Understanding Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Written by Sai Koppada
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, also known as PCOS is a hormonal disorder that occurs in those from ages 12-55. In recent years the amount of women diagnosed with this condition has increased significantly, yet the exact reason for this is unclear. In most cases, the rise is attributed to more people adopting sedentary lifestyles, increased cases of obesity, poor diet, genetic factors, and other environmental factors. With the disorder being more prevalent, it is essential to understand more about this condition to diagnose it in its early stages and get access to treatment faster.
What Is It?
POCS is a condition in which there is an imbalance of reproductive hormones in the body. This imbalance causes the individual to experience irregular periods and develop cysts along their ovaries. In most cases, the imbalance occurs with a hormone called androgen.
Cause and Diagnosis
Though the exact cause of this condition is unknown, a variety of factors can increase an individual's chances of having PCOS. Some of these factors include obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, insulin resistance, certain genetic factors, and a few environmental factors. When a person is obese or leads a sedentary lifestyle it can increase the risk of developing hormonal imbalance and can cause an individual to develop PCOS. Additionally, if a person is already insulin resistant, then it increases their chances of developing PCOS because high levels of insulin can lead to increased androgen production. Genetics is another factor that increases the risk of developing this condition.
The most common ways to diagnose this condition are by first looking at the individual's symptoms and menstrual cycles and determining if there are any abnormalities present, followed by a physical exam to check for any physical abnormalities. After the findings from these tests are evaluated, the individual might need a pelvic exam to check for any abnormal growths, a blood test to measure hormone levels, or an ultrasound to make sure that the ovaries don't have any cysts or abnormal growth.
Symptoms
The symptoms associated with PCOS generally start when the individual goes through their first menstrual cycle, however, they can also occur later on. Some of the symptoms of those who have PCOS are irregular periods that are far apart, high levels of androgen, and polycystic ovaries. This can lead to excess weight gain, excess body hair, and sudden skin changes. Generally if an individual experiences at least 2 of these symptoms, then they tested for PCOS. The hormonal imbalance and irregular periods can lead to irregular ovulation and problems with egg release in the body too.
Treatment
There is no known cure for PCOS yet, however, there are many ways to relieve the symptoms and discomfort caused by the condition. Making small lifestyle changes to ensure that you get enough sleep and exercise, as well as maintaining a healthy diet can help reduce the risk of developing PCOS by a significant amount. Certain medications such as Anti-Androgen medication and Birth control pills can be used to reduce acne, reduce excess hair growth, and better regulate periods. Those who have preexisting conditions that make them insulin-resistant can take medication such as Metformin to help lower insulin levels in the body and reduce androgen levels.
Understanding what PCOS is and what symptoms are associated with it can help get accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. By being aware of the condition, especially with rising cases of PCOS, it can help be prepared and limit the pain and discomfort. PCOS affects 6%-12% of women worldwide and 8%-10% of women within the U.S. alone. As the number of cases rises, early awareness and intervention are key to improving outcomes for those affected.
References
Mayo Clinic. “Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) - Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic, 8 Sept. 2022, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pcos/symptoms-causes/syc-20353439.
Written by Sai Koppada from MEDILOQUY