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What is PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome)

It is estimated that as many as 10 percent of women suffer from PCOS – polycystic ovarian syndrome, a condition when small cysts form in the ovary. Unfortunately it is a very common problem between the young women and is strongly associated with modern high sugar diet and, consequently, insulin resistance.

How Ovarian Cysts Form

Sometimes an egg fails to develop and be released normally. Instead, it continues to grow under stimulation of follicle stimulating hormone. It may grow to a size of a small ball causing a considerable pain and bleeding. However, ovarian cysts may also be symptomless.
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What Are Symptoms of PCOS

Because symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome are often confused with signs and symptoms of other hormonal disorders, the condition is often left untreated until it becomes severe. Here are the most common signs and symptoms of PCOS:

  • weight gain, especially around the waist area (apple shape)
  • acne
  • excessive body and facial hair accompanied by head hair loss (male pattern boldness)
  • breast pain
  • depression, mood swings and chronic fatigue
  • abnormal menstrual cycle, which could be irregular periods, extremely heavy periods, irregular periods, painful periods, or no periods at all
  • infertility

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of PCOS is done through blood tests and ultra sound. Generally women with PCOS have high male hormones, high LDL cholesterol, high insulin and high triglycerides.

Treatment of PCOS

Usually contraceptive pills are prescribed to regulate menstruation, reduce androgen levels and clear up acne. Some cases of PCOS need surgery. Lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress, exercise and low-glycemic diet proved to bring a significant relief. In case woman wishes to get pregnant, fertility drugs may be prescribed.

in Health and Wellness

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