What is polycystic ovarian syndrome?
Polycystic ovarian syndrome is also known by the abbreviation PCOS and is a hormonal problem that affects approximately 5 percent of women. It shows no geographical bias and is the most common hormonal problem among females who are of reproductive age. It is also a major cause of infertility. It is caused by an excess of androgen production, which is a hormone that counteracts normal female fertility. It can also cause irregular and infrequent menstrual periods.
Health Problems Directly Related to PCOS
Many of the main health risks associated with PCOS are directly related to the disorder itself. Excessive androgen production disrupts the body's natural hormonal cycle, which can cause irregular menstrual cycles. Because the natural cycle is already altered, menstrual periods can be particularly heavy and cause anemia. The hormonal imbalance can also cause hirsutism, which is excessive hairiness. This can also cause hair loss on the top of the head.
Other Risks of PCOS
PCOS and the hormonal imbalance associated with it carries a number of health risks. One out of every two women with PCOS are clinically obese. They are also more likely to suffer from depression. PCOS is also linked to a higher risk of endometrial (uterine cancer), due to an overaccumulation of uterine tissue. Possibly related to the increased risk of obesity is an increased risk of type II diabetes and high blood pressure. All of these risks combined also increase the risk cardiovascular disease, such as atherosclerosis and heart attacks, as well as an increased risk of stroke.
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