PCOS

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects women during their reproductive years. An estimated 5-10% of women have PCOS, making it one of the most prevalent hormonal conditions among women of reproductive age.

PCOS is characterized by:

• Irregular or absent menstrual cycles - Women with PCOS often have infrequent, irregular, or prolonged menstrual periods. Some women stop having menstrual periods altogether.


• Excess androgen levels - Women with PCOS tend to have higher levels of androgens, or "male" hormones. This can cause symptoms like excess facial and body hair growth, scalp hair loss, and acne.


• Polycystic ovaries - PCOS causes the ovaries to become enlarged and contain numerous small fluid-filled sacs referred to as cysts.

While the exact cause is unknown, research suggests that genetics and insulin resistance play a role in the development of PCOS. The syndrome also has strong links to obesity.

Common PCOS Symptoms

Symptoms associated with PCOS often start around the time of the first menstrual period during puberty. Sometimes PCOS develops later during the reproductive years, following substantial weight gain.

Common PCOS signs and symptoms include:

• Irregular periods: Sporadic, absent, heavy, or prolonged menstrual periods


• Infertility: Due to irregular ovulation


• Hirsutism: Excessive body hair growth on the face, chest, abdomen, and back


• Weight gain: Tendency to carry excess weight, especially around the waist


• Acanthosis nigricans: Dark, velvety skin patches in the folds and creases of the body


• Skin tags: Excess flaps of skin in the armpits or neck area


• Pelvic pain: Painful menstrual periods and heaviness or bloating in the lower abdomen

Getting Diagnosed

If you suspect you may have PCOS based on your symptoms, make an appointment to see your healthcare provider. They can run tests to check for elevated androgen levels and irregular ovulation associated with PCOS. An ultrasound of your ovaries can also reveal the classic "polycystic" ovarian morphology seen in PCOS.

Early diagnosis and treatment of PCOS is important for regulating the menstrual cycle and managing symptoms like excess hair growth and acne. Lifestyle changes combined with medications can help regulate hormones and reduce the risk of long-term complications like diabetes, heart disease and infertility.