Are you concerned about polycystic ovarian syndrome? It's a legitimate concern of many women, especially if they're experiencing symptoms that they don't understand. In this article, we'll help you understand what this syndrome is, what its symptoms are, and what you can do to treat it. Let's get into it.
Key Points
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome involves the growth of multiple cysts in the ovaries.
- This syndrome can cause issues with fertility, along with a host of other symptoms throughout the body.
- Treatment depends on the symptoms being experienced. Currently, there is no cure for polycystic ovarian syndrome.
What is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome?
As the word ‘polycystic’ suggests, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a condition in which the ovaries develop multiple cysts. Cysts are a normal part of the maturation of the egg during the ovulation cycle. For up to 10% of women, this for some reason goes wrong. The eggs and cysts develop normally, but for some reason the cyst never opens to release the egg into the fallopian tubes. The egg and cyst are retained in the ovaries, forming and retaining new cysts with each ovulation cycle.
Symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
The most common symptom is that of infertility. This seems a logical ailment since the eggs are never exposed for fertilization. The menstrual cycle is also altered in other ways, like irregular or prolonged periods with lots PMS symptoms like bloating, mood swings, and pain in back or abdomen. Irregular ovulation and painful sex can be other symptoms.
There are other symptoms too that are less clearly connected to the reproductive system, such as: weight problems, high insulin levels, androgynous effects (male type hair growth on face and hair loss), skin problems, and depression.
Symptoms can vary widely both in type and severity from woman to woman and getting an accurate diagnosis can be tricky.
Causes of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
What then is going on in the body that can wreak such wide-spread havoc? The simple and documented answer is that an endocrine disorder is the sole cause of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. This is why the symptoms are so variable and spread across bodily systems.
Find Relief From Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
It is important to contact your doctor if you suspect you may have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Like the symptoms, treatment options are varied. The course of treatment you and your doctor pursue will depend on what your goals and desires are. For example, if lowering insulin levels is your main concern, then lifestyle changes and insulin controlling medication may be the best course of action. This would not, however, restore fertility, which would require completely different medication as well as possible surgical procedures.
Infertility can be very upsetting to those who want children. There are treatment options for those who suffer from infertility. If you are absolutely unable to conceive, even with treatment, it can be a rough situation for you. Struggling with an infertility diagnosis is not easy; we encourage you to speak with a mental health professional as soon as possible. They can help you make peace with this change, and help you look toward other options for having children, such as adoption. Don't throw in the towel before talking to a doctor about possible infertility treatments, though!
Whatever your treatment options are, discuss them with your doctor and you are likely to get the result you want. While Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is treatable, there is currently no cure- but you can get the relief you need.
Do not take the content of this article as professional medical advice. It's important to exercise due diligence when obtaining relevant information in matters pertaining to your health. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any medical decisions.