PCOS or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is one of the most common causes of female infertility. Ladies may also notice increased hair growth, severe acne, obesity, and irregular menstrual cycles.
While the exact cause of PCOS remains unknown, it is clear that insulin resistance and increased levels of androgens are factors that play a large role.
Insulin resistance, is a condition where the body does not respond appropriately to the effects of insulin and results in increased levels of glucose. This will cause diabetes if left untreated. The elevated levels of insulin are also responsible for an increased appetite and can lead to other hormonal imbalances.
When increased levels of androgens are produced, ovaries may not be able to ovulate (release an egg) each month. In turn, the irregular menstrual cycles can cause infertility, as well as the development of small cysts on the ovaries. In the long term, women with PCOS are at high risk for Type 2 Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease and Endometrial Hyperplasia, which can lead to Endometrial Cancer.
Luckily, at Preferred Gynecology, we can tailor many treatment options to each individual patient based on their individual complaints.
