Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a hormonal disorder characterized by the appearance of many small cysts on the outer edge of the ovaries. Patients' ovaries may also appear enlarged. This disorder is the most common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age.
Causes of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
The normal reproductive cycle is regulated through changes in the levels of hormones produced in the brain and ovaries. The hormones known as follicle stimulating hormone and lutenizing hormone control the growth and release of eggs in the ovaries. The ovaries produce estrogen and progesterone. The ovaries also produce male hormones known as androgens In women with polycystic ovarian syndrome the ovaries may make too much androgens. This can lead to infertility. The cause of polycystic ovarian syndrome is unknown but some factors that play a role are known. They are:
- excess insulin
- low grad inflammation
- genetics
- problems in fetal development
Symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
The onset of symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome usually begins soon after a young woman begins her menstrual cycle. Some patients develop the problem during their reproductive years. The symptoms may vary from person to person in type and how severe the symptoms are. Some common symptoms include the following:
- menstrual abnormality
- elevated androgen levels, which manifests in a variety of ways
- polycystic ovaries
Conditions Related to PCOS
Conditions that may exist along side polycystic ovarian syndrome include:
- infertility
- obesity
- prediabetes
- type 2 diabetes
- darkened, velvety skin which indicates insulin resistance
Complications of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
The following conditions are closely linked to polycystic ovarian system:
- type 2 diabetes
- high blood pressure
- elevated levels of C-reactive proteins
- metabolic syndrome
- abnormal uterine bleeding
- nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
- endometrial cancer
- gestational diabetes
Treatment of PCOS
The treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome is largely focused on the concerns of the patient. Treatments may include the following options:
- regular checkups
- lifestyle changes
- regulation of the menstrual cycle
- medications used to induce ovulating
- surgical procedures
Home Remedies and Lifestyle
One way to help manage insulin resistance for many women with polycystic ovarian syndrome may be a diet low in glycemic carbohydrates and animal fats. Scientists are unsure whether this is is an appropriate alternative to help manage insulin resistance which many polycystic ovarian syndrome sufferers have to battle and may help to maintain a healthy weight as well.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome can be managed with the patient and doctor working closely together. The condition can be stressful and for some heart breaking due to complications. Hopefully this article help give a better understanding of the condition.
Source:
MayoClinic.com, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (accessed March 11,2010)
Angela Pichon - Angela Pichon currently lives outside Denver, Colorado. She is a stay-at-home mom to a baby girl and is expecting again. She is also very ...
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