Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is caused by hormonal imbalances of a woman’s sex hormones, which prevents the body’s process of producing and releasing eggs from the ovary. Women with PCOS have an inappropriate production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) that results in limited egg development and an increase in typically male hormones (androgens). This leads to the growth of ovarian cysts (benign masses on the ovaries).
Symptoms of PCOS
The symptoms of PCOS usually start soon after a woman begins to menstruate, but the symptoms vary from person to person.
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Heavy or absent periods
• Excess facial and body hair
• Deeper voice
• Thin hair
• Acne
• Weight gain
• Pelvic pain.
Cause of PCOS
The cause of PCOS is not completely understood. Doctors believe it is a hormonal imbalance in which genetics play a role. Woman are more likely to develop PCOS if their mother and sister also have the condition. Over production of the hormone androgen may be another factor. Androgen is a male sex hormone that women’s bodies produce. Women with PCOS often produce higher than normal levels of androgen, which affects the development and release of eggs during ovulation.
