Happy PCOS Awareness Month! Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, often abbreviated as PCOS, is a hormonal disorder that affects people with ovaries, primarily those of reproductive age. It's characterized by a range of symptoms and can have significant implications for a person's health and well-being.
PCOS is considered a complex and multifaceted condition, and its exact cause isn't fully understood. However, it's believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors that lead to hormonal imbalances in the body.
The primary symptoms of PCOS include:
Irregular Menstrual Cycles: People with PCOS often experience irregular periods, which can mean infrequent or prolonged cycles. This irregularity is due to hormonal imbalances that affect the normal ovulation process.
Hyperandrogenism: This term refers to higher-than-normal levels of androgens, which are often referred to as "male hormones" though they're present in all genders. Elevated androgen levels can lead to symptoms like acne, excess facial and body hair (hirsutism), and male-pattern hair loss (androgenic alopecia).
Ovarian Cysts: Despite the name "polycystic," not all people with PCOS have actual cysts on their ovaries. The term comes from the appearance of the ovaries on ultrasound, where they might have multiple small follicles that look like cysts. These follicles might contain eggs that have not matured properly due to hormonal imbalances. However, ovarian cysts are a common symptom of PCOS.
Insulin Resistance: Many individuals with PCOS also have insulin resistance, a condition where the body's cells don't respond as effectively to insulin. This can lead to higher levels of insulin in the blood, which in turn can contribute to weight gain and other metabolic issues.
Metabolic Disturbances: Insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular problems.
Diagnosing PCOS usually involves a combination of clinical evaluation, a review of symptoms, blood tests to measure hormone levels, and sometimes pelvic ultrasound to examine the ovaries. Since PCOS presents with a range of symptoms and severity varies, not all individuals will have the same experience. Treatment options also depend on the individual's symptoms, reproductive goals, and overall health. They can include:
Lifestyle Changes: This can include a balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight to help manage insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances.
Medications: Hormonal birth control can help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce androgen levels, and control symptoms like acne and hirsutism. Other medications, such as anti-androgens and medications to induce ovulation, may also be prescribed. Advanced Wellness & Health offers hormone replacement therapy, which can alleviate symptoms.
PCOS is a chronic condition, but with proper management and healthcare, its impact can be minimized. If you suspect you have PCOS or are experiencing symptoms related to the disorder, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. At Advanced Wellness & Health, PCOS diagnosis and treatment is one of our specialties. Learn more about our mission and intake process here.
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