10 Fast Facts About Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS

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ByAgkidzone Staff

Updated: Oct 25, 2024

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, commonly known as PCOS, is a prevalent hormonal disorder affecting numerous women worldwide. It occurs when there's an imbalance in hormone production, leading to a variety of symptoms that signal the onset of PCOS. These hormonal imbalances can influence everything from menstrual cycle regularity to body hair growth patterns and skin quality. In mild cases, PCOS might cause slight discomfort, but in more severe instances, it can become moderately debilitating. The following is a list of essential facts about PCOS to help you gain a deeper understanding of this health condition.

Prevalence of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

PCOS is currently the most widespread endocrine disorder globally, affecting one in ten women during their reproductive years. Research suggests that specific genetic factors may contribute to the development of PCOS. While it's not conclusively proven to be hereditary, it often runs in families. You may also be more at risk if you have Type 1, Type 2, or gestational diabetes. Women over thirty and past puberty are most commonly affected, and the likelihood of developing PCOS decreases with age. Additionally, individuals with low-grade white blood cell inflammation are at a higher risk for this syndrome.

A Tricky Diagnosis

Diagnosing PCOS can be quite challenging because it's considered an illness of exclusion. People with the syndrome experience an overproduction of androgen hormones. Doctors must rule out other conditions before confirming a PCOS diagnosis. Physicians utilize several criteria when assessing for PCOS. Irregular periods are often the first noticeable sign, but this symptom alone isn't enough for a definitive diagnosis. Doctors may perform an ultrasound to check for fluid-filled sacs, known as follicles, surrounding the eggs in your ovaries. Additionally, an excess of androgen hormones, typically found in low levels in women, is a key diagnostic criterion in PCOS.

Early Diagnosis

Early detection of PCOS is crucial to reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications. It's important to contact your doctor if you experience unexplained menstrual symptoms. Signs like infrequent menstrual cycles, irregular vaginal bleeding, excessive thirst, frequent urination, mood swings, unwanted hair growth, or unexplained weight gain should prompt a medical consultation. While these symptoms can be caused by various conditions, experiencing multiple symptoms warrants a visit to a healthcare professional as soon as possible. PCOS is a risk factor for premenopausal endometrial cancer and atypical endometrial hyperplasia, both of which can impact a woman's fertility. Early diagnosis helps prevent irreversible damage to the reproductive organs.

Infertility

PCOS occurs when there's a hormonal imbalance in the ovaries, leading to excessive production of androgen hormones. This imbalance prevents the ovaries from releasing eggs regularly, causing irregular or missed menstrual cycles. As a result, eggs don't mature fully, and the follicles remain attached to the ovary as fluid-filled sacs. The body also produces less progesterone, a hormone essential for healthy ovulation. This hormonal shortage slows down ovulation, resulting in infrequent or absent menstrual cycles. In more extreme cases, ovulation may stop entirely, leading to infertility. Women with PCOS have a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or experiencing miscarriages. Babies born to mothers with PCOS may be prone to macrosomia, a condition where the baby is larger than average.

Complications of PCOS

You might be surprised to learn that untreated PCOS can lead to heart problems. High insulin levels in the body, common in PCOS, can cause a variety of conditions, including heart disease. PCOS can also lead to sleep apnea, depression, anxiety, and diabetes. Additionally, it may result in metabolic syndrome and cholesterol imbalances. It's important to understand the potential complications when this syndrome is left untreated. Often, general practitioners may not be fully equipped to diagnose PCOS properly. Endocrinologists, who specialize in hormone-related conditions, have a deeper understanding of the disease's complex nature and can offer comprehensive treatment options.

Acne, Hirsutism, and Weight Gain

An imbalance of androgen hormones in women with PCOS often leads to unwanted hair growth, a condition known as hirsutism. Excess hair may grow on the back, buttocks, chest, and face. There are several methods to remove unwanted hair, from laser treatments to regular shaving. Many women with PCOS also struggle with oily skin, acne, weight gain, and hair loss from the scalp. The condition can cause irregular periods or a complete absence of menstruation. PCOS also increases the chances of developing high cholesterol and Type 2 diabetes later in life.

Managing PCOS

Managing PCOS is often best achieved through weight loss, a healthy diet, and an active exercise routine. Ironically, PCOS can interfere with the production of ghrelin and leptin—chemicals that signal to your brain when you're full—making it challenging to control hunger. However, losing just five percent of your body weight can alleviate many PCOS symptoms. Medications may also help reduce excessive hair growth, regulate periods, and address fertility issues. In severe cases, a simple surgical procedure called laparoscopic ovarian drilling may be performed. This involves using laser heat to destroy the follicles surrounding the eggs, promoting regular ovulation.

Healthy Lifestyle

Weight gain is a common issue with PCOS, so adopting a balanced diet can help satisfy hunger and maintain a healthy weight. Regular exercise can lower your risk of cardiovascular complications. Whether you choose low-impact activities or more adrenaline-packed routines, the key is to stay active. Studies show that setting modest goals increases the likelihood of achieving them. Finding a physical activity you genuinely enjoy can help you establish a sustainable, healthy habit for life.

Quit Smoking

Research indicates that women who smoke have higher levels of androgen hormones, which are responsible for many physical symptoms of PCOS, including excessive hair growth and acne. Androgens also contribute to weight gain. While quitting smoking won't eliminate all symptoms, it can reduce their severity and frequency. Additionally, quitting lowers your risk of cardiovascular complications and certain cancers associated with PCOS. Smoking has been linked to fertility problems, which may exacerbate PCOS symptoms.

Coping with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

There are numerous support groups available, both online and in-person, for women dealing with PCOS. Many women with the condition experience depression and anxiety, and dedicated support networks and helplines can provide assistance. Check with your doctor to find a support group near you—remember, you're not fighting this battle alone. Practices like meditation and yoga may also help reduce the severity of depression and anxiety. Meditation has been shown to offer multiple benefits in coping with pain, sadness, and stress.