Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a problem that affects a large number of women. This syndrome can affect a woman’s ability to have children, her menstrual cycle, and even her appearance. In addition to this, her hormones, blood vessels, and even her heart are affected. Women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome complain of irregular periods. In addition they have problems with acne and often display oily skin. These women have small cysts, sacs filled with fluid, in their ovaries. The actual cause of polycystic ovary syndrome is not known; though it is believed that more than one factor could be responsible for it. Genes are believed to be one important factor and most women who have polycystic ovary syndrome have someone else in their family who suffers from the same complaint. Women who have polycystic ovary syndrome have a problem with insulin since their bodies are unable to use it. This results in excessive quantities of insulin in the body, which in turn increases the amount of androgen in the body. When women have high levels of androgen, they find that they tend to gain weight, have excessive growth of hair, and also experience problems with ovulation. In addition to irregular periods, these women also have very heavy periods. Alopecia, or the thinning of hair on the head, is another symptom noticed in women suffering from this condition. High blood pressure and high cholesterol are other indications of this condition.

There is no real treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome, and for this reason, each woman has to be treated according to her symptoms. Most women who suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome are overweight, and therefore weight management is one of the first things to do when treating this condition. In addition an overall healthy lifestyle can certainly help a woman suffering from this problem. Eating healthy foods and avoiding fatty foods helps; processed foods should also be avoided, as should food with a lot of sugar. Eating lean meats and fewer processed foods can help improve the body’s use of the insulin. This in turn can actually help normalize the levels of hormones in the woman’s body. Weight loss also helps regulate menstrual cycles, making them more regular. Some women may also be prescribed medication to help improve their condition, especially for managing insulin levels. Infertility may also be treated with medication, but this treatment varies from one woman to another.