The PCOS is a condition that affects approximately 10-25% of all women. This is a
condition in which the ovaries produce an abnormal amount of androgens, male sex hormones that are usually present in women in small amounts.
Immature follicles line up as a small cysts
In the PCOS follicle formation is interrupted. Follicles only grow to a certain size and do not rupture to release an egg for ovulation. Instead, they line up in a ring as small cysts on the outside of the ovary. They are then visible on ultrasound as many small black dots and give their name to the syndrome polycystic ovaries. The more cysts there are in the ovary, the less space there is for new follicles to mature.
High male hormones are the cause of many symptoms of PCOS
Since follicle maturation (follicle growth) is impaired in the PCOS in the ovaries, there is a female sex hormone conversion disorder. Here, more male hormones, such as testosterone, are produced. These increased male hormones (androgens) cause unpopular symptoms in many women with PCOS
• Acne and oily skin
• Oily hair
• Fluff on upper lip and/or facial edges
• Excessive pubic hair that may reach the belly button
• Hair loss and "hair loss" on temples
• Irregular cycles or missed periods
• High blood sugar level
• Overweight or underweight
Insulin resistance can lead to weight gain
Due to hormonal imbalance, many women with polycystic ovary syndrome also suffer from obesity and often unexplained weight gain. The reason for this is often an underlying insulin resistance. This sugar metabolism disorder can lead to weight gain and make it particularly difficult to lose weight successfully. This is often a reason why women with PCOS are tired and exhausted. More often than you might think, polycystic ovary syndrome is accompanied by estrogen dominance. It also promotes weight gain. The female sex hormone estrogen promotes fat storage in the hips, legs and arms Women with PCOS therefore have an increased risk of contracting the following diseases:
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• heart disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• gestational diabetes
• Endometriosis
• Fatty liver (sequential diseases hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver)
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Sleep disorders
What causes the PCOS?
Causes of PCOS are still unexplored, but insulin resistance is thought to be in responsible party, since it occurs in 70% of women with PCOS syndrome and is often associated with obesity. It is assumed that genetic factors may play a role. The PCOS often affects women whose mother or sisters also suffer from it.
I look forward to sharing more information on PCOS diagnosis and treatment with you in a future post. To not miss my advice, subscribe to the page or subscribe to the newsletter. Also share my tips with your loved ones and share the blog link with them.
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