Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects around 10% of women of reproductive age. It is a complex condition that will cause a variety of symptoms, ranging from irregular periods and acne, to infertility and increased danger of other medical conditions. While symptoms can vary greatly from person to person, there are common signs that can help you see whether you could have PCOS.

Understanding what PCOS is, how it is diagnosed, in addition to symptoms associated with it can help you determine if you may well be in danger and seek out medical advice.

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?

PCOS is a hormonal disorder this is certainly due to an imbalance of reproductive hormones. It takes place when the ovaries produce too much androgens, or male hormones, which disrupt the conventional functioning associated with ovaries. The ovaries then become distended and develop numerous cysts, ultimately causing the name "polycystic ovary syndrome".

PCOS is a complex disorder, together with cause continues to be unknown. It is thought to be linked to genetic factors, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

How Is PCOS Diagnosed?

PCOS is usually diagnosed through a combination of a physical exam, blood tests, and an ultrasound. The physical exam will often include a pelvic exam and assessment of other medical history.

A physician may also order a blood test to measure hormone levels, such as for instance testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and prolactin. These hormones are essential to know in the context of PCOS as they can indicate an imbalance within the reproductive hormones.

An ultrasound may also be used to find cysts in the ovaries. It will help confirm the diagnosis of PCOS.

Which are the Symptoms of PCOS?

The symptoms of PCOS can vary from individual to individual, but you can find common signs which will help you determine if you might be at an increased risk.

Irregular periods are one of the most common apparent symptoms of PCOS. Women with PCOS often have periods which are irregular, infrequent, or completely absent. Other menstrual observable symptoms include heavy or prolonged bleeding and abnormal vaginal discharge.

PCOS can also cause acne or any other skin conditions. It can also result in excessive hair growth from the face and body, referred to as hirsutism.

Weight gain is yet another common symptom of PCOS. Women with PCOS often put on pounds quickly and find it difficult to lose it, due to the hormonal imbalance.

Infertility can also be a common manifestation of PCOS. Women with PCOS usually have difficulty getting pregnant due to the disruption of ovulation caused by the hormone imbalance.

Women with PCOS could also experience mood changes, depression, anxiety, and fatigue.

It is important to observe that not totally all women with PCOS will experience most of these symptoms. Some can experience a couple of, although some may experience many.

Seeking Medical Advice

If you believe maybe you are at an increased risk for PCOS, it is vital to seek medical advice. A doctor is able to do a physical exam, order blood tests and an ultrasound, and then make a diagnosis.

When you do have PCOS, your medical professional will be able to develop a treatment solution to aid manage your symptoms and minimize your threat of other health conditions. Treatment may include change in lifestyle, such as a wholesome diet and regular exercise, medications to simply help regulate hormones, and female fertility treatments to support infertility.

Conclusion

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects around 10% of women of reproductive age. It is a complex condition that can cause a variety of symptoms, ranging from irregular periods and acne, to infertility and increased chance of other health conditions. While symptoms can vary greatly from individual to individual, there are some common signs that can help you determine if you might have PCOS. If you think you may well be at an increased risk for PCOS, you should seek medical advice in order for a diagnosis may be made and a treatment plan developed.