Common Questions about PCOS

Polycystic ovarian syndrome, commonly abbreviated as PCOS, is a hormonal problem that affects around ten million women in the US. Every woman who reaches puberty will start to experience a menstrual cycle, but some women might have PCOS and not even know it because they think their cycle is "normal".

As a woman gets older, however, the signs will usually become more apparent. They might, however, still be attributed to other causes. It is often only when a woman tries to become pregnant and has fertility issues that the true diagnosis of PCOS comes to light. Here are some of the most common questions about PCOS and what to look out for.

1. What Causes PCOS?

The exact cause is unknown, but it is a hormonal problem which might also have genetic and environmental causes.

2. What Hormones Are Involved?

The hormones involved in PCOS include:

Androgens

These are commonly thought of as "male hormones". Women with PCOS tend to have higher levels of testosterone, for example. Some of the excess androgens are produced by the ovaries, but others are produced by the adrenal glands just above the kidneys. As a result of excess androgens, women may experience range of symptoms, which include:

* Unwanted body hair, such as face, back, and chest
* Thinning hair in middle age, similar to men going bald
* Irregular or no periods

Insulin Resistance

Insulin is an essential hormone that allows the body to absorb glucose (blood sugar) into the cells in order to provide energy. With PCOS, the body becomes insulin resistant, which means the body is not able to process glucose efficiently. This can lead to high blood sugar levels and set off a chain reaction in which the body will create more and more insulin. More insulin can trigger an increase in androgens.

Lack of Progesterone

Progesterone is an essential female hormone related to pregnancy and the maintenance of a healthy pregnancy. In PCOS, a lack of progesterone contributes to irregular periods and to a lack of fertility.

3. What Are the Main Symptoms of PCOS?

The main symptoms include:

* Acne
* Patches of dry or discolored skin
* Excessive hairiness on legs, arm and face
* Balding, particularly in middle age
* Weight gain/obesity
* Diabetes
* Sleep disorders, such as insomnia
* Sleep apnea, particularly in obese women
* Tiredness
* Fatigue even after resting
* Low energy
* Headaches and migraines
* Mood swings
* Anxiety
* Depression
* Irregular periods
* Skipped periods
* Pelvic pain, especially during periods
* Infertility

4. What Are the Treatments for It?

There are several treatments to help relieve symptoms. A low-fat diet and weight loss can help. So too can moderate exercise. Making a good night’s sleep a priority can also help. If you do not wish to become pregnant, birth control pills can even out your hormones and help with acne and excessive hairiness.

If you want to become pregnant, all of the lifestyle changes and various fertility treatments can help. So too can yoga, to help relieve stress and keep you fit. Meditation and relaxation can relieve mood swings, anxiety and depression.

If you think you might have PCOS, talk to your doctor about your concerns and work out a treatment plan that’s right for you.