Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
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Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) or Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Causes, Symptoms and Ayurvedic Treatment

PCOD

What is Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD)?

Polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS is a hormonal condition that often arises during your reproductive years. If you’re dealing with Polycystic ovary syndrome, you might notice that your periods are infrequent or last for several days at a time. It is also common to have elevated levels of androgens, which are male hormones, in your body.

In individuals with Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), various small fluid-filled sacs, known as cysts, can form around the outer edge of the ovaries. These cysts contain immature eggs, called follicles, which typically do not release eggs as they should.

Although the precise cause of PCOS remains unclear, early diagnosis and treatment, alongside weight loss, can significantly reduce the risk of experiencing long-term complications such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

Polycystic ovary syndrome - Symptoms

PCOS symptoms often begin during the first menstrual period or may develop later on after having regular cycles for a while. These symptoms can vary widely, and a diagnosis of PCOS typically occurs when at least two of the following signs are present:

  • Irregular Periods:
    A common indication of PCOS is having infrequent or irregular menstrual cycles. For instance, you might experience fewer than nine periods a year, with intervals exceeding 35 days between them. Some may also face extended periods that last longer than usual, potentially leading to difficulties with conception.
  • Excess Androgen:
    An elevated level of androgens—male hormones—can lead to symptoms like increased facial and body hair, known as hirsutism. Additionally, you may experience severe acne or male-pattern baldness.
  • Polycystic Ovaries:
    Your ovaries could be enlarged, with multiple immature egg follicles developing around them, which might hinder their proper functioning.

People with obesity may find that these signs and symptoms are more intense.

Polycystic ovary syndrome - Causes

While the exact cause of PCOS remains unclear, several factors could contribute, including:

  • Insulin Resistance:
    Insulin, produced by the pancreas, allows your cells to utilize sugar for energy. If your cells resist insulin, blood sugar levels may increase, prompting the body to produce more insulin. Elevated insulin can lead to excess production of androgens, potentially disrupting ovulation. Signs of insulin resistance might include dark, velvety patches of skin on areas like the neck, armpits, groin, or under the breasts, along with increased appetite and weight gain.
  • Low-Grade Inflammation:
    White blood cells respond to infections or injuries with an inflammatory process. Individuals with PCOS reportedly experience a type of long-term, low-grade inflammation that prompts polycystic ovaries to produce androgens, potentially leading to cardiovascular issues.
  • Heredity:
    Certain genetic factors may be associated with PCOS, suggesting that a family history of the condition might influence its development.
  • Excess Androgen Production:
    In PCOS, the ovaries might generate elevated levels of androgens, disrupting the regular ovulation cycle. This imbalance can hinder egg development and release from their respective follicles, contributing to hirsutism and acne.

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Complications

The complications arising from PCOS can include:

  • Infertility
  • Gestational diabetes or pregnancy-induced high blood pressure
  • Miscarriage or premature birth
  • Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis — a severe liver inflammation caused by fat buildup in the liver
  • Metabolic syndrome — a cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and unhealthy cholesterol or triglyceride levels that significantly increase your risk of heart and blood vessel (cardiovascular) disease
  • Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes
  • Sleep apnoea
  • Depression, anxiety and eating disorders
  • Cancer of the uterine lining (endometrial cancer)
  • Obesity commonly occurs with PCOS and can worsen complications of the disorder.