About Polycystic Ovarian Disease

Overview

Polycystic ovarian disease also goes by the name polycystic ovarian syndrome or PCOS. Women who are of child-bearing age are susceptible to this condition, which is a hormonal disorder. Its name is derived from the cysts, which are fluid filled sacs, that develop in the ovaries.

Features

Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which control egg growth and release, are produced in a small gland at the base of the brain called the pituitary gland. Ovulation occurs when an egg is released from an ovary. The ovaries themselves release estrogen, progesterone and small amounts of male hormones called androgens. According to the National Institutes of Health, when the ovaries overproduce androgens and under-produce the luteinizing hormone, polycystic ovarian syndrome can develop.

Risk Factors

There is no concrete reason why polycystic ovarian disease appears, but there are two factors that increase the risk. Insulin is a hormone released in the pancreas to stabilize blood sugar levels. Insulin resistance is a condition where your body is unable to properly use insulin, and your pancreas produces more of it. The ovaries in turn end up releasing more androgens leading to polycystic ovarian disease. The other risk factor is heredity. You can possibly develop it if your sister or mother have it.

Symptoms

The symptoms of polycystic ovarian disease can range in severity and they can start as soon as menstrual periods have begun. Abnormal periods, acne, facial hair, male pattern baldness, obesity and infertility are all signs and symptoms.

Complications

Polycystic ovarian disease can also lead to other complications. Your triglycerides can become high and your HDL (good cholesterol) levels can become lower. You can develop high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and your liver can be come inflamed. In the worst of cases, uterine bleeding can take place and you can develop endometrial cancer.

Treatments

The treatments for polycystic ovarian disease are targeted at managing your main symptoms. Regular doctor's check-ups are performed to make sure blood pressure, lipid levels and glucose levels are all normal. Birth control pills such as spironolactone and eflornithine are often prescribed to reduce androgen production and body hair growth. Clomiphene citrate and metformin are often prescribed to promote fertility.

Home Remedies

Eating complex carbs that are high in fiber can keep your insulin levels under control. Examples of foods that are high in fiber include oatmeal, oat bran, fruits, vegetables, beans and whole wheat pasta. Simple carbs like cakes, cookies, doughnuts, candy, ice cream and fruit juice should all be avoided. Partaking in daily exercise can also help keep blood sugar levels stabilized, and it can also keep weight under control.