Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is basically a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age.
It is very common — up to 15% of females of reproductive age have PCOS.
How to know if you have PCOS?
Here are some symptoms and signs that you might have:
- Irregular or missed periods
- High androgen levels
- Small cysts on the ovaries
- Abnormal hair growth
- Acne
- Obesity
- Darkening of the skin
- Skin tags
- Thinning hair
- Infertility
And please don’t forget to see your healthcare provider if you’re concerned about experiencing these symptoms.
The sad news is, even if you don’t have the symptoms, you still might have PCOS. Many people don’t even realize they have the condition until they have trouble getting pregnant or are gaining weight for unknown reasons. It’s also possible to have mild PCOS, where the symptoms aren’t severe enough for you to notice.
What causes PCOS?
While the exact cause remains unknown, some factors can support it. Such as:
- Insulin resistance.
- Low-grade inflammation.
- Heredity.
- Excess androgen.
Also, it can lead to a range of health issues, including infertility, weight gain, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Does it ever go away?
There isn’t a treatment that permanently cures it. However, your healthcare provider can help you manage your symptoms. The effects may change over time so that you become less aware of the condition.
