It is estimated that over six million reproductive-age women in the United States have
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and many do not know they have it. The full
and far reaching implications for health and well-being are often underappreciated.
Public information and awareness about the symptoms and the serious nature of this
disorder are crucial to identifying women in need of treatment.
HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is an extremely common disorder which is
characterized by abnormal regulation of ovarian hormones and systemic
metabolic abnormalities. It may present as:
- Irregular or infrequent menstrual bleeding and/or infertility
- Evidence of increased androgens which cause increased facial/body hair growth
or acne
- Multiple small cysts in the ovary as seen on an ultrasound scan
When one abnormality is found, others should be sought. PCOS is often
considered a purely gynecological disorder since many PCOS symptoms
involve a woman's reproductive system. It is, however, a systemic disorder
involving hormones, sugar metabolism, lipids and blood vessels.
In addition to the above, there are a number of other clues that may increase
the suspicion of PCOS:
- Problems maintaining normal weight
- Infertility/recurrent pregnancy loss
- Family members with PCOS
- Family history of diabetes or heart disease
- High blood sugar
- Darkened patches of skin on the neck, groin, under arms, or in skin folds
- Frontal balding or scalp hair loss
- Skin tags
- Elevated cholesterol, low HDL, or high triglycerides
PCOS may manifest itself differently in each woman. Some with PCOS
may have relatively regular periods; some are thin and some have
no obvious skin problems; most are at risk for serious long-term health problems if
not appropriately evaluated.
WHAT TREATMENT OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE?
While PCOS cannot yet be cured, it can be controlled. Specifi c therapies are available for each
of the many symptoms of PCOS. For those who are overweight, menstrual cycle regularity and
ovulation may return with even modest reductions in weight. Regular exercise and tobacco avoidance
has been conclusively shown to lessen the risk of cardiovascular disease. Often lifestyle modifi cation
is not enough. There are a number of medications and therapies available. By early intervention, the
long-term consequences of PCOS can be postponed and possibly prevented.
WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE LONG-TERM HEALTH
CONSEQUENCES OF PCOS?
Heart & Cardiovascular Disease
Women with PCOS are at increased risk for heart attack and strokes. All women with
PCOS should have periodic cholesterol testing and blood pressure monitoring.*
Type 2 Diabetes
The risk of
type 2 diabetes
is increased in all women with PCOS, particularly those
who are obese have had gestational diabetes or a family history of diabetes. AACE
recommends diabetes screening for women with PCOS beginning at age 30, with
repeated yearly testings for those with negative results. In some people, a glucose
challenge test may be recommended.
Endometrial Cancer
The risk of endometrial (uterine) cancer is increased with obesity, infertility, heavy and
infrequent periods. Heavy bleeding, lack of periods, or changes in bleeding pattern
should be discussed with your physician.
HOW CAN I FIND HELP?
The AACE website offers a "Find an Endocrinologist" service where you can search for an endocrinologist
within a certain radius of your home, school or office. For more information, visit
www.aace.com. Also visit
AACE's patient-focused website,
www.powerofprevention.com, and fill out your own personalized health report
to help you monitor your blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure.
Reproduced with permission from the
American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists
April 2001
http://www.aace.com/pub/pcos2004/pcosbochure.pdf
Also see
AACE Public Awareness Campaign about PCOS
Ovarian Cysts
polycystic ovary syndrome
|
|
|
