What you need to know about polycystic ovarian syndrome or PCOS

Because its symptoms could easily be mistaken for something else, and other times it doesn’t have symptoms at all, polycystic ovarian syndrome is one of the most insidious disorders a woman could have.

In fact, thousands of women worldwide are affected by PCOS and not know it.

Known as a hormonal disorder, PCOS harms a woman’s reproductive system, and its most common symptoms include a woman’s irregular cycle.

Another cause of PCOS has to do with the high levels of androgen—a male hormone—in women’s bodies, says eMedicinal Health.

Having your symptoms checked by an OB-GYN can help ascertain whether or not you have PCOS.

So far there is no cure for it. Instead a lifestyle change is necessary to eliminate the risk and symptoms.

In a Parent Herald story, OB-GYN Angelique Panagos said that women with PCOS does not have a regular menstrual cycle, thus making ovulation harder for them.

“The symptoms of PCOS actually vary dramatically by person; more than half of women don't have—or believe they have—any at all,” she said. “Some of the most common signs and symptoms include, oily skin and recurring acne, irregular, infrequent or absent periods (known medically as amenorreah), excess facial and body hair growth, head hair loss or thinning, and weight gain.”

For those who want to have a baby, they may find it difficult because of the irregular ovulation. They are even have increased risk of because of the condition.

Meanwhile, in a Cosmopolitan article, it posited that a woman’s weight as well as her diet plays an important role when it comes to PCOS, since being overweight affects one’s insulin and insulin affects PCOS.

PCOS can also lead to other health concerns for women, some of which include type 2 diabetes and cancer related health risks.

“It is important for women to visit the OB-GYN before getting pregnant to make sure that the body is ready to conceive and avoid complications,” said the Parent Herald story. “If you do have anything to share regarding PCOS and pregnancy, do let us know your thoughts through the comment section below.”

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