Understanding PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, commonly known as PCOS, is the most common reproductive endocrine disease among teens and young women. Roughly 5 to 10% of teens and young women are diagnosed with PCOS. The common symptoms include irregular periods, weight gain, acne, excess facial and body hair, patches of dark skin known as acanthosis nigricans, and impaired fertility.

When a woman or teen has PCOS, their ovaries may be enlarged and contain multiple follicles or “cysts,” hence the name polycystic. The multiple follicles rarely release an egg and as a result ovulation rarely occurs. (It is important to note that some women do not have enlarged ovaries, but still have PCOS.)

The main cause of PCOS is a hormonal imbalance. The hormones secreted by the pituitary gland affects the ovaries, affecting a woman’s ability to ovulate, which is the main reason behind the irregular periods and impaired fertility. Usually, a woman with PCOS will notice that her periods are either very close together or very far apart.

The hormone imbalance lies in too much luteinizing hormone, which is a hormone that signals a woman’s ovaries to make estrogen, and too much insulin, which is a hormone that signals a woman’s ovaries to create too much testosterone (also needed to complete the reproductive cycle.) 

A woman with PCOS creates too much of both hormones. The high levels of both hormones does not trigger the ovaries to release an egg. Usually it is the surge of the luteinizing hormone that signals the ovary to release an egg. However, if it’s already high, then the ovary rarely receives the signal.

There is no way to really combat PCOS. Characteristic of genetic features, fully understanding it is the best way to combat it or at least make it easier to live with. Because it is a hormone imbalance, the best way to address it is through proper diet and exercise. These can naturally balance a woman’s hormones. 

Apart from healthy living, the birth control pill can also help balance a woman’s hormones. It can also lessen some of the symptoms, such as excess hair, acne, and irregular periods. Other forms of hormonal therapy may be applied, or insulin therapy (to lower the insulin levels) can also be tried.  

The best course of action is to consult an OB GYN as soon as a woman notices that her periods have an irregularity. This tell-tale sign coupled by any of the other symptoms is enough for a doctor to check and see if PCOS needs to be addressed.