As if being a woman is not complicated enough, there's always a disorder associated with almost every part of our system. I’ve been hearing about PCOS for a while now and I have no idea what it was. All I know is that it has to do with the female reproductive system and it affects about 6–12% of women worldwide, making it one of the most common hormonal disorders in women of reproductive age.
No matter how unique you think a condition is, you find that a handful of people are already in the same plight. It gives credence to the meaning that you are not alone in this world. Or at least you’re not as special as you think…. Just kidding. Each and every one of us is unique in our own way. So back to the issue at hand.
 |
| Image credit: Canva |
SO WHAT IS PCOS?
Apparently, PCOS stands for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. It is a common hormonal disorder that affects people with ovaries (yes, women again), typically during their reproductive years. PCOS is a leading cause of ovulatory infertility, contributing to difficulties in conceiving due to irregular or absent ovulation. The exact cause of PCOS is not fully ascertained, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
HOW DO YOU KNOW YOU HAVE PCOS?
PCOS has a combination of symptoms so this can vary from person to person. A few of these symptoms include:
Irregular Menstrual Cycles
PCOS can cause irregular periods or a lack of periods (amenorrhea) due to irregular ovulation.
Excess Androgen Levels
Elevated levels of male hormones (androgens) such as testosterone, which can lead to symptoms like acne, excessive facial or body hair (hirsutism), and male-pattern baldness.
Polycystic Ovaries
Enlarged ovaries with multiple small follicles (fluid-filled sacs) that surround the eggs. Despite the name, not all people with PCOS have cysts on their ovaries.
Insulin Resistance
Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which can lead to higher insulin levels, contributing to weight gain and difficulty losing weight.
 |
| Insulin Injection. Image from Canva |
Other common symptoms and potential risks associated with PCOS include:
- Difficulty getting pregnant (due to irregular ovulation)
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Type 2 diabetes
- High cholesterol levels
- High blood pressure
- Sleep apnea
- Endometrial cancer
- Mood disorders such as depression and anxiety
- Pelvic pain
CAUSES OF PCOS
Doctors aren’t exactly sure what causes PCOS (which I find odd given the knowledge and technology at our disposal), but it seems to be a mix of genetics, hormones, and lifestyle. Here are some possible reasons:
Family History: If your mom, sister, or aunt has PCOS, you might have a higher chance of getting it too.
Hormone Imbalance: Women with PCOS often have too much of certain hormones, like androgens (male hormones), which can affect ovulation.
Insulin Issues: Many girls with PCOS have trouble using insulin properly, which can lead to weight gain and more hormone problems.
Unhealthy Habits: Eating lots of junk food, not exercising, and being overweight can make PCOS worse.
Early Life Factors: Some doctors think PCOS might start before birth. If a baby is exposed to too many androgens in the womb, it could lead to PCOS later. How insane is that?
Since PCOS doesn’t go away on its own, it’s important to get help early to manage symptoms and stay healthy! PCOS is a continuing condition that requires regular management, and like any other ailments or disease: it requires early diagnosis and treatment to help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
CAN IT BE TREATED?
Sadly PCOS has no cure, however, its symptoms can often be managed with lifestyle changes and medical treatments. Treatment for PCOS depends on the individual's symptoms and goals, and may include lifestyle changes (such as diet and exercise), medications (such as hormonal contraceptives to regulate periods or anti-androgen medications to reduce symptoms like hirsutism), and fertility treatments for those trying to conceive.
Lifestyle Changes:
- Maintaining a nutritious diet.
- Regular physical activity.
- Managing weight.
Medications:
- Hormonal birth control to regulate periods and reduce androgen levels.
- Medications like metformin to address insulin resistance.
- Fertility treatments for women trying to conceive.
Other Therapies:
- Hair removal treatments for excess hair growth.
- Psychological counseling for mood-related issues.
HOW CAN PCOS BE PREVENTED?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent PCOS because of its complex nature. However, adopting a healthy lifestyle, maintaining a balanced weight, and managing insulin levels can reduce the risk of developing symptoms or complications associated with PCOS.
If you feel you might be at risk, regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help with early detection and management. Early management can improve quality of life and reduce long-term health risks. This is one of the reasons why medical checkups have become so important. These days, you can never be too careful.
Until then, take care of yourself.
.jpg)
No comments
Post a Comment