how a woman’s ovaries function.
Polycystic ovary syndrome is known for having three main features that are irregular periods, where your ovaries don’t ovulate regularly, excess androgen, in which a woman presents elevated levels of “male” hormones in the body, provoking excess body and facial hair, and polycystic ovaries, in which the ovaries enlarge their size and contain several fluid-filled follicles that surround the eggs.
Having at least two of these characteristics means that you may be diagnosed with PCOS.
Symptoms Of PCOS
Missed, irregular, infrequent, or prolonged periods are the most prevalent PCOS symptoms. Excess androgens can lead to hair loss, unwanted hair (such as on the face), and acne.
Darkened skin or extra skin (skin tags) on the neck or armpits, mood swings, pelvic pain, weight increase around the middle, thinning hair and hair loss on the head, as well as greasy or acne-prone skin, are some of the other symptoms. Polycystic 0vary syndrome is also linked to a higher chance of acquiring health issues later in life, such as type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol.
Causes Of PCOS
PCOS hasn’t been pinpointed as to what causes it. Excess insulin, a hormone generated in the pancreas that permits cells to use sugar, your body’s principal energy source, could be a factor. Excess insulin may boost testosterone production, making ovulation problematic.
Low-grade inflammation plays a role in the illness as well. The synthesis of chemicals by white blood cells to fight infection is referred to as this phrase. Women with PCOS have a form of low-grade inflammation that causes their polycystic ovaries to create androgens, which can cause heart and blood vessel problems, according to research.
Furthermore, because inheritance plays a significant part in this, research reveals that specific genes may be associated with PCOS. Excess androgen is also a possible cause of the condition, resulting in hirsutism and acne to develop.
Treating Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
PCOS has no treatment, although the symptoms can be managed. If you’re overweight and have PCOS, decreasing weight and eating a healthy, balanced diet will help alleviate certain symptoms.
Medications can also be used to treat symptoms like excessive hair growth, irregular periods, and fertility issues. Most women with PCOS can conceive after receiving therapy.
If you suspect you may have the syndrome, book a consultation with us to get properly diagnosed and decide the best treatment for your body and condition. At Her Down There we provide women with quick, affordable, and accurate health care services so everyone can access a quality life.