Polycystic ovary syndrome is a disorder of multifactorial etiology, which affects women in the reproductive stage. Above all, because it is associated with the imbalance of androgen hormone levels. What makes the mature eggs are not released, increases the risk of infertility and there are alterations in the menstrual cycle.
In fact, the excessive increase in male hormones causes a woman’s ovulation cycle to be disturbed. Since, instead of developing eggs, cysts can occur, which increase in size. With the consequences, health problems, ranging from chronic abdominal pain, to the high risk of developing endometrial cancer.1
Increased androgen levels cause this syndrome
Although the exact causes of this pathology are still a matter of study. Research points to hormonal imbalance as the main element in this deficiency. In this way, it is also indicated that inheritance; environmental pollution; poor diet and obesity are elements that can be highlighted as risk factors.
Therefore, symptoms, such as irregular menstrual periods; pelvic pain and excess hair on the face, chest and abdomen. Like, weight gain, skin patches; hair loss on the head and acne breakouts; they become alarm signals, inviting regular medical check-ups. Especially because they can also be accompanied by blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol problems.2
- Thus, infertility is the main affectation that causes polycystic ovary syndrome in women. Since, in the absence or disorders in menstrual periods, the probability of getting pregnant is much lower. 3
- In the same way, skin problems may appear, generated by the hormonal disorder. Leading to present from annoying and unsightly speeds; in places not expected for women, such as the face. Even pathologies such as stubborn acne and acanthosis pigmentosa.
- Also, obesity; they have a cause and effect role in polycystic ovary syndrome. Because it is thought that the increase in insulin levels affects the excess production of androgens. 3
- Also, we see that this endocrine condition affects women psychologically. Generating dissatisfaction with their physical appearance; low self-esteem; anxiety and stress. In the same way, it increases the somatic conditions of the disease.4
Actually, the gynecologist, before making a diagnosis, will carry out an evaluation of each case. Since, you must take into account the medical history, the regularity in the menstrual periods and the physical appearance of the patient. Together, it will be supported by laboratory tests such as blood tests and pelvic ultrasound, to rule out other pathologies.
As a consequence, an action plan will be established, where the first recommendations will lead to improving the lifestyle. It is like this, where to maintain a healthy weight; cutting back on carbohydrates and being on the go is the ideal. Likewise, medications to regulate the menstrual cycle can be added to the treatment; help ovulate or decrease hair. Seeking to alleviate the symptoms; limit the production of androgens and especially, improve the quality of life.
References:
- Pardo Novak Antonio. The mystery of the Polycystic Ovaries. Rev. Cient Cienc Méd. [Internet] 2012 [citado 2021 Abr 30]; 15 (1): 26-28. Available in:
http://www.scielo.org.bo/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1817-74332012000100008&lng=es.
- Sir-Petermann Teresa, Maliqueo Y Manuel, Pérez-Bravo Francisco, Ángel B Bárbara, Carvajal P Fernando, del Solar P María Paz et al. Polycystic ovary syndrome: the importance of establishing its diagnosis. Rev. medic. chili [Internet]. 2001 Jul [citado 2021 Abr 30]; 129 (7): 805-812. Available in:
http://www.scielo.cl/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0034-98872001000700015&lng=es.
http://dx.doi.org/10.4067/S0034-98872001000700015.
- Ablan Candia Franklin. Pathophysiology of polycystic ovary syndrome. Rev. Obstet Gineco Venez [Internet]. 2016 Jun [citado 2021 Abr 30]; 76 (Suppl 1): S17-S24. Available in: http://ve.scielo.org/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0048-77322016000300005&lng=es.
- Gómez-Acosta César Andrés, Vinaccia Alpi Stefano, Quiceno Japcy Margarita. Polycystic ovary syndrome: psychological aspects. Rev. chil. obstet. gynecol. [Internet]. Aug 2015 [citado 2021 Abr 30]; 80 (4): 341-347. Available in:
http://www.scielo.cl/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0717-75262015000400010&lng=es.