Or do you just have excessive acne? Why am I asking these random questions? My guess is, you're confused.
Ever heard the term, "PCOS?"
No? Yes? Maybe? Hahaha. PCOS is an acronym for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Sounds different, ugh? Bingo! I've captured your interest.
Now that we've gotten here, I'm sure you want to know all about it and I'm happy to tell. Grins
What is PCOS?
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal imbalance caused by the ovaries (the organ that produces and releases eggs) creating excess male hormones called Androgens.
If you have PCOS, it simply means your ovaries produce unusually high levels of Androgens.
As a result of this, people diagnosed with PCOS often have irregular or missed periods, excess acne, unpredictable or no ovulation at all, etc, and this (anovulation) may cause small cysts (fluid-filled sacs) to develop on the ovaries.
What Causes PCOS?
I know I've already mentioned earlier that excess release of the male hormones (Androgens) is a major cause of PCOS. But how?
Experts have confirmed through several studies that high levels of androgen also called "Male hormones" prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs — that is the process known as Ovulation. Lack of ovulation leads to irregular menstrual cycles and it may also cause small fluid-filled sacs to develop in the ovaries. Furthermore, high androgen levels can also cause excess acne and hair growth in women.
Another major factor that causes PCOS is Insulin resistance (“IR”). Insulin is the hormone that helps regulate the sugar level in the blood. With IR, the body cells don't respond normally to insulin and this causes the sugar levels in the blood to rise abnormally. Because glucose or sugar cannot be absorbed easily by the cells, glucose builds up in the blood. This could eventually lead to Type 2 Diabetes if not immediately treated.
Since the body no longer responds normally to insulin, it builds up in the body and triggers higher androgen levels which causes PCOS.
Additionally, obesity (being overweight) can also increase insulin levels and make PCOS symptoms worse.
Lastly, people with PCOS tend to have chronic low-grade inflammation and it can be exacerbated by an unhealthy lifestyle that includes smoking, poor dietary, alcohol consumption, sedentary behaviour, stress and weight gain.
The most common symptoms of PCOS are:
• Irregular or missed periods.
• Abnormal hair growth.
• Excess acne.
• Obesity.
• Infertility.
• Loss of hair.
• Cysts.
Etcetera.
- Infertility or Subfertility.
- Diabetes.
- Lipid abnormalities.
- Cardiovascular risks.
- Obstructive sleep apnea.
- Endometrial cancer.
However, not all women diagnosed with PCOS will develop these conditions but they are possible long-term health risks associated with PCOS.
How is PCOS treated?
According to my research, PCOS can be treated based on symptoms, medical history and other health conditions. Treatment can include medication, lifestyle changes or a combination of both. Best consult a physician.
It is also important to note that a person can only be properly diagnosed with PCOS when a physician tests her physically through the use of an ultrasound scan, a pelvic exam, and blood tests. Also, a physician can ask about your medical history, family medical history and symptoms when making a diagnosis.
Sources:
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