PCOS - Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) affects 1 in 10 women of childbearing age. It is caused by an imbalance of the reproductive hormones. The imbalance leads to problems within the ovaries. The eggs produced by the ovaries are not released at the appropriate time during the menstrual cycle, or they do not develop as they should. PCOS can cause irregular or missed periods. Irregular periods can lead to ovarian cysts or infertility.
What causes PCOS?
The exact cause of PCOS is unknown. The imbalance of hormones, specifically androgens, progesterone, and insulin, lead to PCOS.
Androgens and progesterone: All women make both androgens (“male hormones”) and progesterone (one of the “female hormones”). Women who have PCOS have higher than normal levels of androgens and less than normal levels of progesterone.
Insulin: The food we consume is converted into glucose. Insulin allows for glucose to be absorbed and used as energy. Women who have PCOS do not respond to insulin normally and may develop insulin resistance. As a result, insulin levels may increase leading to an increased amount of androgens in the body.
What are the symptoms of PCOS?
After puberty begins, symptoms can start to show. Symptoms are usually attributed to other causes and PCOS may go undiagnosed for some time. Women who have PCOS typically have missed or fewer periods. Some women’s cycles could either be more/less than 28 days. Some women may not have menstrual periods at all. Here are some other common symptoms:
Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
Cysts on the ovaries
Hirsutism: unwanted excess hair on the body
Acne: may affect chest, back and face
Sleep problems such as sleep apnea, trouble sleeping or insomnia
Thinning hair on the head
Darkening of the skin around the neck, groin or under the breasts
Skin tags in the armpits or neck area
Mood changes
Since there is no single test to diagnosis PCOS, you doctor may need to look into your family's medical history and perform a physical exam to rule out other causes. Additionally, there are a few other tests that help to diagnose PCOS such as, pelvic exam, pelvic ultrasound (sonogram) and a blood test.
Is there a cure for PCOS?
There is no known cure, however there are treatments to help improve symptoms:
Hormonal birth control can help to:
Regulate menstrual cycle
Lower risk for endometrial cancer
Help to improve acne and reduce unwanted body hair
Metformin: This medication is often used to treat Type 2 Diabetes, however it has been shown that metformin, when taken by those who have PCOS, can help to lower blood sugar, insulin and androgen levels.
Anti-androgen medicines: these help to reduce the amount of unwanted body hair as well reduce the thinning of scalp hair.
Other ways to improve symptoms:
Losing body weight of 5-10% can improve sensitivity to insulin which could decrease the amount of androgens in the body. Overall, maintaining healthy eating habits and a good exercise routine may help to regulate hormones and lower blood glucose levels.
Talk to your doctor if you have or think you may have polycystic ovarian syndrome to find out what options work best for you.
References:
http://www.pcosaa.org/
https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/polycystic-ovary-syndrome