What is Polycystic ovarian syndrome?
Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a condition in which the ovaries create an excessive amount of androgens, hormones that are normally present in low amounts. The numerous tiny cysts (fluid-filled sacs) that occur in the ovaries are known as polycystic ovarian syndrome.
However, patients with this illness do not produce cysts, whereas others who do not have the disorder do. A mature egg is discharged from an ovary during ovulation. This happens so that a male sperm can fertilize it. The egg is thrown out of the body if it is not fertilized during your period.
In some situations, a hormone production is insufficient to allow her to ovulate. When ovulation fails, the ovaries might generate a number of tiny cysts. Androgens are produced by these cysts. Androgen levels are commonly elevated in Polycystic ovarian syndrome. This can exacerbate menstrual cycle issues.
Treatment for Polycystic ovarian syndrome is often done with medication. This can’t cure Polycystic ovarian syndrome, but it helps reduce symptoms and prevent some health problems.
Causes of Polycystic ovarian syndrome
The specific causes of Polycystic ovarian syndrome is unknown. Insulin resistance is common in Polycystic ovarian syndrome. This indicates that the body is unable to properly utilize insulin. Insulin levels rise in the body, potentially leading to greater androgen levels. Obesity can raise insulin levels and exacerbate Polycystic ovarian syndrome symptoms. Polycystic ovarian syndrome can run in families as well.
Symptoms of Polycystic ovarian syndrome
- Missed periods, irregular periods, or very light periods.
- Ovaries that are large or have many cysts.
- Excess body hair, including the chest, stomach, and back (hirsutism).
- Weight gain, especially around the belly (abdomen).
- Acne or oily skin.
- Male-pattern baldness or thinning hair.
- Infertility
- Small pieces of excess skin on the neck or armpits (skin tags).
- Dark or thick skin patches on the back of the neck, in the armpits, and under the breasts.
How Polycystic ovarian syndrome is diagnosed?
Your doctor will inquire about your medical history as well as your symptoms. There will also be a physical examination. This will almost certainly include a pelvic examination. This examination examines the internal and external health of your reproductive organs.
- Ultrasound
This test creates images of blood arteries, tissues, and organs using sound waves and a computer. This examination examines the size of the ovaries and determines whether they have cysts. The thickness of the uterine lining can also be examined during the examination (endometrium).
- Blood test
High levels of androgens and other hormones are looked for in these tests. Your blood glucose levels may also be checked by your doctor. Your cholesterol and triglyceride levels may also be tested.
How is Polycystic ovarian syndrome treated?
A variety of factors influence Polycystic ovarian syndrome treatment. Your age, the severity of your symptoms, and your overall health are all factors to consider. The type of treatment you receive may also be determined by your desire to become pregnant in the future. If you do intend to become pregnant, you may receive the following treatment:
- Change in diet and physical activity
A change in diet and physical activity is required. Weight loss and symptom reduction can be achieved with a nutritious diet and increased physical exercise. They can also aid in the efficient utilization of insulin, the reduction of blood glucose levels, and the ovulation process.
- Ovulation-inducing medications
Medications can aid in the natural discharge of eggs from the ovaries. There are some hazards associated with these drugs. They can improve your chances of having numerous children (twins or more). They can also result in ovarian treatment. This occurs when the ovaries produce an excessive amount of hormones. It might cause bloating in the stomach and pain in the pelvis.
- Pills for birth control
These aid in the regulation of menstrual cycles, the reduction of acne, and the reduction of testosterone levels.
- Medication for diabetes
This is frequently used to treat insulin resistance in Polycystic ovarian syndrome patients. It may also help you ovulate more frequently, reduce testosterone levels, and limit hair development.
- Other symptom-treating medications
Some drugs can aid with acne and hair growth.
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