Polycystic ovary syndrome, more commonly known as (PCOS), is one of the most common hormonal conditions that affect women worldwide. PCOS is a condition that can begin any time during the reproductive years of a woman.
PCOS does not always present itself with the same signs for every woman, but there are a few common ones that may help indicate whether you have the condition. As with other medical issues, the earlier you detect it, the better you can handle and seek appropriate care. With that, here are the common signs and symptoms of PCOS and what you can do to treat them.
What Causes PCOS?
Many studies are still being conducted on PCOS, its exact cause, and how you can potentially prevent it. However, current research shows that the hormonal imbalance may be an inherited condition related to multiple genomes or problems encountered during fetal development.
Signs and Symptoms
When it comes to Polycystic ovary syndrome, signs and symptoms may vary for each person, with the presentation potentially changing as you age. However, some of the common things you will notice include the following:
Irregular or No Periods
Due to the erratic nature of their period, women tend to be unable to properly predict when their fertile windows are. As a result, there are instances where women will not enter their ovulation periods, making it difficult to conceive without external help.
Thinning or Loss of Hair
Androgen influx in your bloodstream can cause something similar to male pattern baldness. In addition, you may also experience hair thinning or hair loss in your torso, gluteal region, and face.
Weight Gain
The increase in insulin resistance makes it easier for fat to store itself inside your body. In around half of all women, PCOS is linked to progressive weight gain and obesity. This accumulation can quickly build up to bulk you up if you do not manage your diet well.
Mental Health and Mood Problems
PCOS can affect your confidence and personal body image if you notice any undesirable changes like hair loss, weight gain, or infertility. Understanding where your mental health concerns may be arising is important to ensure that you can seek proper help.
Hormonal Treatments and Alternatives
Thanks to modern medicine, you now have many options to handle your PCOS. Doctors can prescribe both conservative approaches and more medicine-based treatments or therapies to manage your specific symptoms. These prescriptions help make life easier by reducing the effects of PCOS on your body.
Ovulation Medication
If you are trying to conceive, then your doctor may prescribe gonadotropins or other stimulating medications. In addition, there are hormone-based injections or pills you can take to help improve your chances of ovulating every month.
Progestin Supplements
To assist in regularising erratic period cycles, you may be a candidate for progestin-related medications. Certain types of progestin supplements can also be helpful for lowering your androgen levels to help with symptoms such as excessive hair growth.
If you experience several symptoms of PCOS, you should visit a doctor as soon as possible to get a proper diagnosis. Managing the symptoms of this condition is important to prevent long-term health problems that may arise. By being aware of the common warning signs and working with your physician, you can develop an appropriate treatment plan.
