Polycystic ovarian syndrome is one of the most common female endocrine disorders resulting from hormonal imbalances and presence of small cysts on the ovary. This affects 5%-15% of women in the reproductive age (between 12-45) and was once thought to be the leading cause of infertility in women.
What are the causes of PCOS?
There are numerous factors that scientists point out as the leading cause of PCOS. One such cause is Insulin resistance. It is believed that impaired glucose tolerance and high levels of insulin stimulate the ovaries to produce large amounts of the male hormone testosterone which possibly prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs and cause infertility. With this insulin resistance, the production of insulin by the pancreas is thrown off and there results an increase storage of fats due to the impairment of the conversion of food to energy. This storage of fat also encourages the production of testosterone.
Genetic makeup may also play a role in PCOS. Women with this condition often have a mother or a sister with the same affliction and typically, they start out with irregular menses during adolescence. The ovaries in these women often have several small cysts, hence the name, although there are also a number of women without symptoms of PCOS that hold several cysts in their ovaries. These cysts are in fact follicles, similar to those that become healthy eggs. But unlike their healthy counterpart, these do not become fully developed and prompt surrounding tissues to inhibit follicular development and release of eggs.
Another theory is the hormonal abnormality in those with PCOS. Lutienizing hormone of LH causes the upsurge in ovulation, and in extra amounts, causes the whole system to go haywire. Early exposure to male hormones in utero may also cause this.
Specific causes have yet to be properly determined, that is why treatment of PCOS is also very limited as of the moment.
What are the signs and symptoms of PCOS?
The most outward symptom of PCOS is irregular or absent menses. Menstrual disturbances may include delay in normal menstruation or absence at all. These menses may not be associated with ovulation and heavy bleeding may occur.
Because of the increase in the male hormone testosterone, women with PCOS may exhibit masculine features such as excess facial and body hair. Due to the storage of fats, women with PCOS tend to get earlier skin and more acne, may tend to be overweight or obese ,have high cholesterol levels and elevated blood pressure. Insulin resistance in turn causes Type II Diabetes. Other symptoms include dandruff, hair discoloration and most evidently, infertility.
A diagnosis of PCOS is made when there is irregular or absence of menstrual periods in addition to signs of hyperandrogenism without another medical cause, and other conditions that may cause irregular periods have been ruled out (thyroid problems, CAH, Cushing’s syndrome). A transvaginal examination may be done, as well as endometrial biopsy and blood works to detect levels of LH, FSH and other associated hormones in the bloodstream.
Suggested PCOS Treatments and Management
The management of PCOS requires a multidisciplinary approach that focuses on the woman’s menstrual irregularities, insulin and hormonal imbalances, obesity and mental and emotional aspects.
Because the ovaries in a woman with PCOS is in an testosterone rich environment, it is important to note that providing an estrogen rich environment may help in stimulating ovulation and increase fertility. Gonadotrophin, hCG, clomiphene and other drugs are prescribed in order to bring this about. However, it can be noted that while most women do not entirely respond to this hormone manipulation, there are also those that do. It all depends on how your body reacts to these hormones individually.
Many women have also turned to Traditional Chinese Medicine which focuses more on the health of the uterine environment, and not so much on the health of the eggs. In order to do this, it is recommended that an increase intake of foods rich in B vitamins should be included in the diet. Good sources of B vitamins include whole grains, vegetables and meats. A diet that’s low in sugar and contains simple sugars should also be included for those with insulin resistance. Refrain from eating high starchy foods that contain complex sugars which makes it harder for the body to get rid off and cause an excess storage of fat.
Aside from diet restrictions, there are also traditional Chinese herbs used to promote ovulation. Gleditsia and Leunoros have long been believed to improve blood circulation and stimulate the release of eggs. Herbal therapy, although not endorse by Western medicine has been given recognition in the recent years due to its effectiveness.
Physical exercise to combat obesity is also included. It is also done in order to burn out excess fat storage and help the body fight against it resistance to insulin.
For women experiencing excessive hair growth, they can consult their doctor about the many medications used to suppress this.
Surgeries may also improve the likelihood of ovulation and pregnancy such as laparoscopic ovarian drilling, ovarian wedge resection, or in-vitro fertilization. These options are more expensive and less popular so it’s important for you to ask your doctor about these choices first.
Organizations and support groups are also available to those who want to access information, resources and services. They work toward a common goal and this may be beneficial for the well-being of your state of mind. A healthy and happy disposition is after all, precursor to leading productive and meaningful lives.
Hi – This website gives advice on how to treat PCOS.
