women s health issues
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Introduction
Polycystic ovary syndrome is characterized by irregular or no menstrual periods and often obesity or symptoms caused by high levels of male hormones (androgens), such as excess body hair and acne. Typically, women have irregular or no periods, and often, they are overweight or obese and develop acne and characteristics caused by male hormones such as excess body hair). Doctors often base the diagnosis on symptoms, but blood tests to measure hormone levels and ultrasonography may also be done. Exercise, weight loss and/or medications with estrogen plus a progestin may help reduce symptoms (including excess body hair) and restore hormone levels to normal. If women wish to become pregnant, losing weight and takingclomipheneand/ormetformin, may result in release of an egg (ovulation). Polycystic ovary syndrome affects about 5 to 10% of women. In the United States, it is the most common cause of infertility. This syndrome gets its name from the many fluid-filled sacs (cysts) that often develop in the ovaries, causing them to enlarge. Polycystic ovary syndrome is the most common cause of infertility in the United States. In many women with polycystic ovary syndrome, the body’s cells resist the effects ofinsulin(calledinsulinresistance or sometimes prediabetes).Insulinhelps sugar (glucose) pass into cells so that they can use it for energy. When cells resist its effects, sugar accumulates in the blood, and the pancreas produces moreinsulinto try to lower sugar levels in the blood. Ifinsulinresistance becomes moderate or severe, diabetes may develop. If women who have polycystic ovary syndrome and are overweight or obese become pregnant, their risk of complications during pregnancy is increased. These complications include Gestational diabetes (diabetes that develops during pregnancy), 