Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is a gynecological condition where there is either an excess amount of androgens produced or high levels of insulin. These hormones can oftentimes cause cysts on ovaries causing ovulation to not occur. Ovulation is an event in the menstrual cycle where the ovary releases the egg causing fertility. PCOS often affects between 5-10% of women between the ages of 15-44, happening anytime after puberty in women. Symptoms include irregular menstrual cycles, excessive hair growth, acne, thinning hair, skin tags, skin darkening, and weight gain (Office on Women’s Health). The cause of this condition is unknown but experts often notice hereditary patterns. Due to the irregular ovulation and menstruation, women with PCOS can often have problems with fertility and other major health problems such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart and blood vessel problems, and uterine cancer (Johns Hopkins Medicine). Treatment is oftentimes medication such as birth control, diabetes medication, or medication to treat any of the other symptoms- such as reducing acne. For women who are planning to become pregnant, their treatment may include medications that cause ovulation. PCOS can be diagnosed by ultrasounds and blood tests. Ultrasounds will check to see if the ovaries have any cysts while blood tests will check for any irregular levels of hormones such as androgens (Johns Hopkins Medicine). With polycystic ovary syndrome, there can be irregularities in levels of testosterone, estrogen, and luteinising hormone as all of these can affect ovulation. In addition, healthcare professionals take age into account as puberty and menopause can cause irregular menstruation as well.
PCOS is a leading cause of infertility in women and about 70% of women remain undiagnosed worldwide (World Health Organization). Therefore, there is a lot more testing being conducted in order to discover new ways to treat PCOS. There is testing about the relationship between genetics and PCOS, environmental exposure and PCOS, as well as obesity and PCOS.
By Devangi Rathi