Did you know that among the factors that cause infertility in women the leading cause stems from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?
With 7 undiagnosed out of every 10 females living with the condition, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can be explained as a hormonal imbalance that occurs when your ovaries (the organ that produces and releases eggs) create excess hormones.
The term ‘polycystic ovarian syndrome’ implies that the disease is mostly with the ovaries and that you may have multiple cysts on them. However, it is a hormone-related disorder that can sometimes be linked to family history, genetics, lifestyle, and environment.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome can be diagnosed by two key symptoms: high androgen levels (hair loss, acne, or higher testosterone), irregular menstrual cycles (after other reasons have been ruled out), and polycystic ovaries on an ultrasound scan. Blood tests can identify hormone changes in women with polycystic ovary syndrome, including elevated levels of testosterone, estrogen, luteinizing hormone, insulin, and anti-mullerian hormone.
Starting most often after puberty to later in life, symptoms include heavy bleeding, irregular periods, weight increase, acne, hair growth, male pattern baldness, skin discoloration, and migraines. More than 70% of women with PCOS experience hirsutism as a result of facial and body hair growth. Male hormones can also bring acne, weight gain, and so on. Hormonal fluctuations in certain women might result in headaches, and dark patches of skin can develop in body creases. The inability to ovulate results in these symptoms because it stops the uterine lining from shedding each month.
This common hormonal issue affects 8-13% of women in their reproductive age. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience problems with periods, pregnancy, or excess androgen, such as hair growth, acne, or male-pattern baldness.
