PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is a common hormonal disorder that affects women during their reproductive years. It is estimated that up to 10% of women of childbearing age have PCOS.
The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but it often involves a hormonal imbalance. Women with PCOS typically have higher levels of androgens ("male hormones"). The three main features of PCOS include:
- Irregular or missed menstrual periods - Women with PCOS often have infrequent, irregular, or prolonged menstrual periods due to lack of ovulation. Some women don't get their period at all.
- Excess androgen levels - Higher than normal levels of male hormones may result in physical signs such as excess facial and body hair (hirsutism), adult acne, and thinning hair.
- Polycystic ovaries - The ovaries develop many small collections of fluid (follicles) that surround the eggs, giving the ovaries a characteristic "string of pearls" appearance on ultrasound.
Some other common signs and symptoms of PCOS include:
- Obesity
- Infertility
- Skin tags
- Skin discoloration
- Pelvic pain
PCOS increases a woman's risk of several medical conditions, including:
- Insulin resistance
- Type 2 diabetes
- Metabolic syndrome
- Endometrial cancer
Diagnosis is typically based on two of the following three criteria:
- Irregular, infrequent, or prolonged periods
- Signs of excess androgen levels (like excess hair growth, adult acne, etc.)
- Polycystic ovaries on an ultrasound
There's no cure for PCOS. But lifestyle changes and medication can help manage symptoms.
Important lifestyle measures include weight loss through diet and exercise.
Birth control pills and other medications may be prescribed to help regulate menstrual cycles and treat symptoms like excess hair growth.
In summary,
PCOS is a common hormone disorder characterized by irregular periods, excess androgen levels, and polycystic ovarian morphology. It requires proper diagnosis and management to address both short-term symptoms and long-term health risks. Lifestyle modifications are first-line treatment.