Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age. It affects how the ovaries work and can cause problems with menstrual cycles, fertility, and hormone balance.
What is PCOS?
PCOS occurs when the ovaries produce higher-than-normal levels of male hormones (androgens). This hormonal imbalance can interfere with the normal development and release of eggs from the ovaries.
Common Symptoms
Women with PCOS may experience:
-
Irregular or missed periods
-
Excess hair growth on the face, chest, or back
-
Acne or oily skin
-
Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
-
Thinning hair or hair loss on the scalp
-
Difficulty getting pregnant
-
Enlarged ovaries with small cysts
Causes
The exact cause of PCOS is not fully known, but several factors may play a role:
-
Hormonal imbalance
-
Insulin resistance
-
Genetic factors (family history)
-
Inflammation in the body
Possible Complications
If untreated, PCOS can increase the risk of:
-
Infertility
-
Type 2 Diabetes
-
High Blood Pressure
-
Endometrial Cancer
-
Metabolic problems
Treatment Options
Although PCOS cannot be completely cured, it can be effectively managed through:
-
Lifestyle changes (healthy diet and regular exercise)
-
Medications to regulate periods
-
Hormonal therapy
-
Fertility treatments if pregnancy is desired