Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that can occur in women of childbearing age. PCOS is characterized by an imbalance of reproductive hormones in the body and can cause problems with the ovaries, disrupting a woman's menstrual cycle.
In addition, PCOS can also trigger acne, unwanted body or facial hair, and increase the risk of other health problems such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Even though it affects a woman's ability to get pregnant, as known as the level of fertility, the condition can be improved with proper handling and treatment.
Therefore, let's learn the symptoms, causes, and how to treat PCOS below.
Hormones Associated with PCOS
Our bodies produce many hormones needed to support various processes in the body, including the menstrual cycle. They are closely related to a woman's fertility. The following are hormones that have a role in PCOS conditions:
1. Androgen hormones.
This hormone is often called the male hormone, but women also have it. People with PCOS tend to have a higher level of androgens.
2. Insulin hormone.
This hormone is responsible for regulating blood sugar. PCOS can affect the ability of insulin to react the way it should.
3. Progesterone hormone.
People with PCOS tend to experience a lack of the hormone progesterone, which can cause disturbances in the menstrual cycle.
PCOS symptoms
The first symptoms of PCOS often begin with the first period. Although it can vary, PCOS is usually diagnosed when you have two or more of the following symptoms:
1. Irregular menstrual cycles.
Having irregular menstrual cycles is a common symptom of PCOS, including more prolonged than usual periods.
2. Have excessive amounts of androgen hormones
High levels of androgen hormones are characterized by the appearance of excess hair on the face and body, also known as hirsutism.
3. There are cysts on the ovaries.
This condition is also called polycystic ovaries, characterized by larger ovaries due to immature eggs developing around the ovaries.
Causes of PCOS
Although the exact cause cannot be determined, the following factors play a role in the development of PCOS:
1. Insulin resistance.
If cells resist insulin, the body will try to lower blood sugar levels by producing more insulin. Too much insulin hormone can also trigger the body to produce too much androgen hormone, which can interfere with ovulation.
2. Genetic factors.
Research says that several inherited genes are linked to PCOS. Therefore, having a family with PCOS can affect the development of a person's PCOS.
How to Handle PCOS
In general, a healthy lifestyle, a good diet, and taking medication according to the doctor's directions can increase the fertility rate of a woman with PCOS.
1. Manage a healthy weight.
Not everyone with PCOS is overweight, but most are. The benefits of losing weight, if you are overweight or obese, include being able to return hormones to their proper level.
2. Manage blood sugar.
Many people with PCOS have insulin resistance. Therefore, try to maintain blood sugar levels at a stable level. One of the ways is to be wise in consuming foods that contain sugar.
3. Exercise regularly.
Exercise can burn calories and increase muscle mass which functions to reduce insulin resistance levels.
It is recommended to see a medical professional if you have concerns about your existing menstrual cycle, especially if PCOS symptoms have appeared, such as irregular periods and the appearance of excess hair on the face and body. PCOS that is not handled properly can cause difficulty getting pregnant to infertility.
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Sources:
WebMD Editorial Contributors. (2022). Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). [online]. https://www.webmd.com/women/what-is-pcos
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2022). [online]. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pcos/symptoms-causes/syc-20353439