PCOS Coach

PCOS or polycystic ovarian syndrome is also known as PCO or PCOD. It was first diagnosed in 1935 as Stein-Leventhal syndrome. As many as 5-10% of all women suffer from PCOS. It is one of the most common hormonal abnormalities in women of all ethnic groups, with an even higher incidence in women and girls of Hispanic, Native American and East Asian descent. PCOS can be found in women from their teens to menopause. It is a leading cause of infertility.

Many doctors now call it "hyperandrogenic anovulation" because not all women with PCOS have ovarian cysts. Hyperandrogenic anovulation simply means that the body is producing too many androgens and that ovulation is not occurring normally. Androgens are often thought of as "male hormones." However, the female body turns androgens into estrogen a distinctly "female" hormone.

With PCOS the ovaries tend to produce slightly higher amounts of androgens. High insulin levels can also lead to higher androgen levels. These elevated levels of androgens can cause the ovaries to stop working properly. Instead of producing one large follicle that produces a mature egg each month, the small follicles or fluid filled sacs called cysts begin to develop. With too much androgen surrounding them, they stop developing. This leads to even more androgen production. Over time the ovaries become covered in these tiny half-developed follicles. This leads to the "string of pearls" or polycystic ovaries many women develop with PCOS. Your doctor may request an ultrasound to check for these tiny cysts.

Some doctors still see PCOS patients as "fat" women with no self control. Doctors often fail to diagnosis PCOS because they don't recognize the diverse set of symptoms as being part of one medical condition. Some doctors see it only as a "fertility issue" and tell their patients to "come back when you want to get pregnant." Infertility is a serious problem with PCOS. However, it is very important that PCOS patients be evaluated for several other health issues. Menstrual irregularity can lead to cancer if not treated. Appearance issues can lead to problems with self-esteem and depression. Women who suffer from weight problems and hair issues can be at particular risk. Finally, many women with PCOS have insulin/blood sugar problems, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Untreated these problems can lead to diabetes or heart disease.

Treatment may include changes in diet to reduce insulin resistance. An exercise program may lower cholesterol and improve the way the body handles insulin. There are a number of promising drugs available, such as metformin (Glucophage). Many women find that they feel better with low-estrogen birth control pills to regulate their periods. Other treatments focus on symptoms such as hair loss, facial hair reduction, weight control, and depression.

We don't know for sure what causes PCOS. There are indications that it has both genetic and environmental causes. Recent studies indicate that PCOS may be the result of chronic internal inflammation. Inflammation is also indicated as a cause of heart disease, asthma, arthritis, diabetes and many other illnesses we consider "lifestyle" illnesses. Many people still believe it is only a fertility problem. Unfortunately, PCOS can also lead to irregular periods, irregular bleeding, cancer of the uterus, excessive body or facial hair, acne, insulin resistance, diabetes, high cholesterol and even heart disease. Heart disease kills many more women than breast cancer so it is very important that women with PCOS get proper treatment.

The good news is that PCOS is very treatable. Treating PCOS is not easy, but good treatment can reduce your symptoms and reduce your risks of heart disease and other illnesses.

(c) Copyright 2004-2008 Julie Renee Holland. This site is for entertainment purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice. Please see a doctor.