29/02/2024
What Is PCOS?
Polycystic O***y Syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition that affects how a woman’s ovaries work. It involves three main features:
1) Irregular Periods: Your ovaries do not regularly release eggs (ovulation).
2) Excess Androgen: High levels of “male” hormones in your body, which may cause physical signs such as excess facial or body hair.
3) Polycystic Ovaries: Your ovaries become enlarged and contain many fluid-filled sacs (follicles) that surround the eggs. Despite the name, you do not actually have cysts if you have PCOS.
Symptoms of PCOS
Signs and symptoms of PCOS usually become apparent during your late teens or early 20s. They can include:
- Irregular or Absent Periods: Difficulty getting pregnant due to irregular ovulation or no ovulation.
- Excessive Hair Growth (Hirsutism): Usually on the face, chest, back, or buttocks.
- Weight Gain
- Thinning Hair and Hair Loss from the Head
- Oily Skin or Acne
Causes of PCOS
The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but it often runs in families. It’s related to abnormal hormone levels in the body, including high levels of insulin. Insulin is a hormone that controls sugar levels in the body. Many women with PCOS are resistant to the action of insulin in their body and produce higher levels of insulin to overcome this. This contributes to the increased production and activity of hormones like testosterone. Being overweight or obese also increases the amount of insulin your body produces.
Treatment Options
Treatment options vary, depending on the symptoms someone is experiencing. While there is no cure for PCOS, its symptoms can often be managed through lifestyle changes and/or medications:
- Lifestyle Changes: If you’re overweight, losing weight and eating a healthy, balanced diet can improve symptoms.
- Medications: Available to treat symptoms such as excessive hair growth, irregular periods and fertility problems.
It is always best to consult your GP if you suspect you have PCOS or experience any related symptoms.
🖥 An ultrasound scan to identify polycystic ovaries and help in the diagnosis of PCOS (polycystic o***y syndrome) can be booked at www.dragonultrasound.co.uk
