Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders among women of reproductive age. This condition manifests itself in several symptoms that affect menstrual cycle regularity and fertility.
Although this condition can be a cause of concern for many women, understanding it correctly helps manage it effectively and reduce its long-term complications.
What is polycystic ovary syndrome
It is a hormonal disorder that occurs when a woman's body secretes an imbalance of hormones, affecting the function of the ovaries. In this case, eggs may not be released regularly.
Several small cysts form on the ovaries. This imbalance leads to irregular menstrual cycles, difficulty conceiving, and symptoms associated with an increase in certain male hormones in the body.
What are the causes of polycystic ovary syndrome
The exact causes are not yet known, but several factors can contribute to the development of polycystic ovary syndrome:
- Obesity.
- Insulin resistance.
- Lack of physical activity.
- A hormonal imbalance.
- Excess male hormone (androgen).
- A family history of polycystic ovary syndrome.
Symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome
Symptoms vary from woman to woman, and some or all of them may appear.
- Weight gain.
- Fatigue.
- Acne.
- Difficulty getting pregnant.
- Oily skin.
- Mood disturbances.
- Irregular menstrual cycles.
- Severe hair loss.
- Long-term absence of menstrual periods.
- Excessive hair growth on the face, chest, and back.
How is polycystic ovary syndrome diagnosed
Diagnosis is based on asking the patient about symptoms, most notably irregular menstrual cycles or excessive hair growth on the face, chest, and back, followed by observing signs of excess male hormones or obesity.
The doctor then orders blood tests to measure hormone levels such as androgen, FSH, and LH. The patient then undergoes an ultrasound examination of the ovaries to check for the presence of small cysts or ovarian enlargement.
Potential Complications of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Neglecting treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome can lead to:
- Infertility.
- Obesity.
- Difficulty conceiving.
- High blood pressure.
- Enlarged uterine lining.
- High cholesterol.
- Recurrent miscarriages.
- Long-term absence of ovulation.
- Risk of heart disease.
- Psychological disorders such as anxiety and depression.
- Increased risk of endometrial cancer.
- Type 2 diabetes.
What should be done to avoid complications
- Exercise regularly.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Regular follow-up with your doctor.
- Control insulin levels.
- Use medications to regulate your menstrual cycle.
- Cope with stress and fatigue by trying to relax.
- Regularly check your blood sugar, blood pressure, and lipid levels.
Risk factors that increase the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome
- Early puberty.
- Chronic stress.
- Sleep disturbances.
- Lack of physical activity.
- Obesity and overweight.
- Insulin resistance.
Medications for treating polycystic ovary syndrome
Medicinal treatment varies depending on the condition and must be under medical supervision.
- Metformin.
- Ovulation-stimulating medications.
- Androgen-reducing medications.
- Ovulation-stimulating injections.
- Combination birth control pills.
Does polycystic ovary syndrome affect pregnancy and childbirth
Yes, polycystic ovary syndrome significantly affects fertility and the chances of pregnancy, as it makes it difficult for eggs to be released regularly, thus affecting the regularity of the menstrual cycle.
In addition, pregnant women are at risk of early miscarriage, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and high blood pressure.
The Difference Between Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and Ovarian Cysts
There is a significant difference between polycystic ovary syndrome and ovarian cysts. Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal disorder of unknown cause that appears as sacs on the ovaries, while ovarian cysts result from hormonal fluctuations and appear as fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries.
Summary of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal disorder that affects ovulation and the menstrual cycle. It can cause difficulty conceiving, weight gain, acne, and unwanted hair growth.
To control this condition and reduce its complications, early diagnosis, a healthy lifestyle, and appropriate treatment are essential.