Polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS is a medical illness affecting metabolic rates and hormonal imbalances. Although ovaries are mainly affected by the condition, it doesn't necessarily cause infertility,
Research shows that roughly 5-13% of women of reproductive age are affected by PCOS.
5 PCOS Myths Debunked
Despite the numerous studies and research surrounding women's health issues, there are numerous myths going around that may cause harm or further mental strain for women suffering from PCOS. Here are five myths below:
You Did Something to Cause PCOS
Although the causes of PCOS are still unknown, there are several factors that play a role in triggering PCOS. Genetics is widely believed as the prime suspect behind PCOS.
Androgen is a male hormone that controls the development of male traits. However, according to Justin Sloane, MD, a physician at Penn Ob/Gyn explains that although women produce tiny amounts of androgens, women with PCOS have been found to produce more androgen than normal which prevents ovulation and often leads to difficulties in menstrual cycles.
During this process, follicles grow but eggs are not released. Ovulation doesn't occur where the follicles may develop into cysts. When this happens the body may neglect to produce progesterone hormone that keeps the menstrual cycle regularly.
Dr. Sloane adds that women with PCOS tend to produce excess estrogen or female hormones. Despite these hormones not contributing to the symptoms, long-term unopposed estrogen may lead to a build-up in the lining of the uterus and increase risk factors for uterine cancer.
Scientists believe that insulin--another hormone-- may play a key role in increased androgen production in women. Researches found that women diagnosed with PCOS are insulin resistant.
This phenomenon is common in overweight or obese women, women with unhealthy exercise habits or diets, or those with a family history of type-2 diabetes.
Losing Weight Gets Rid of PCOS
Unfortunately, as of yet, there is no cure for PCOS. On the other hand, overweight and obese women can help their body's hormone balance by losing weight. Most treatments for PCOS are targeted towards alleviating the symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, acne, or hair growth,
Additionally, there is a wide range of treatment options that help prevent any potential complications that would pose higher health risks.
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PCOS is a Rare Medical Condition
There are an estimated 5-10% of American women of childbearing age are diagnosed with PCOS. This translates to roughly 5 million women, which makes PCOS one of the most common hormonal disorders in women of reproductive age.
On the other hand, the PCOS Foundation estimates that less only less than half of women with PCOS are diagnosed correctly, leaving millions of women unaware of their medical condition.
PCOS Leads to Infertility
PCOS and infertility don't always go hand-in-hand. Some have fertility problems due to the lack of stimulation during ovulation. The best way is to speak with a doctor regarding fertility treatment.
There is numerous fertility treatment for women with PCOS including medication to stimulate ovulation and in vitro fertilization.
Only Overweight Women are Affected with PCOS
It is true that obese or overweight women tend to have worse PCOS symptoms, but PCOS does not discriminate and can affect women of all shapes and sizes.
The relationship between PCOS and weight has something to do with the inability of the body to use insulin properly which may lead to weight gain. This is why regular exercise and healthy eating habits are often part of women's treatment plans.
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