Polycystic ovarian disease, also called polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), is a condition affecting hormone levels in women. Anovulation is common, so infertility is an issue. Depending on the extent of polycystic ovarian syndrome, women may experience hirsutism, or unusual hairiness, including excessive hair growth on the upper lip. While the cause of polycystic ovarian syndrome is uncertain, several factors may influence the development of this syndrome.
Androgens
Luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone are largely responsible for the normal menstrual cycle. The timing and amount of hormone release dictates the growth, maturity and release of eggs. An excess of androgens, or male hormones, cause luteinizing and follicle stimulating hormone production in abnormal amounts, and ovulation may occur rarely or not at all. Menstruation may also be irregular in timing and length.
Obesity
There is a strong correlation between polycystic ovarian syndrome and obesity. Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome who lose weight often show improvements and fertility returns. This may be due to fat tissue's ability to store estrogen. Obesity is also linked with increased androgen, or male hormone, levels.
Insulin
High insulin levels are an indicator of insulin resistance. With insulin resistance, high blood sugar occurs. This can develop into diabetes. Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome who have been treated for insulin resistance or diabetes have shown improvement in the regulation of their menstrual cycles and fertility. High levels of insulin may promote polycystic ovarian syndrome by affecting other endocrine organs influencing female and male hormone production.
Genetics
There is no firm correlation between genetics and the development of polycystic ovarian syndrome. However, women with this syndrome often have a relative, usually a mother or sister, who also has polycystic ovarian syndrome. The genetic possibility may be overshadowed by lifestyle. Diet and exercise are often learned habits. A poor diet may contribute to insulin resistance and diabetes. Obesity is usually the result of excess calorie intake.
Treatment
In most women, the causes of polycystic ovarian syndrome are closely linked and most of them are prevalent. In many women, losing weight will increase health and fertility. For those whose syndrome stems from abnormal endocrine function, hormone therapy may be necessary. If diabetes or insulin resistance is the cause, appropriate treatment promoting the normal production of insulin or providing insulin, if needed, will often lessen the symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome.
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