Cystic Ovarian Syndrome
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition related to the endocrine system, and characterized by small cysts formation in the ovaries. Until now, experts have not yet found the exact cause of this disease. However, in many occasions, women who suffer from PCOS have family members who also have the disease.
Abnormal insulin secretion is another condition linking to PCOS. When the system has developed insulin resistance, more insulin is needed to maintain the sugar levels in the blood. As a result, the insulin surplus induces the imbalance of hormone levels in the body.
Also, PCOS can develop because of too much production of androgens by the increased insulin levels or the luteinizing hormones secreted by the pituitary gland.
Cystic Ovarian Syndrome Symptoms
People suffering from cystic ovarian syndrome can manifest the following signs and symptoms:
- Abnormal menstrual cycle – Women with PCOS experience either too frequent menstruation or absence of this for a couple of months.
- Growth of tiny hairs on the face and other body areas can be experienced due to the androgen production and hormonal problems.
- Obesity is another symptom
- High blood pressure
- Elevated cholesterol levels
- Depression and mood problems
- Voice changes
- Oily skin and acne formation
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Treatment
The focus of treatment for women with polycystic ovarian syndrome is on the obesity, infertility, hair growth and acne, which include:
- Medications. Certain drugs are prescribed to help women suffering from PCOS to regulate their menstruation, such as low-dose contraceptive pills that have progesterone and estrogen. These help normalize the menstrual cycle and the ovulation as well as to reduce the production of androgen.
- If the cause is insulin resistance, an individual has to undergo treatment to lower the insulin levels in her blood. Medicines that help maintain insulin levels like Metformin can help control the insulin production and obesity.
- To treat the acne, birth control pills with anti-androgen and cypreterone acetate can be taken.
- To help reduce the excessive growth of hairs in the different body areas, anti-androgen drugs are as well taken to minimize the testosterone levels in the body.
- Other natural remedies include weight management. Women with PCOS often become overweight and it is difficult for them to lose weight because of the insulin resistance and excessive testosterone in the body. Thus, it is helpful that they follow a diet plan which controls carbohydrates intake.