PCOS Overview: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a very common hormonal disorder that sees approximately 5-10% of females affected by it. Most manifest symptoms like irregularness in periods, an increase in androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries. Though the exact cause for it remains unknown, the whole condition runs in complex interaction with the hormonal imbalance and metabolic disorders, which cast its bad influence on an individual's health. In this blog post, we'll highlight the varied causes and symptoms of PCOS as well as their treatment options.

What Causes PCOS?

Most of the cases of PCOS occur because of the problems in the reproductive system, primarily due to the hormones such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and androgens (male hormones such as testosterone). All of these lead to problems concerning ovulation and, consequently, irregular cycles of menstruation. The normal process in the ovaries produces small follicles (cysts), none of which grow big enough for an egg to be produced and released. Consequently, estrogen, progesterone, and androgens become elevated, bringing symptoms of PCOS which ensue.

Another condition of the metabolic system entity features in the process. Most PCOS individuals are diagnosed with the so-called insulin resistance, meaning cells of the body become more "deaf" to insulin's effects. As a result, the amount of insulin in the bloodstream rises. Often, insulin resistance comes along with weight gains and obesity, leading to a high chance of type 2 diabetes developing.

Some common symptoms of PCOS

An Irregular Musical Cycle: Infrequent to no menstruation: PCOS women have an average of less than six to eight monthly cycles, and this deficiency to ovulate means that even when they have periods, they are usually heavier and longer.

Abnormal Hair Growth (Hirsutism): It leads to excessive androgen production, which often results in male-pattern hair growth such as facial hair or on chest or abdomen.

Acne followed by Thinning of Hair on the Scalp: An imbalance in hormonal levels can cause not only skin to turn oily and acne to appear but also hair to thin on the scalp.

Infertility: The ovulation problem caused by PCOS makes a woman have a hard time getting pregnant.

Weight gain: Around 50% of women with PCOS are overweight or obese, which adds to the complication in hormonal imbalances and increases other health risks, including diabetes.

Treatment Options for PCOS

There is no cure for the condition, but there are many treatments available for the patient that can help manage life and symptoms. Most common interventions are:

Lifestyle Changes: Weight management through healthy eating and exercise can positively affect insulin sensitivity and improve the effectiveness of menstrual regulation.

Medications: Hormonal contraceptives for those that either wish to regulate their periods or for other symptoms, such as acne or hirsutism. Also, Metformin works for insulin resistance.

Fertility Treatments: If fertility is desired, medications such as Clomid or injections are used for ovulation induction. 

Cosmetic Treatments: Such include laser hair removal and anti-androgen medications, for example, spironolactone, which help reduce excessive hair growth for those suffering from hirsutism and acne. 

Psychological treatment: Emotional problems usually follow management, and cultural factors stimulate the need for counseling or m...

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