PCOS
PCOS, which is also referred to as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, is a condition that caused by an overproduction of androgens or male hormones. It can cause a woman to have irregular menstrual cycles and make it difficult for her to bear children. PCOS is fairly common among females of child-bearing age. It is estimated that anywhere from 5% to 10% of the population have this condition. Some symptoms of this condition include: irregular menstrual cycles, acne, excessive hair growth and weight gain.
Women who have PCOS are at increased risk of developing more serious health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes. This can be a very frustrating condition to have, but fortunately it can be treated with lifestyle modifications and medications.
Being overweight can cause or worsen PCOS. Additionally, overweight women with PCOS are at an increased risk of developing a condition called insulin resistance, which can lead to diabetes. Women who lose as little as ten or fifteen pounds can begin to have regular menstrual cycles. Eating a diet that is filled with fruits, vegetables and whole grains can help a woman lose weight. Exercise everyday for at least 30 minutes can also help a woman lose weight. It is also important to note that exercising and eating a healthy diet can also reduce a woman’s chances of developing PCOS-related complications.
If a woman is not trying to conceive, her doctor may also prescribe birth control pills. Birth Control Pills can help reduce some of the symptoms of PCOS such as acne and excessive hair growth. PCOS does affect fertility, but many women are able to become pregnant with fertility treatments. One of the most commonly prescribed medications is Clomid, which helps trigger ovulation. Metformin, which is a medication that is prescribed to treat diabetes, can also help a woman become pregnant.
From the Web
