Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), also known as Polycystic Ovary Disease is a disorder that occurs due to imbalances or abnormalities in the hormones. Hormonal abnormalities can make the ovaries produce more eggs. These eggs turn into Cysts and the ovaries become large and studded with numerous Cysts (polycystic). It may begin in the teenage years and mostly affects women of childbearing age.

Thesymptoms of PCOS are very pronounced in some women, while in others thesymptoms may not be visible at all. Here are some of the most commonsymptoms of PCOS:

• Irregular or no menstrual bleeding: This is the most common and noticeable symptom. If you experience menstrual cycles that occur at intervals longer than 35 days or fewer than eight times a year it could be a warning sign.
• Extra hair growth: Polycystic Ovary syndrome can lead to higher levels of male hormones. This can give rise to hair growth on your upper lip and chin, chest, nipple area, lower abdomen, back, upper arms or inner thighs. In some women male pattern baldness and Acne can occur. However, not all women with PCOS exhibit excess hair growth.
• If you have been unable to get pregnant you may have PCOS since it is one of the most common causes of female infertility. Sometimes it may also lead to multiple early abortions.
• Obesity and diabetes: In women with PCOS, the ability to use Insulin effectively is reduced. Due to this you may put on excessive weight. Additionally the body’s inability to use up the Insulin effectively can raise blood sugar levels and lead to diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease.

Causes of PCOS/PCOD

Every month, when the ovaries release eggs (ovulation), they also release the female hormones, Estrogen and Progesterone and secrete a small amount of the male sex Hormone called androgen. All women produce a certain amount of androgen. But if PCOS is present, ovaries may produce an excess amount of androgen. Excessive androgen secretions can lead to excess hair growth, irregular bleeding or no menstrual bleeding and infertility.Nobody knows the exact cause of PCOS. However, there have been varied speculations on the topic.

Diagnosis

If you have not been ovulating for some time and have signs of androgen excess you may have PCOS. To arrive at a diagnosis of polycystic Ovary syndrome, your doctor may ask you about your signs and symptoms, menstrual cycle, general health and then rule out the possibility of other disorders. Your doctor may suggest a pelvic examination. Other ways of diagnosing PCOS are blood tests and Ultrasound.

Treatment

Treatment for PCOS mainly focuses on the accompanying health problems like hair growth, obesity, diabetes, Acne or infertility. With proper treatment, PCOS can be managed and symptoms can be relieved.