What Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome & What Causes It?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a disorder that affects a woman's hormonal balance. It affects approximately 5 percent of all women. PCOS can cause a woman to have problems with her menstrual cycle and can also make it difficult for her to become pregnant. Most women who are diagnosed with PCOS are either overweight or obese, but normal weight and small framed women can have it as well.

Causes

• PCOS is mainly caused by hormone imbalances. There may be one or several causes for the imbalance. PCOS can also be hereditary. The risk of having PCOS is higher if it runs in a woman's family. Some other factors that may cause a woman to develop PCOS are having high sugar levels. Hyperandrogenism, which is overproduction of the male hormones, can cause PCOS as well. Also, a woman who is overweight is at higher risk for developing PCOS.

Symptoms

• PCOS symptoms can begin when a woman is in her teens or they may appear later in life. Some of the symptoms that a woman may experience would be irregular periods. This is one of the main reasons why a woman would seek medical help. Some women may not have any periods or they may have heavy bleeding when it does come. This can also lead to fertility problems. Women will also notice a little weight gain and may have difficulty trying to lose it. Extra hair may appear on the face as well as on the belly, back or chest. Other symptoms of PCOS may also include acne and thinning hair.

  When a woman sees a physician concerning these symptoms, an ultrasound may be done. The ultrasound may show tiny cysts on the woman's ovaries. The cysts are not harmful and may not be painful. They can, however, lead to hormonal imbalance. This is why this medical condition is called PCOS.

Diagnosis

• When being diagnosed with PCOS, a physician will inquire about any past health problems, symptoms and the woman's menstrual cycle schedules. A physical exam will also be done to check the woman for high blood pressure and extra body hair. The physician will also check to make sure that the woman has a body mass index that is suitable for her height and weight. Numerous lab tests will be done to check the woman's blood sugar, hormone and insulin levels. A pelvic ultrasound will be done in order to check for cysts on the ovaries.

Treatment

• Currently, PCOS has no cure. A physician can prescribe medication to help treat it. A woman may be prescribed birth control pills to help regulate her period. Birth control pills can also help with any acne problems and/or facial hair. A diabetic medication called Metformin can also be prescribed. Metformin also goes by the name Glucophage. It is used to help control blood sugar levels and insulin, therefore lowering the risk for diabetes. Metformin can also help to regulate the woman's menstrual cycle and increase fertility. If a woman desires to get pregnant soon, her physician can prescribe fertility pills as well.

Prevention

• If PCOS is under control, it can lower a woman's risk of diabetes, heart disease and infertility. Some ways to control the condition are to exercise regularly so that one can take control of their weight. By losing at least 10 pounds, it will help to get the hormones back in balance. Also, eat healthier foods and drink plenty of water. This can also help to lower one's cholesterol and blood pressure. If a woman is a smoker, she should consider quitting because it can lead to PCOS symptoms.