Polycystic ovary syndrome (say
"pah-lee-SIS-tik OH-vuh-ree SIN-drohm") is a problem in which a
woman's hormones are out of balance It can cause
problems with your periods and make it difficult to get
pregnant. PCOS also may
cause unwanted changes in the way you look. If it isn't treated, over time it
can lead to serious health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease.
Symptoms
Symptoms tend to be mild
at first. You may have only a few symptoms or a lot of them. The most common
symptoms are:
· * Acne.
· * Weight gain and trouble losing weight.
· * Extra hair on the face and body. Often women get
thicker and darker facial hair and more hair on the chest, belly, and back.
· *Thinning hair on the scalp.
· *Irregular periods. Often women with PCOS have fewer than nine
periods a year. Some women have no periods. Others have very heavy bleeding.
· *Fertility problems. Many women who have PCOS have trouble getting
pregnant (infertility).
·
Depression.
Causes
The cause of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is not fully understood, but
genetics may be a factor.
PCOS
problems are caused by hormone changes. One hormone change triggers another,
which changes another.
Home Treatment
Home treatment can help you
manage the symptoms of polycystic
ovary syndrome (PCOS) and live a
healthy life.
Healthy
eating and exercise
Eat a balanced
diet. A diet
that includes lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy
products supplies your body's nutritional needs, satisfies your hunger, and
decreases your cravings. And a healthy diet makes you feel better and have more
energy.
You may see a registered
dietitian who has special knowledge about diabetes.
Make physical activity a regular and essential part of your life. Choose fitness activities that are
right for you to help boost your motivation. Walking is one of the best
activities. Having a walking or exercise partner
that you can count on can also be a great way to stay active. For more
information, see the topic Fitness.
Don't smoke
If you smoke, consider quitting. Women who smoke have higher
levels of androgens than women who don't smoke.Smoking also increases the risk for heart disease.