What Is PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects women and the menstrual cycle. A person with PCOS suffers from irregular periods and other symptoms caused by imbalanced hormones. The ovaries release estrogen and progesterone hormones in addition to an egg every month. This signals the start of the menstrual cycle. PCOS can make the egg deformed or prevent the body from releasing an egg. This can render a woman infertile or lead to the development of cysts.
How does irregular bleeding affect a woman?v
Irregular bleeding associated with PCOS can make conception difficult. Periods can range from infrequent to every 21 days. Some women may stop having periods altogether. PCOS also contributes to other blood-related diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. In fact, excessive insulin is one of the causes of PCOS. If the body develops a resistance to insulin, the body will produce more insulin to overcompensate. Insulin resistance is the root cause of diabetes.
Does PCOS make a woman gain weight?
Women with PCOS are more susceptible to weight gain. This is due to the excessive amounts of androgens in the bloodstream. Androgens are male hormones that negatively affect a woman when too much of the hormone is present in the body. Androgen hormones can make women gain weight in the abdomen. Unfortunately, abdominal fat is associated with heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Can PCOS make a woman infertile?
PCOS is directly linked to infertility in women. Women become infertile because the body stops releasing eggs, so there is no egg for the sperm cells to fertilize. Women with PCOS who are able to conceive are at higher risk of miscarriage and gestational diabetes, among other pregnancy complications. To help women with PCOS conceive, doctors may prescribe medication, suggest losing weight, or recommend starting IVF treatments.
Should I consult a doctor?
A healthcare provider is the only person that can diagnose someone with PCOS. Before starting treatments for the disease, the physician will evaluate the patient to see what can be done about the PCOS or fertility issues the woman is experiencing. Speak with a healthcare provider to learn more about PCOS and treatment options.