Polycystic ovary syndrome:
It is a common health problem that affects women of childbearing age, and usually begins during adolescence. It is caused by an imbalance in reproductive hormones, and it is one of the most common causes of infertility that can be treated in women.
Causes:
The ovaries make an ovule, which is released every month as part of a healthy menstrual cycle. In the case of polycystic ovary syndrome, the ovule may not develop as it should or may not be released during ovulation as it should. The exact cause of polycystic ovary syndrome is unknown, but scientists believe several factors are involved including genetics:
- High levels of androgens (male hormones).
- Insulin resistance (a condition in which the body's cells do not respond to the effects of insulin).
Polycystic ovary and the menstrual cycle:
Polycystic ovary syndrome can cause irregular menstruation, which may lead to:
- Infertility, as polycystic ovary syndrome is one of the most common causes of infertility in women.
- Development of cysts (small fluid-filled sacs) in the ovaries.
Symptoms:
- Irregular or stopping menstrual cycle.
- Excessive hair on the face, chin, or other parts of the body.
- Hair thinning or hair loss in the scalp.
- Overweight, obesity, or difficulty losing weight.
- Acne appears on the face, chest and upper back.
- Fertility problems (difficulty getting pregnant).
Pregnancy and polycystic ovary syndrome:
The doctor can discuss ways to help ovulation and increase the chances of pregnancy.
Polycystic ovary syndrome and health problems:
Women with polycystic ovary syndrome are more likely to have health problems, especially if they are overweight, including the following:
- Diabetes.
- Diabetes during pregnancy (gestational diabetes).
- High blood pressure.
- High cholesterol levels.
- Heart disease.
- Sleep Apnea.
- Depression and anxiety.
- Endometrial cancer.
- Heart attack.
Treatment:
There is no cure for polycystic ovary syndrome, but symptoms can be controlled. The doctor will work on a treatment plan based on the symptoms, plans to have children, and the risk of long-term health problems (such as diabetes and heart disease). Treatment methods include:
- Changing lifestyle by:
- Losing excess weight, as losing weight by only 5% can lead to a significant improvement in the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome.
- Follow a healthy diet aimed at losing weight.
- Exercising regularly, which also contributes to reducing weight and preventing anxiety and depression.
2.Medications that treat the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (such as: acne and excessive hair growth) and include the following:
- Birth control pills to stimulate regular menstruation and reduce levels of male hormones.
- Medications that increase insulin stimulation (metformin), which works to improve the body’s response to insulin, leading to improved weight loss and lowering cholesterol levels.
3. Medicines to treat infertility and improve the ability to reproduce (such as: ovulation stimulants).
Guidelines for women with polycystic ovary syndrome:
- Weight loss: Healthy eating habits and regular physical activity can help relieve symptoms associated with polycystic ovary syndrome.
The risk of problems during pregnancy can be reduced by:
- Reaching a healthy weight before pregnancy.
- Reaching normal blood sugar levels before pregnancy.