Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is common among women who are of reproductive age. This hormonal disorder doesn’t have a known cause. Early detection can reduce the risk of complications like heart disease or type 2 diabetes.

What Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?

This condition is a hormonal imbalance that affects the ovaries. Women with PCOS will produce an egg during her normal menstrual cycle. However, the condition may cause the egg to incorrectly develop or may prevent it from being released during ovulation. It can cause female infertility as well as the development of cysts.

Symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

The symptoms of PCOS are focused around the menstrual period. It usually appears during a woman’s first period but can also show up later in life after significant weight gain. Common signs of PCOS include:

• Excessive Androgen Production – An increase in male hormone production can cause excess body and facial hair growth, severe acne, and male-pattern baldness.
• Irregular Periods – PCOS can cause irregular periods that can be prolonged or infrequent.
• Polycystic Ovaries – PCOS can cause enlarged ovaries with follicles that surround eggs.

Treating Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

It is important to get the advice of an OB/GYN if you notice changes in your menstrual cycle or other symptoms. Only a professional can provide an accurate diagnosis. A lifestyle change with a healthy diet and exercise may be recommended. You may also be prescribed medications like birth control pills or progestin therapy.

If you have questions about polycystic ovary syndrome or other reproduction conditions, let us know. Contact Women’s Health today to schedule a gynecological appointment.

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Polycystic ovary syndrome, also known as PCOS, is a common condition that affects women who are at reproductive age. It is a hormonal disorder that has no known cause. PCOS causes ovaries to produce irregular eggs or may prevent them from releasing eggs during ovulation.

Possible PCOS Causes

While the cause of polycystic ovary syndrome is not known, there are some conditions that could play a role.

• Low-grade Inflammation – Studies have shown that women diagnosed with PCOS also have low-grade inflammation that stimulates ovaries, causing them to produce androgens.
• Excessive Androgens – Excessive androgens can cause acne, hirsutism and also lead to blood vessel and heart problems.
• Hereditary Factors – Some genes have shown a link to PCOS.
• Excessive Insulin – Excessive insulin can cause increased production of androgens which affects ovulation.

Symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Patients may notice PCOS symptoms appearing around their first period or later in life, especially in response to a significant weight gain. If you notice two or more of the following, you may have PCOS:

• Irregular periods including prolonged or infrequent menstrual cycles
• Elevated male hormone levels that cause excessive body and facial hair, male-pattern baldness, or severe acne
• Enlarged ovaries that do not function properly

How to Treat PCOS

There is no single cure for polycystic ovary syndrome. You should talk to your doctor to discuss treatment options. It is advised to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen.

A prescription cream may be available to slow the rate of hair growth. Hormonal birth control, Metformin, and anti-androgen medications may also be recommended. If you are suffering from the signs of PCOS, contact Women’s Health and Menopause Center right away to schedule an appointment.

The post Polycystic Ovary Syndrome – Symptoms and Causes appeared first on Women's Health and Menopause Center.