An Overview on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a very common condition that happens in 5 to 10% of young women, and it tends to run in families, but it isn't caused by a single gene.
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a very common condition that happens in 5 to 10% of young women. It tends to run in families, but it isn't caused by a single gene. Women with PCOS may have irregular or no periods, infertility, increased hair growth, acne, and sometimes scalp hair loss. Being overweight is common but it isn't caused by the PCOS. The name is a bit of a problem. Some women whose ovaries look as if they have a lot of cysts have normal periods and hormones, and some women whose hormones suggest they have PCOS have normal-looking ovaries. When there are cysts, they're small (less than 1 cm) and don't cause pain. Causes of PCOS We don't fully understand what causes PCOS, but it seems to involve several things. The pituitary gland, a small gland at the base of the brain that controls many of our hormones, seems to make the ovaries work too hard. The ovaries then make too many androgens (male-type hormones). These hormones interfere with the woman's periods and can give her acne and make her grow more body hair. Some women also lose hair from their scalp (alopecia). The ovaries tend to be bigger than normal and have small cysts around the outside that are filled with fluid. Many women with PCOS are overweight, but slim women also get it. Some women with PCOS also have a problem known as insulin resistance. Insulin is a hormone that controls the level of sugar in our blood. Insulin resistance means the body isn't very sensitive to insulin. It has to make much more to keep the blood sugar normal. This high level of insulin makes the ovaries make more of the male-type hormones. So women with PCOS may have a higher risk of diabetes and heart disease later in life, especially if they're overweight. If you have problems with hair growth (hirsutism), irregular periods or infertility, your doctor may suggest some tests. These could include blood tests to look for: ▪ too many male hormones and pituitary gland hormones ▪ lipids (cholesterol and other blood fats) and glucose levels. Your doctor might also suggest you have an ultrasound examination of your ovaries. Treatments for PCOS You can be treated for excessive hair growth and acne, or infertility, but you can't be treated for both at the same time. So you will need to decide which is most important for you.