Spotlight On: All You Need To Know About Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Over the last number of months, we’ve certainly learned a thing or two about the wide range of contraceptives that are available on the market today. Now, we are going to continue our focus on health by studying a wide range of different illnesses and ailments. Last week, we focused on thrush, this week we will be focusing on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). ----------------------------------------------------------------- What is it? Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a quite common condition that affects how a woman’s ovaries work. Polycystic ovaries contain a large number of harmless cysts. Theses cysts are under-developed sacs in which eggs develop. Often, these sacs are unable to release an egg, thus ovulation does not take place. Another key feature of PCOS includes having high levels of ‘male hormones’ called androgens in your body. How do you get it? You will usually be diagnosed if you have at least two of the above features. The exact cause of it is unknown but it often runs in families. What are the symptoms? The main symptoms of PCOS usually become apparent during your late teens and twenties. These can include: irregular periods, no periods at all, difficulty getting pregnant (due to irregular nature of ovulation), excessive hair growth (usually on the face, chest, back or buttocks), and weight gain, thinning hair or hair loss and oily skin/acne. Does it cause any complications? POCS it also associated with an increased risk of other problems in later life including type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol levels. How is it treated? There is no cure for PCOS but it can be treated. If you have PCOS and you are overweight, losing wright and eating healthier will help reduce some of the symptoms. There are also medications available to help treat the symptoms including irregular periods and hair growth. If you are not trying to get pregnant, your doctor may talk to you about going on the Oral Contraceptive Pill in an attempt to correct the hormonal imbalance. How do I tested? Pay a visit to your GP if you think you may have any of these symptoms or you are worried that you may have PCOS.