Have you ever heard the word PCOS before? The meaning of the word is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Now let's look at what Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is and what it is not!
Nowadays, PCOS affects one out of ten women, and according to some diagnostic criteria, it may affect as many as one out of five. Even though it is a hormonal imbalance, this condition decreases women's fertility rates and can even lead to infertility.
Does this condition affect only women? If you said yes, you are correct. The reason is simple: men don't have ovaries, which PCOS affects. This condition is completely related to the ovaries. Due to hormonal imbalance, women may produce higher levels of male hormones such as testosterone, which can lead to symptoms including excessive hair growth, fat accumulation around the waist, acne, and hair loss. Despite these symptoms, most women don't realize they have this condition.
To understand PCOS, it is essential to have a basic knowledge of the female reproductive system. Healthy ovaries resemble large almonds and contain ovarian follicles inside. During the ovulation period, a certain amount of FSH is released. If there are many ovarian follicles, it is not enough for all of them to mature an egg. As a result, ovulation does not occur, the follicles cannot turn into the corpus luteum, and without the corpus luteum, progesterone is not produced — which can make periods irregular and even stop the menstrual cycle from completing.
When a lot of follicles accumulate in a woman's ovaries, they produce only a small amount of estrogen. Normally, estrogen rises and falls during ovulation, sending signals to the brain. But with so many follicles, estrogen levels remain stable, and the brain cannot perceive the changes, reducing or stopping FSH production. Consequently, ovulation does not occur, which can lead to infertility.
You might be wondering: "Can women with PCOS become mothers?" Don't worry — having PCOS does not mean complete infertility. Is PCOS genetic? Yes. If your mother or grandmother has PCOS, you are more likely to have it as well. Unfortunately, there isn't a cure that can completely get rid of it. However, some methods can help alleviate the symptoms, including adopting a healthy lifestyle and medical treatments. I hope all women become more aware of PCOS. Take care of yourselves and don't forget to follow STEMxFuture! (Source: Evrim Ağacı)