Polycystic ovary syndrome is one of the ailments women face. In this disorder, the frequency of which has increased recently, due to hormonal problems, menstruation occurs at long intervals or not at all. This disorder, also known as PCOS or PCOS, is due to the increase of androgen hormone in the body. The increase in this hormone also brings about problems such as hair growth, acne, hair loss and oiliness in women.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
PCOS, which occurs with the formation of many small and benign cysts in the ovaries, It causes the body to secrete androgen hormone higher than it should be. Androgen hormone actually needs to be high in men. Increased androgen can cause infertility, hair growth, acne increase, weight gain and hair loss in women.
What are the Symptoms in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
Symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome are listed as follows;
-
Irregular menstrual cycle, especially delayed periods, changes in menstrual bleeding or no periods at all
-
Having difficulty in conceiving due to ovulation disorder - infertility,
-
Increased hair especially on the abdomen, chest and back (hirsutism),
-
Excessive weight gain, especially in the waist-hip region,
-
Thickening and darkening of the arms and legs,
-
Oil on the back, face and chest,
-
Male pattern hair loss,
-
Difficulty in losing weight,
-
Depressed mood,
-
Increased blood pressure – high blood pressure problem,
-
Thickening of the inner wall of the uterus,
-
Increased risk of uterine cancer in the future,
-
Snoring,
-
Sleep apnea,
-
Diabetes or heart diseases in the future.
What are the Causes of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
The cause of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is wondered by many people, but the cause is actually not known exactly. or. However, it is known that some factors create this situation in line with the researches. There are various mechanisms such as hormonal imbalance, insulin resistance and genetic inheritance that are suggested to play a role in the formation of PCOS.
It has been determined that one of the biggest causes of this disease is genetic predisposition. If the person's mother or sisters have PCOS, it can be said that it is more common in these people. However, there is no clear information that it will continue to be hereditary.
Effect of Increased Androgen Production in Polycystic Ovary
In the development of polycystic ovary syndrome, the increase in the production of ovarian-derived androgens constitutes the basic hormonal disorder. In particular, the hormone testosterone is produced much more than normal due to these imbalances. As a result, disturbances occur in the secretion of FSH and LH hormones produced in the pituitary gland and ovulation disorder occurs. Eggs do not crack because they are not fully mature.
Effect of Insulin Hormone in Polycystic Ovary
Insulin hormone produced by the pancreas regulates the glucose level in the blood. Insulin resistance is observed in women with PCOS. There is a strong relationship between PCOS and the body's insulin resistance. Increased insulin levels increase the body's production of androgens such as testosterone. It also increases androgen levels in the blood by decreasing the production of proteins that bind these hormones in the liver. This situation greatly disrupts the hormonal balance. Too much insulin also increases androgen. This creates a vicious circle.
Diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
There is no single test that will specifically diagnose polycystic ovary syndrome.
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a complex condition that is often diagnosed by the presence of two of the following three criteria: increased testosterone, menstrual irregularity, and polycystic ovary appearance on ultrasound.
The diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome At least two of them should be seen;
Polycystic Ovary Image in Ultrasound
Small small localized cysts occur around the ovaries, the size of which is between 8-10 mm.
Absence of Ovulation ( Anovulation)
The menstrual period of women with polycystic ovary syndrome is quite irregular. Delayed menstruation or no menstruation is frequently observed.
Chronic Hyperandrogenism
This is the overproduction of androgen hormones (testosterone, etc.). The presence of an increase in the blood value of these hormones or clinically increased androgen findings in laboratory tests meets this criterion.
Treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome Treatment is a multi-stage treatment.
The overall goal of treatment is to solve the problem of ovulation, lower androgen levels, reduce body weight, and reduce long-term health risks such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease for women who want to conceive.
The person's extensive medical history, such as weight change and menstrual cycle, is questioned. Then, the treatment is shaped according to the priorities and needs of the person. However, the first step of treatment is a healthy diet and exercise. In this way, people can stay at their ideal weight. Many women with this syndrome have problems such as overweight or obesity.
Eating Habits in Polycystic Ovary
It is important to change the eating habits to a large extent. Changes should be as follows;
-
Avoid processed foods,
-
Not to consume foods with added sugar,
-
To focus on cereal products,
-
Consumption of vegetables, fruits, low-fat or lean meats,
-
Taking supplements to keep blood sugar low.
Exercise
While exercise is important in every aspect of life, polycystic ovarian syndrome It is in a much more important place. When sports activities and exercises are done regularly, the use of insulin in the body becomes regular. It also helps to regulate the complaints brought about by PCOS.
Child Demand
Pharmaceutical treatments are also applied to these patients to stimulate ovulation. These treatments are applied especially for people who want children. In general, injection or oral drug treatments are preferred. Pregnancy fails with these treatments If so, in vitro fertilization can be applied.
Regulation of Menstrual Periods
Birth control pills are used for regular menstrual bleeding in women with polycystic ovary syndrome and to improve complaints such as acne and hair growth.
Skin and Hair Problems
Women with polycystic ovary syndrome may complain of acne and hair growth. In this sense, some drugs are given by doctors. Birth control pills may be recommended. However, alternative drugs are available for more resistant and advanced cases. It usually takes 3-5 months for the symptoms to decrease with medications. These drugs are also preferred to regulate hormones such as testosterone and androgens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Causes Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
PCOS is a serious problem It is an ailment that needs to be treated. If left untreated, secondary disorders such as fatty liver, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, depression, infertility, and sleep apnea may also occur. There is no cure for cure. In general, birth control pills regulate menstruation. It also helps regulate the side effects of PCOS. Diabetes drugs such as metformin regulate insulin levels and have positive effects in this disease.
Can I Get Pregnant in Polycystic Ovary?
Polycystic ovary syndrome causes infertility in every woman. Why not. In severe cases, infertility due to ovulation disorder may occur.
Read: 0
