Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders, affecting up to 10 percent of women of reproductive age. Symptoms vary, and many women with the condition are unaware they have it despite displaying several of the effects of it. While the exact causes of PCOS have not been determined, insulin resistance, diabetes, excess facial hair growth and obesity are all associated with the condition. No cure has been found, but diabetic medications and nutritional counseling have helped some patients alleviate weight gain symptoms. PCOS is also known as sclerocystic ovarian disease, Stein-Leventhal syndrome and polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD).
Infertility
Many women with PCOS learn of their condition when they experience problems with their fertility and seek medical treatment. Fertility problems for women with PCOS are common. While some women with the condition will occasionally ovulate, others will never do so. The good news is that fertility treatments for the condition are highly effective. Most women under age 35 with PCOS--provided that they do not have other barriers to fertility--will be able to conceive with treatment. On occasion, a weight loss of 10 to 20 lb. may result in a lessening of PCOS symptoms and a subsequent successful conception for the patient.
Weight Gain
PCOS is associated with weight gain, yet women with PCOS are recommended to lose weight. Extra weight may be carried around the waist, rather than around the hips and thighs, resulting in a somewhat masculine shape. Women may be especially frustrated with weight gain when they report a low-calorie diet and an active exercise regimen. Weight issues related to PCOS are associated with insulin resistance, or sustained high levels of insulin in the bloodstream. Women with PCOS-related weight gain may experience some success with diabetic nutritional counseling, particularly a regimen inclusive of a low-carbohydrate diet.
Hirsutism
One of the most medically harmless yet most embarrassing effects of PCOS is hirsutism--the heavy growth of hair on the face, hands, chest, back, stomach, arms and toes. The excess hair growth is believed to be due to the high testosterone levels present in women with PCOS. While relief is possible with typical hair removal methods--bleaching, waxing and shaving--they do not address the underlying reasons for PCOS. The oral diabetes medication metformin (Glucophage) reduces insulin levels, and may subsequently reduce ovarian testosterone levels, resulting in reduced hair growth. Typically, health insurance plans do not reimburse hair removal methods.
