What is PCOS?
Around 1 in 10 women of childbearing age are affected by a condition called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a common health problem caused by a hormonal imbalance that may affect overall health and appearance. It can cause problems with your periods and with fertility. It can also cause other symptoms such as weight gain, acne, hair growth on the face or body. Over time it can lead to serious health problems.
Most people with PCOS grow small cysts on their ovaries. This is why it’s called polycystic ovary syndrome.
What causes PCOS?
The exact cause of PCOS is not known, but experts think that several factors play a role. Studies have shown that PCOS can be genetic, or it may be related to other factors including ;naturally high levels of androgens or insulin. Higher than normal levels of androgens – sometimes called “male’ hormones”– can affect the ovaries and prevent them from releasing an egg during each menstrual cycle and can cause hair growth and acne. Higher than normal levels of insulin can lead to insulin resistance and may cause PCOS because it can impair ovulation and cause the ovaries to produce excess testosterone.
Who does PCOS affect?
PCOS can affect anyone who can become pregnant from the time that they can conceive, i.e. the time between their first period and menopause.
What are the signs and symptoms of PCOS?
The symptoms of PCOS vary from person to person – some might experience none or only one of these symptoms, and others might suffer with more and range from mild to extreme. It’s always important to remember that everyone is unique and will experience things differently and there are lots of options of ways to successfully manage your PCOS.
Common symptoms of PCOS include irregular periods or loss of periods, difficulty getting pregnant, hair growth (hirsutism) – usually on the face, chest or back – obesity, weight gain or a change in weight, severe acne or oily skin, patches of thickened skin – called acanthosis nigricans, and multiple small fluid-filled sacs in the ovaries.
PCOS can potentially influence your overall health, too, and can be linked to conditions such as type 2 diabetes (due to insulin resistance), depression, high blood pressure and cholesterol.
Can PCOS affect fertility?
In short, yes. PCOS can influence your fertility, but many people with PCOS go on to have healthy pregnancies with the right support. In fact, PCOS is one of the most common – and treatable - causes of infertility. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), lifestyle changes, ovulations induction medications, and other therapies can significantly improve chances of becoming pregnant. If you become pregnant with PCOS, your healthcare provider will monitor you closely because PCOS may increase the risk of conditions like gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and preeclampsia. With early prenatal care and ongoing support, these risks can be managed effectively to support a healthy pregnancy.
PCOS treatment
Although it can’t be cured, PCOS is manageable, and treatment options can be tailored to your goals and symptoms. Lifestyle factors like regular exercise, a balanced diet, and weight control may have a positive effect on PCOS symptoms. If you are looking for help with fertility, you might be offered a medication called letrozole which helps with more consistent ovulation. Metformin may be used to support insulin sensitivity and encourage monthly periods.
Although it cannot be cured, there are many ways of potentially easing some of the symptoms of PCOS and hopefully letting those who suffer with PCOS live comfortably with the condition. Again, it’s important to note here that everybody is different, and what works for one person might not work for another.
If you have concerns about your PCOS symptoms, are worried about whether you might have PCOS or are looking into treatment options, we recommend speaking to your healthcare provider.
References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2776334/
https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pcos/conditioninfo/symptoms
