What is PCOS? Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Art & Research: Sophia Zamudio
Further Reading Literature: Sophia Zamudio
What is PCOS? (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
What is PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a condition when the “ovaries produce excessive androgens (male sex hormones)” (Johns Hopkins Medicine). The name describes small cysts that form in the ovaries. These cysts that form on the outer edge of the ovary are “small fluid-filled cysts contain immature eggs. These are called follicles. The follicles fail to regularly release eggs” (Mayo Clinic).
What causes PCOS?
The cause of PCOS is unclear, though it may be due to “insulin level build up when there's insulin resistance”. When the pancreas produces insulin, “it allows cells to use sugar, your body's primary energy supply. If cells become resistant to the action of insulin, then blood sugar levels can go up. This can cause your body to make more insulin to try to bring down the blood sugar level” (Mayo Clinic). It also may be a genetic issue depending on one's family medical history.
What are the symptoms of PCOS?
Symptoms of PCOS include irregular periods, ovaries with cysts, excess body hair, weight gain, acne, infertility, development of excess skin, thinning hair, and dark skin patches
Available treatments for PCOS
Treatments for PCOS include change in diet and activity, medications, birth control pills, and diabetes medication (Insulin).