Polycystic Ovarian
Syndrome
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS, polycystic ovary
syndrome) is a relatively common hormonal disorder that causes a number of
different symptoms in women of reproductive age. Common to all women with PCOS
is an irregularity in the menstrual cycle and the presence of excess male
hormones (androgens).
The condition was named because of the finding of enlarged
ovaries containing multiple small cysts (polycystic ovaries). Although most
women with PCOS have polycystic ovaries, some affected women do not. PCOS has
also been referred to as Stein-Leventhal syndrome and polycystic ovarian
disease (PCOD).
Symptoms
PCOS leads to disruptions in the menstrual cycle that
typically begin around the onset of puberty. The menstrual irregularities of
PCOS are accompanied by a lack of ovulation, so affected women may experience
infertility.
An increase in the production of androgens (male hormones)
by the ovaries in PCOS may lead to excess hair growth in areas suggesting a
male pattern, known as hirsutism. Thick, pigmented hair growth occurs on the
upper lip, chin, around the nipples, and on the lower abdomen.
Because of the absence or reduction in ovulation, women with
PCOS have reduced levels of the hormone progesterone. This can result in growth
stimulation of the endometrium, leading
to dysfunctional uterine bleeding and breakthrough bleeding. Increased
stimulation of the endometrium in the absence of progesterone production is a
risk factor for the development of endometrial hyperplasia and uterine cancer.
Insulin resistance, weight gain, and obesity are also common
in PCOS. Observers have suggested that about one-half of women with PCOS are
obese. Insulin resistance, accompanied by elevated blood levels of insulin,
occurs in most women with PCOS, independent of the presence of obesity.
For more information regarding the session on Gynecology Congress 2020 at San Francisco during April 27-29, 2020
Email: gynecologycongress@frontierscongress.com
No comments:
Post a Comment