What is PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)?
Who can get PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder causing enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges and also PCOS is a condition in which the ovaries produce an unusual amount of androgens, that are typically present in women in lesser amounts.
With PCOS, many small sacs of fluid develop along the outer edge of the ovary and these are called cysts. The small fluid-filled cysts contain immature eggs and these are called follicles and follicles fail to often release eggs.
Early identification and treatment along with weight loss may lower the risk of long-term difficulty and helps to manage. The name polycystic ovary syndrome defines the numerous small cysts (fluid-filled sacs) that form in the ovaries in body and form complication. It causes several problems in the body such as irregular menstrual periods, excess hair growth, acne and infertility.
A woman can acquire PCOS any time after puberty and PCOS can grow in 20s or 30s when they are trying to become pregnant. Person may have a higher chance of getting PCOS if person is overweight or have obesity, or if other people in family have PCOS.
Causes
The particular cause of PCOS is not clear. But, connections with family history and genetics; hormones that are increased during growth in the womb before birth; and lifestyle or environment. Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance and the body can’t use insulin properly. Insulin levels accumulate in the body and may increase in level of androgen in the body. Obesity can also increase level of insulin and make PCOS signs worse.
PCOS may also run in families and Women with PCOS are 50% more likely to have an instant female relative – mother, aunt, sister or daughter – with PCOS. It’s common to have PCOS in family for sisters or a mother and daughter. In women with PCOS frequently have increased levels of inflammation in their body. Being overweight can also contribute to inflammation in body.
Symptoms
Irregular periods: Abnormal menstruation comprises missing periods or not having a period at all. It may also involve excessive bleeding during period.
Abnormal hair growth: Extra facial hair and heavy hair growth on the arms, chest and abdomen and it is also called hirsutism.
Acne: PCOS may origin acne, especially back, chest, and on the face.
Obesity: About 80% of women with PCOS are bulky or have obesity.
Cysts: Many women with PCOS have small pockets of fluid in their ovaries and generate cysts.
Thinning hair on the head and Hair loss related to PCOS may increase in middle age.
Infertility: PCOS is the most common reason of female infertility. Decreased frequency or absence of ovulation can result in not being able to conceive.
Headaches: Hormonal changes prompt headaches.
Pelvic pain: Pelvic pain may happen with periods and along with heavy bleeding.
