PCOS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, also known as PCOS, is a disorder that affects almost 10% of women around the world. It happens to women regardless or race and nationalities. PCOS is known to be the most common hormonal disorder among women, and can cause infertility to women who are reproductively active. The main symptoms that indicate Polycystic Ovary Syndrome include weight problems, irregular ovulation and menstruation and excessive androgenic hormones. Other than that, there are some minor symptoms include excessive head hair loss (and excessive hair in other places), acne & pimples formation, obesity and depression.

PCOS often goes hand in hand with another condition called Insulin Resistance - but it is not known which comes first, or whether one is a result of the other.

What are the risks after being diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome? Women will have a high chance of developing endometrial cancer, higher risk of getting Type II Diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, stroke, miscarriage and high blood pressure. These are quite dangerous, and life threatening. However, there are treatments available to treat PCOS. The treatments are tailored to suit different patient's needs. There are generally four categories: lowering the insulin levels, restoration of fertility, treatment of hirsutism and restoration of normal menstruation. PCOS can happen to any women regardless of age and it is advisable for all women to go for annual check ups with their gynaecologist to ensure early detection and treatment should you get infected with PCOS.