Understanding PCOS

Knowing an ailment's cause is often the first step towards finding a remedying. But in the case of Poly-cystic Ovarian Syndrome, it becomes difficult as the exact cause of this disorder is not yet known. However, let's take a quick look at some common conditions that are believed to be associated with it:

Hormonal imbalance:
PCOS is closely linked to the over and under production of some specific hormones. All women produce androgens, the male hormone in small quantities. But when a woman suffers from this condition the ovaries produce this hormone in higher quantities. This increased level of androgen interferes with ovulation (production of eggs in the ovaries) which leads to further imbalance in the female reproductive cycle. Most women affected also have a high level of luteinising hormone; the hormone which stimulates ovulation. Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) is also found to be low in patients; particularly in overweight or obese women.

Insulin resistance:
This is a condition where the body produces excessive amounts of insulin to fight the resistance of the body tissues to insulin. This extra insulin leads to excessive production of androgen, the male hormone. Research shows that many women with this syndrome also have insulin resistance.

Genetics:
Many experts feel that genetics, family history is a common culprit in this increased production of androgen. Research has shown that in many cases PCOS runs in families. So a woman with this malady is likely to have someone in either, or both her mother's or father's family with the same disorder. However, the exact genes responsible for this disorder have not been identified.

The imbalances and irregularities in the body functions of women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome pose some serious health risks. These women are at an increased risk of developing more serious health problems. Though not all women with this condition get these problems, it is important to understand the consequences and take preventive measure wherever possible. Let's talk about some of the more obvious conditions:

Regular menstrual periods help shed the endometrial build up in the uterus of women. Many patients, due to irregularity or inadequacy of menstrual bleeding the endometrial lining is not shed properly leading to excessive buildup. This increases the risk of developing endometrial cancer.

These women are at high risk of developing diabetes. Research has shown that around 40% of women with PCOS develop some form of insulin intolerance or diabetes by the age of 40.

Increased levels of testosterone (one of the androgens) can disturb the lipid profile in patients. This can have adverse effects on the fat levels in the bloodstream and the HDL (good cholesterol) level can decrease while the LDL (bad cholesterol) level can go up. Also, many women with this condition are already suffering from mild to severe obesity. Both these conditions increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Women with PCOS have high levels of testosterone. This condition along with the other associated factors has shown to increase their risk of developing sleep apnea (obstructive breathing while sleeping).

Understanding the conditions and risks associated with PCOS is vital to maintaining the health of a patient with this condition. It is imperative in treating the disorder and can be of help in taking measures to avoid the greater health risks that might develop as a result.