What is polycystic ovary syndrome?
Polycystic ovary syndrome, also known as PCOS for short, is a hormone disorder that affects approximately 5-10 percent of women every year. One of the well-known characteristics of the disorder is the growth of multiple cysts in the ovary and physical features, such as excess hair growth and obesity. Because it affects the ovary, a female reproductive organ responsible for releasing the eggs each month (called ovulation), PCOS could make it difficult for a woman to get pregnant. It is also one of the leading causes of infertility. Yet, only about 30% of women with PCOS get a proper diagnosis of the disorder.
Can polycystic ovary syndrome go away on its own?
Unfortunately, PCOS does not go away on its own, and it requires medical attention to treat it. Although currently, it is a lifelong condition with no cure, it is highly treatable with the right medications and lifestyle management.
Can I get pregnant with polycystic ovary syndrome?
Yes, it is still possible to become pregnant with polycystic ovary syndrome. Although some women with PCOS may have a more difficult time getting pregnant, discussing the personalized treatment options to increase fertility and getting the right care could increase the chances of pregnancy.
Does having PCOS increase the likelihood of having other health problems?
Yes, a person with PCOS seems to have a higher risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, high levels of “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and low levels of “good” cholesterol (HDL), sleep apnea, obesity, and endometrial cancer.
Home remedies for PCOS?
Diet and exercise can help treat some symptoms of PCOS, such as irregular periods and obesity. For example, studies show that losing at least 10% of your weight can help regulate periods and lose weight, which in turn improve insulin and cholesterol levels.
Causes
What causes polycystic ovary syndrome?
The exact cause of polycystic ovary syndrome is not known. Doctors and researchers believe one of the main causes of polycystic ovary syndrome is the higher levels of male hormones (androgen) found in women’s bodies that prevent the release of eggs. In addition, genetics and insulin resistance have been found to be correlated to PCOS.
Genes: PCOS tends to run in families. If someone in your family has PCOS, it increases the chances of you developing PCOS as well.
Insulin resistance: more than half of women with PCOS have been shown to have insulin resistance. This could be harmful to the body because the cells do not respond to insulin, which can lead to high blood sugar levels. This could ultimately result in a person developing Type 2 Diabetes in the future.
What are the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome?
The symptoms could vary from person to person. However, here are the most commonly reported symptoms of PCOS:
How is polycystic ovary syndrome diagnosed?
Your doctor may do one or more of the following:
How is polycystic ovary syndrome treated?
Despite the lack of cure for this disorder, polycystic ovary syndrome is easily treatable. Here are a few of the treatment options for women with PCOS.
Office on Women’s Health. (2019, April 1). Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/polycystic-ovary-syndrome
Watson, S. (2021, April 19). Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/polycystic-ovary-disease#diet-and-lifestyle
Medically reviewed by:
Dr. Jodi Nagelberg is an endocrinologist, with board certification in Internal Medicine. She also holds a masters in Health Administration and Policy. She joins TeleMed2U as Endocrinology Director and supports our mission to increase access to healthcare for patients everywhere.
Postgraduate: University of Southern California Sol Price School of Public Policy Los Angeles, CA Masters, Health Administration and Policy, 2011
