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What Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a condition that effects women. It can not be diagnosed with a specific test but rather by a series of tests that check levels of estrogen, testosterone and DHEA. You must have your thyroid and insulin checked to determine whether or not you have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

  1. Facts

    • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, also known as PCOS, can occur when a woman's hormone levels are not balanced correctly. This hormone imbalance can cause liquid filled cysts to appear on or around the ovaries. PCOS can occur in teenage girls or during a woman's child bearing years.

    Symptoms

    • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome can be accompanied by other diseases like high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Type 2 diabetes may also occur. Some PCOS symptoms can include periods that are irregular or infrequent, while other PCOS sufferers stop having periods altogether. PCOS symptoms can include acne, obesity and facial hair. Some women have a difficult time getting pregnant with PCOS. Others have no symptoms or problems at all.

    Causes

    • Scientists have not yet determined what causes Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. However, researchers have determined that there is a connection to hormone levels and how they effect a woman's menstruation and ovary function. Sugar levels in the body may also play a role, but so far no data is available to support that as a cause of PCOS.

    Prognosis

    • The prognosis of PCOS means a few things. The syndrone puts sufferers at a higher risk for heart attacks or strokes as well as uterine or breast cancer. Also, period problems could cause the PCOS to have difficulty becoming pregnant and may lead to infertility.

    Treatment

    • There is no magic pill that will cure PCOS. However, some lifestyle changes may help to ease symptoms. Eating healthier foods, exercising more frequently or regularly and weight loss are all helpful steps to the treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Sufferers may also be given a prescription to regulate the period and balance hormones.

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