PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a medical condition that affects 1 in every 10 childbearing women. Females with this condition often have issues with metabolism and hormone imbalance problems that can also affect their appearance and health. It is a very common problem faced by many females and therefore it is crucial to understand in-depth knowledge about what is PCOS, PCOS symptoms, and its treatment available to manage the condition on time. In this article, we learn more about PCOS symptoms and treatment options.
What is PCOS?
PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a set of symptoms that happen because of a problem with female hormones. This affects the ovaries which produce and release eggs and can impact other body parts. PCOS is very common in childbearing-age females. But it can be a severe issue if left untreated. PCOS happens when the body is unable to make enough hormones for ovulation. When it doesn’t happen, small cysts develop in the ovaries. These cysts make androgens, a kind of male hormone. PCOS can result in high levels of this hormone and affects the women’s menstrual cycle. This can lead to a lot of PCOS symptoms. Let’s understand PCOS symptoms and treatment in the below sections.
Symptoms of PCOS Problem in Females
Listed below are the common PCOS signs and symptoms in females:
- Increased risk for gestational diabetes during pregnancy
- Excessive facial or body hair
- Acne
- Hair loss
- Obesity
- Insulin resistance
- High cholesterol
- Fertility issues
The PCOS symptoms vary, with some being very mild, which can even go unnoticed, while others have severe PCOS signs and symptoms that can affect their fertility and quality of life.
Signs of PCOS generally reduce after menopause when ovaries do not function, and androgen is not produced. PCOS usually starts around puberty, but you may see PCOS symptoms only after early adulthood.
Main Causes of PCOS in Females
As NCBI quoted, the exact cause of PCOS is not known, however, it has been showed that environmental and genetic factors may contribute a crucial role in PCOS causes:
- It may happen that the women who have PCOS, their bodies can’t use insulin well due to insulin resistance. In this case the level of insulin gets elevated which could further result in boosting the androgen production, making ovulation hard.
- Obesity can also be one of the causes of PCOS, because it also triggers insulin levels and makes the symptoms of PCOS worse.
- Based on a few studies, genetics and family history are also associated with this condition.
- Also increased levels of androgen can make the condition adverse and can also harm the women’s eggs by leading them not to be fully developed
Symptoms of Pregnancy with PCOS
Most females get to know of PCOS when they try and conceive but are unable to do so. Doctors perform blood tests to figure out the root cause of which PCOS may come as a reason. That does not mean they can’t get pregnant. However, they may be at some risk. Symptoms of pregnancy with PCOS are normally associated with Gestational diabetes, a condition which affects pregnant women and causes high blood sugar levels in their bodies. They may also be affected by preeclampsia (a condition that affects pregnant women) marked by high blood pressure and can lead to complications such as early birth. Women with symptoms of pregnancy with PCOS are also more likely to have a miscarriage.
PCOS Diagnosis
There is no single standard test to identify this condition. However, it should be considered in women with common PCOS signs and symptoms. Doctors may conduct a combination of pelvic ultrasound and blood tests for PCOS diagnosis.
How is PCOS Treated?
Doctors will give you medicine to treat PCOS. This condition cannot be cured. However, medicines are given to reduce signs of PCOS and prevent additional health problems. Additionally, doctors can also suggest you go for weight loss as PCOS and weight gain are common issues faced by many females. Weight loss and lifestyle modifications can also help in menstrual cycle regularity and also control and manage other signs of PCOS.
PCOS Symptoms Related Complications
Now that you are aware of PCOS symptoms and treatment, you must know its complications. If you leave PCOS symptoms untreated, you are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease, obesity, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol problems. PCOS and weight gain is one of the major side effects of this condition. In addition, they may also be at risk of developing an increased uterus lining thickness, known as endometrial hyperplasia, uterine cancer.
Conclusion
Having PCOS can be difficult for women. However, the right medications and lifestyle changes, such as eating a balanced diet and weight loss, can help in reducing PCOS symptoms. The important thing is to discuss the symptoms of PCOS problem in females from a young age to fully understand and take necessary precautions, such as not being overweight.
