Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS may have infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods or excess male hormone (androgen levels). Also, the ovaries may develop numerous small collections of fluid (follicles). Unfortunately, the exact cause of PCOS is unknown but early diagnosis of treatment may reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Weight loss has also been proven to decrease any symptoms that are felt.
Signs and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms develop around the time of puberty – they can typically be more severe if you’re obese. What are symptoms of PCOS?
- Irregular periods
- Excess androgen
- Polycystic ovaries.
What causes PCOS?
The exact cause of PCOS is not known. Factors that might play a role include:
- Excess insulin. Insulin is the hormone produced in the pancreas that allows cells to use sugar, your body’s primary energy supply. If your cells become resistant to the action of insulin, then your blood sugar levels can rise and your body might produce more insulin. Excess insulin might increase androgen production, causing difficulty with ovulation.
- Low-grade inflammation. This term is used to describe white blood cells’ production of substances to fight infection. Research has shown that women with PCOS have a type of low-grade inflammation that stimulates polycystic ovaries to produce androgens, which may lead to heart and blood vessel problems.
- Heredity. Research suggests that certain genes might be linked to PCOS.
- Excess androgen. The ovaries produce abnormally high levels of androgen, resulting in hirsutism and acne.
Complications
Complications of PCOS can include:
- Infertility
- Gestational diabetes or pregnancy-induced high blood pressure
- Miscarriage or premature birth
- Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis — a severe liver inflammation caused by fat accumulation in the liver
- Metabolic syndrome — a cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels that significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease
- Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes
- Sleep apnea
- Depression, anxiety and eating disorders
- Abnormal uterine bleeding
- Cancer of the uterine lining (endometrial cancer)
Physical Therapy and PCOS
In regards to physical therapy, sessions may include calming techniques to the pelvic floor including diaphragmatic breathing, stretching and gentle strengthening exercises to induce relaxation and strengthening to prevent any injury from occurring.
References:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pcos/symptoms-causes/syc-20353439
