POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME
In PCOS, the ovaries do not work normally and produce too much testosterone. Testosterone is called a “male hormone,” but all people have some testosterone. Normally the ovaries produce very small amounts, but in PCOS, they make more.
About once a month, the ovaries are supposed to make a structure called a “follicle” (figure 1). As the follicle grows, it makes hormones. Then, it releases an egg. This is called “ovulation.” But in people with PCOS, the ovary makes many small follicles instead of one big one. Hormone levels can get out of balance. And ovulation doesn’t happen every month the way it is supposed to. Doctors aren’t sure why this happens in some cases.
Symptoms can include:
- Having fewer than 8 periods a year
- Growing thick, dark hair on the upper lip, chin, sideburn area, chest, or belly
- Acne (oily skin and pimples on their face)
- Hair loss from the head
- Trouble getting pregnant without medical help
- Weight gain and obesity (although not everyone with PCOS has this problem)
Yes. PCOS increases your risk of other health problems, including:
- Diabetes (high blood sugar)
- High cholesterol levels
- Sleep apnea, a sleep disorder that causes people to briefly stop breathing while they sleep
- Depression or anxiety
- Eating disorders, such as binge eating or bulimia
- Losing interest in sex
Your doctor or nurse will decide which tests you should have based on your age, symptoms, and individual situation. Possible tests include:
- Blood tests to measure levels of hormones, blood sugar, and cholesterol
- A pregnancy test if you have missed any periods
- Pelvic ultrasound – This test uses sound waves to make a picture of your uterus and ovaries. Doctors sometimes use this test to help figure out if you have polycystic ovaries.
Yes. If you are overweight or have obesity, losing weight can improve many of your symptoms. Losing just 5 percent of your body weight can help a lot. As an example, for a person who weighs 200 pounds, this would mean 10 pounds of weight loss.
Most people with PCOS are able to get pregnant, but it is usually easier for those who are not overweight. If you are overweight, losing weight can help make your periods more regular and improve your chances of getting pregnant. If you lose weight but your periods are still irregular, your doctor can give you medicines to help you ovulate and improve your chances of getting pregnant.
It is possible to live a full and normal life with PCOS. But it is important to see a doctor. Treatments will help your symptoms and protect you from other diseases.
It’s also important to talk to your doctor or nurse if you feel depressed or anxious, think you might have an eating disorder, or have problems with sex. There are treatments that can help with these problems, too.
