Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition that affects around 20% of the female population on a global level. It is a hormonal disorder that primarily affects the reproductive system and can cause a wide range of symptoms. PCOS affects women of all ages, but it is most commonly diagnosed in women between the ages of 15 and 44. It was one of the main reasons for infertility in women as many patients struggle to conceive with PCOS. It can also lead to many other health complications, increasing the risk of chronic endocrine disorders like gestational diabete and type 2 diabetes in women.
One of the most common and primary symptoms of PCOS is changes in the menstrual cycle resulting in irregular periods. Women with PCOS may have periods that are longer or shorter than usual, or they may miss periods altogether. This is because PCOS can cause the ovaries to produce too much androgen, which can interfere with ovulation. They may also experience very light periods. On the contrary, some women with PCOS also report having heavier bleeding during their periods. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to talk to your doctor, and do a detailed checkup based on their advice.
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Another common symptom of PCOS is unintentional weight gain along with belly fat. A vast majority of women with PCOS experience unwanted weight gain, especially in the abdomen and find it difficult to lose weight, even with a healthy diet and exercise routine. This is because PCOS can cause insulin resistance, which can lead to weight gain and difficulty losing weight. If you are struggling with weight gain, it can be a sign that you have PCOS and you should consult with a doctor and seek help to manage this symptom. Obesity is the root cause of many chronic disorders and maintaining a healthy weight is a must for good health and well-being.
PCOS can also cause acne and other skin problems. Women with PCOS may experience acne, oily skin, or other skin problems due to the excess androgen in their bodies. Hair loss or excessive body hair growth is another symptom of PCOS. Women with PCOS may experience hair loss on their scalp or excessive hair growth on their face, chest, or other parts of their body. This can be frustrating and can impact your self-esteem, but there are treatments available to help manage these symptoms. Skincare treatments, hair growth treatments and laser hair removal to get rid of the body hair can be considered after talking to a specialist.
Now, another common symptom which often gets ignored is mental health problems. Women with PCOS may experience anxiety, depression, or severe mood swings due to the hormonal fluctuations happening in your body. Such symptoms are often underplayed until they get worse affecting your life as a whole. It is important to talk to your doctor about any mental health symptoms you may be experiencing, as they can recommend treatments and resources to help manage these symptoms.
In conclusion, we can see that PCOS can mess with your reproductive health, your weight, your skin, your hair, and your mental health. Hence, if you are experiencing any of the symptoms linked with PCOS, it is important to get yourself checked and consult with a specialist without any delay. Your doctor can recommend lifestyle changes, medications, and other treatments to help you manage your symptoms and improve your overall health and well-being. Don’t hesitate to speak up and get help if you are experiencing any PCOS symptoms.