It’s difficult to tell if you have polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) on your own unless you know exactly what to look for. Let us get a better understanding of PCOS and how you may get it.
While the direct cause of PCOS is unknown, it is thought to be related to abnormal hormone levels. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas to control the amount of sugar in the blood. High levels of insulin can cause the ovaries to produce too much testosterone, which interferes with the development of follicles and can disrupt ovulation.
PCOS may also be hereditary. If you find that you have a history of women in your family with the condition, the risk of developing it is often increased. While a direct genetic link has not yet been made, the increasing likelihood suggests that there may be a genetic link.
According to an excerpt taken from healthline.com, here are a few symptoms that you can look out for:
Irregular periods
A lack of ovulation prevents the uterine lining from shedding every month. Some women with PCOS get fewer than eight periods a year.
Heavy bleedings
The uterine lining builds up for a longer period of time, so the periods you do get can be heavier than normal.
Hair growth
More than 70 per cent of women with this condition grow hair on their face and body — including on their back, belly, and chest. Excess hair growth is called hirsutism.
Acne
Male hormones can make the skin oilier than usual and cause breakouts on areas like the face, chest, and upper back.
Weight gain
Up to 80 per cent of women with PCOS are overweight or obese.
Male-pattern baldness
Hair on the scalp gets thinner and fall out.
Darkening of the skin
Dark patches of skin can form in body creases like those on the neck, in the groin, and under the breasts.
Headaches
Hormone changes can trigger headaches in some women.