HEALTH POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME (PCOS)
is more likely a result of, rather than a cause of, ovarian dysfunction. In addition, one of the most consistent biochemical features of PCOS is a raised blood male hormone (testosterone). Insulin resistance is also associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Genes, insulin resistance, and inflammation have all been linked to excess male hormone (androgen) production.
What are the symptoms of PCOS? Symptoms include menstrual irregularity, excess hair growth, acne and obesity. Menstrual irregularities include abnormal menstruation, absence of menstruation, heavy menstruation, irregular menstruation, short and light menstruation, or spotting. High levels of male hormones prevent the ovaries from producing hormones in a balanced way and thus affecting maturation of eggs normally. This results in a peripheral ring of cysts measuring between 2mm-9mm and the cysts range from 9 to 20 cysts. The layer covering the ovary thickens thus preventing ovulation from taking place.
By Dr Abigael Jemedze
What is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)? PCOS is a problem with hormones that affects women during their childbearing years (ages 15 to 44). The cause of polycystic ovary syndrome isn’t well understood, but may involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The major features of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) include menstrual abnormalities and signs of excess male hormones. Although the exact cause of this condition is unclear, PCOS can result from abnormal function of the brain area responsible for periods and the ovary (hypothalamic-pituitaryovarian (HPO) axis). A key characteristic of PCOS is female hormonal imbalance, which www.viciouscollections.co.zw
Weight issues: obesity, overweight, or weight gain. Polycystic ovarian syndrome is linked to insulin resistance which subsequently results in weight gain. The weight is concentrated in the midsection (truncal obesity-belly fat) Skin: acne or oily skin. High level of male hormones free testosterone, contribute to acne from oily skin. Common also are subfertility /infertility, depression, loss of scalp hair, unwanted hair for example beard, leg hair, or virilization. Both hormonal changes
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VICIOUS COLLECTIONS MAGAZINE | Issue 03
