PCOS : Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME Polycystic ovaries are characterized by a large number of follicles that are up to 8mm. (approximately 0.3 inch) in size. The follicles are under-developed sacs in which eggs develop. In PCOS, these sacs are often unable to release an egg, which means that ovulation does not occur, resulting in no or irregular periods. Fig 1. Mechanism of PCOS It is a common condition that affects your hormones. The ovaries produce an abnormal amount of the hormone androgen, which is a male hormone and is only present in women in small amounts hence making the symptoms mentioned below, However, it is essential to note that many women are asymptomatic, that is they do not have any of the common symptoms. SYMPTOMS : The common symptoms include: 1. Excess body hair growth. 2. Weight changes and trouble losing weight 3. Ovarian cysts 4. Mood changes 5. Acne 6. Fatigue 7. Irregular or missed periods. CAUSES: * Genetic P