Many women unknowingly suffer from a condition called polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). They might assume that the symptoms they are experiencing are related to other conditions and because there are other health conditions that produce similar symptoms, PCOS can be misdiagnosed.
PCOS is a disease for which there is no cure. However, with a proper diagnosis, education and medical intervention may be started right away.
There are many symptoms and potential health conditions related to PCOS
PCOS symptoms tend to begin early in a woman’s life, as early as proceeding her first menstrual cycle. It is thought that it is the initial hormonal changes that trigger PCOS.[1] Symptoms may or may not be noticeable at that time, but they usually tend to progress during a woman’s lifetime. A young woman may not realize that she has PCOS during its beginning stages.
There are several telltale symptoms associated with PCOS. Not all symptoms may be present. However, if a woman experiences any of the following symptoms, it is strongly advised that she discuss her health care issues with her health care provider.
The following are common signs and symptoms associated with PCOS:
- Obesity;
- Depression;
- Weight gain;
- Sleep apnea;
- Miscarriages;
- Mood swings;
- Ovarian cysts;
- Insulin resistance;
- Heavy menstrual bleeding;
- Infertility due to anovulation;
- Skin discoloration and/or skin tags;
- Irregular or absent menstrual cycles; and/or
- An elevation of male hormones known as androgens, which can produce acne; hirsutism – excess hair on the face and/or body; and hair loss mimicking male-pattern baldness or alopecia. [2,3]
According to "Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) – What Happens" on WebMD, last accessed October 7, 2010, in addition to the above signs and symptoms for which a woman with PCOS may experience, she is also at an increased risk for several health conditions:
- Diabetes;
- Heart disease;
- Hypertension; or
- Cancer, such as endometrial cancer.[4]
Education is the key to understanding PCOS and possibly preventing potential complications
When a woman is diagnosed with this disease, it is strongly advised that she learn all that she can concerning PCOS. By educating herself, she will be better equipped with handling what might come her way. While it is true that many of the conditions and symptoms associated with this disease are linked together and cannot necessarily be prevented, women who are educated in this disease are able to begin taking a proactive approach to their health.
Disclaimer: The information provided herein is for educational purposes only. As always, women with any of the above symptoms, questions, or concerns should seek the help and advice of their health care provider.
Sources:
- Melissa Conrad Stoppler, "Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS, POS, POD, Stein-Leventhal Syndrome)," MedicineNet website (accessed October 7, 2010).[1,2]
- WebMD Website, "Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) – Symptoms" (accessed October 7, 2010).[3]
- WebMD Website, "Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) – What Happens" (accessed October 7, 2010).[4]
Sarah Mitchell - The author has had the love of the written word since she was a young child, and one could usually find her with a book between her hands. ...
