by Micah Reeves

Created on: October 27, 2007

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that is considered to be one of the foremost reasons for infertility in women. It can occur in both young and older women, including after menopause. Younger women are affected the most. The exact cause is unknown but higher insulin production seems to be a common theme amongst women who have this disorder.

Common Symptoms of PCOS according to Wikipedia.org are:

1. Irregular, few, or absent menstrual cycles that do occur, may be heavy (heavy bleeding is also an early warning sign of Endometrial Cancer (in post menopausal women), for which women with PCOS are at slightly higher risk).

2. Infertility, generally resulting from lack of ovulation.

3. Unwanted body hair, typically in a male pattern affecting face, chest and legs.

4. Pain during sexual intercourse.

5. Male-pattern baldness.

6. Oily skin and Acne.

7. Dark patches of skin tan to dark brown or black, which are a sign of Insulin resistance, which is associated with PCOS.

8. Tiny flaps of skin, also known as "skin tags".

9. Prolonged periods of bloating, mood swings, pelvic pain and backaches (Premenstrual Stress Syndrome)

A known cure is not available but treatment can help. Without treatment, infertility can result. Doctors can treat the acne and may prescribe birth control pills to regulate menstrual periods. If skin problems are severe a dermatologist can be recommended. Since women are with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (also known as Stein-Leventhal Syndrome) are at a greater risk for cancer, high blood pressure and Diabetes, blood tests may be taken to determine if any of those medical conditions exist. Obesity is usually treated with nutrition counseling, and a food and exercise plan. Sometimes simply changing your diet and being active can take care of the symptoms. If Diabetes is found, your doctor will take care of proper treatment.

Another way to treat this disorder is to have an ultrasound done to see if the cysts are visible. Your doctor may want to do a laproscopy, which is an outpatient procedure where a small camera is inserted through the abdomen. By doing this, your doctor can look for cysts and this can also be the best way to see how severe or minor the disorder is with each individual. If cysts are visible, the doctor can remove them with a laser if needed.

When a diagnosis has made and treatment is available for women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, the chances for a healthy pregnancy and healthy child go up immensely.

Sources:
http://www.medicinenet.com/polycys tic_ovary/article.htm
Wikipedia.org
http://www.medicin enet.com/polycystic_ovary/page3.htm

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