Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS),also known as Stein Levnethal Syndrome or hyperandrogenic anovulation (HA), is the most common hormonal disorder in females and leads to an array of gynecological problems such as irregular periods. PCOS can even interfere with your chances of getting pregnant. It is one of the alarming causes of infertility in females across the globe.
Women affected with PCOS generally grow small cysts on their ovaries; thus the name. By themselves, these cysts are harmless, but they do cause the hormones to behave strangely, and can even affect the way you look.
The body growth and energy functions are triggered by the behavior of hormones, which act as chemical messengers that are secreted directly into the blood, which further carries them to organs and tissues of the body to exert their functions. Every aspect of bodily function is a response to hormones, and PCOS causes these hormones to go out of balance. One change triggers another and so on. The reasons for this disbalancing, however, are not yet completely understood. Two major hormone changes due to PCOS are as follows:
The exact cause of PCOS is still unknown; however it is seen to run in families. Genetics from either of the parent’s side can cause PCOS.
PCOS occurs due to hormonal imbalance in your ovaries and brain. The condition is usually seen when the level of LH (luteinizing hormone) of the pituitary or the insulin of pancreas is too high. Their high level is responsible for increased production of androgen or male hormone in the ovary.
The most frequent symptoms of PCOS are as under:
Medically speaking PCOS is a condition where the level of female sex hormones progesterone and estrogen is deranged and this causes the formation of ovarian cysts (which are actually benign masses in ovaries).
A thorough review of your medical history and symptoms is helpful in making the diagnosis as no definitive tests are available for PCOS.
The treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome is focused on controlling the symptoms and avoiding the appearance of complications.
In obese women, healthy balanced diet and daily exercise are helpful in regulating your menstrual problems and falling glucose levels.
Birth control pills can be advised to women who do not want to become pregnant. This is effective in curing acne and regulation of deranged periods.
Birth control drugs are given as they can:
However it is not a permanent treatment.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome can disturb a woman’s menstrual cycle, cardiac functioning, general appearance and fertility. Besides this PCOS is a pre-disposing factor for health ailments like diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, etc.
The most important point to keep in mind is to immediately consult your doctor if you notice any of the above listed symptoms.
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