What is PCOS?
1 in 10 of us have it, but what is it? It's a genetic, hormonal, metabolic and reproductive disorder caused by ovarian cysts. The problem is that 50% of women with PCOS go undiagnosed and, unfortunately, there is no cure. Symptoms can be controlled with certain contraceptive pills (consult your GP for the best one to suit you; everybody is different) or the hormonal coil. These methods suit different people so please be sure to consult your GP before you make a decision. Symptoms Women suffering from PCOS may suffer from some, all or none of the symptoms. More to the point, not all of the symptoms are strictly related to the syndrome and can be the cause of something else. Regardless, it's worth consulting your GP if you are experiencing any of the following: 1. Irregular periods or none at all (Women who have absent or infrequent periods - less than four a year - for many years have an increased risk of developing cancer of the womb lining. However, the chances are still small and can be controlled by using methods to control your periods. If you are experiencing particularly heavy periods, you should also seek the advice of a GP as it could be a symptom of PCOS). 2. Difficulty getting pregnant (PCOS is one of the most common causes of female infertility due to an irregular ovulation cycle. However, it's not impossible so please still be safe when having sex and consult a doctor if you're having problems conceiving). 3. Excessive hair growth (hirsutism) (This is caused by an excess of androgen, a male hormone. It's important to remember than not all women experience all of the symptoms. However, this can be tackled with hair removing methods such as shaving, waxing or lazer removal for a more permanent fixture). 4. Weight gain 5. Oily skin or acne (This can be controlled by maintaining a regular skincare routine that suits you. For more extreme cases, there are creams and medicines available by prescription. Remember that diet also plays an important part in your skincare routine so remember to drink as much water as you can. If you're anything like me, 6 pints of cider a night is doable, but 6 pints of water a day seems impossible. But remember the benefits and try to keep a glass of water around you to remind you). 6. Thinning hair Risks in Later Life 1. Type 2 Diabetes 2. Depression and Mood Swings 3. High Blood Pressure and High Cholesterol (This makes it more difficult to select the right contraceptive pill for you. Choosing the wrong one can actually increase your chances of high blood pressure which may ultimately result in a stroke. Please consult your doctor for the best option and don't be embarrassed to say if you are experiencing symptoms of PCOS. It could ultimately save your life). 4. Sleep apnoea (A condition that causes interrupted breathing when sleeping). Please consult a doctor if you are experiencing any of these symptoms. In many cases, symptoms can be controlled with the correct contraceptive pill or hormone coil. It may also provide peace of mind. Around 2 in every 10 women experience many of the symptoms without actually having PCOS so it's definitely worth getting checked out. A GP may suggest other causes for the symptoms, although in many cases, blood samples will be taken and you may be sent for an ultrasound to examine your ovaries. Your GP may then refer you to a specialist if they find a severe case of PCOS or if you're having problems with fertility.
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