Deciding to get pregnant is a big decision and one that’s possible even after getting your tubes tied. Learn how tubal ligation reversal works, and see if it’s an option for you and your family.
In addition to the female hormones estrogen and progesterone, the ovaries produce small amounts of male hormones. In some instances, the ovaries produce larger quantities of these chemicals, leading to a condition called polycystic ovary syndrome.
This condition affects one out of 15 women generally in their 20s or 30s, although in some cases the symptoms may begin in the teen years or as soon as a girl begins menstruating.
Medical professionals are still uncertain as to what the causes of PCOS are, but the condition is most likely genetic, passed down from mother to daughter.
The most common sign of PCOS in very young women is an infrequent menstrual period, or no period whatsoever. This can begin at the onset of puberty if a girl experiences one or two regular cycles, and then her periods go away entirely. The periods may return, but they will fluctuate between very light to extremely heavy. They may also last longer than 35 days or disappear completely for four or more months.
Adult women suffering from PCOS may discover their condition when they find that they are unable to get pregnant. This is usually coupled with excessive weight gain. The reason for fertility problems is due to the fact that increased levels of male hormones make it difficult for the ovaries to release eggs.
When diagnosing PCOS, doctors look for two of the three main symptoms:
Your doctor will likely perform a visual pelvic exam, a blood to check your hormone levels, and a vaginal ultrasound to seek out cysts on the ovaries.
Before your visit, it is recommended to keep a log of your symptoms, as well as a list of any medications or supplements you may be taking.
PCOS treatment plans usually include a balance of healthy eating and exercise along with hormone therapy and specific care for individual symptoms.
If you are showing any symptoms of PCOS, do not hesitate to contact a health care professional. If left untreated, PCOS can lead to high blood pressure and high cholesterol. An increase of male hormones in a woman's body will also hinder the use of insulin which raises blood sugar levels, putting you at a higher risk for developing diabetes.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Deciding to get pregnant is a big decision and one that’s possible even after getting your tubes tied. Learn how tubal ligation reversal works, and see if it’s an option for you and your family.
When it comes to aging skin, there are a variety of ways to approach the problem, and many don’t require surgery. Dermal fillers like Juvéderm can make a dramatic and immediate difference.
Female-factor fertility problems are often linked to ovulatory dysfunction, or ovulation that’s either irregular or that doesn’t occur at all. Find out what causes this all too common condition, and what you can do to overcome it.
Wrinkles are a natural part of aging, but can damage confidence and self-esteem nonetheless. Skin naturally sags, stretches and changes with age. But wrinkles, especially in people who are not elderly, can be unsightly and many people choose to seek...
Love handles? Saddlebags? No matter what you call excess fat, it has a major effect on your appearance. People frequently turn to liposuction as a way to contour their bodies and have a sexier, more youthful appearance.
Vulvodynia is a condition involving chronic vaginal pain. The pain is generally felt in the vulva and the urethra. However, the pain can be more specific to just one area, such as the vaginal opening (vestibule).