Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
About polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), its causes and treatment options
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition affecting women during their reproductive years. PCOS can wreak havoc with your hormones that in turn affects your periods, your skin and your hair. It can cause cysts (fluid-filled sacs) on the ovaries.
Around 10% of women may have PCOS in their lifetime. Experts believe this rate underestimates the true number of women with PCOS. It’s possible that up to 70% of women live with undiagnosed PCOS.
What are the symptoms of PCOS?
The symptoms of PCOS are wide-ranging. And many women can have completely different set of symptoms compared to other women with PCOS.
PCOS symptoms you can look out for include:
- irregular periods, no periods at all or abnormal vaginal bleeding
- infertility
- too much hair on your face and body (hirsutism) or thinning hair or baldness (alopecia)
- acne or patches of dark, thickened skin
- problems managing weight (with or without bloating)
- depression, anxiety, mood changes and low self-esteem.
PCOS can also cause, or contribute to, some serious health conditions including:
- type 2 diabetes
- high cholesterol
- heart disease
- endometrial cancer
- sleep apnoea
- sexual health problems.
What causes PCOS?
We don’t yet know precisely what causes PCOS. Some of the suspected culprits are:
- genetics
- higher levels of hormones called androgens
- higher levels of insulin or insulin resistance.
These factors may overlap in people with PCOS, changing the pattern of symptoms and risks.
How is PCOS treated?
We don’t yet have a cure for PCOS. And the best management of PCOS will depend on the kind of symptoms you have.
Some treatment options include:
- Medicines that to help manage:
- period problems
- fertility
- excess hair
- weight gain.
- Getting active and eating well can improve PCOS symptoms, and the reduce risk of complications.
- Cosmetic treatments for skin and hair problems.
What should I do if I think I have PCOS?
If you think you have PCOS, or if you are concerned about irregular patterns of bleeding, Venus Women’s Clinics can help. We offer evidence-backed quality diagnosis and management of PCOS and its symptoms. Put your health first with the caring and compassionate health professionals at Venus Women’s Clinics.
NOTE: While it is reviewed for clinical accuracy, the content on the Venus Women’s Clinic website does not replace professional advice. This information should not be used as an alternative to professional healthcare. If you have a particular medical problem, please consult a doctor or a specialist.
