Irregular Periods, Acne, and Hair Loss? Beware! It Could Be "PCOS" at Play

News
2024-08-07

Irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and hair loss, these seemingly unrelated symptoms may actually be caused by a common underlying condition:Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (hereinafter referred to as PCOS).

PCOS, a reproductive endocrine disorder affecting many women, lurks silently. It can not only impact your menstrual cycle and fertility but also quietly bring a series of health risks, including diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and even the threat of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases andendometrial cancer. Therefore,the treatment of PCOS should not be limited to addressing irregular menstruation and infertility issues but should also focus on the potentialmetabolic diseases it may trigger.

Overview of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

PCOS is a common reproductive endocrine and metabolic disorder affecting approximately 5%-15% of women of reproductive age, impacting women's health from adolescence to menopause. Its main features include oligomenorrhea or amenorrhea, anovulatory infertility, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries, often accompanied byinsulin resistance, obesity, and abnormalities in blood glucose and lipid metabolism.

Pathogenesis

Currently, the etiology of PCOS remains unclear and may involve genetic, metabolic, endocrine, and other factors.

Genetic Factors

Studies indicate that PCOS has a certain familial aggregation. That is, if someone in the family has PCOS, the risk of other female members developing the condition is relatively increased.

Lifestyle and Obesity

Unhealthy eating habits and lack of exercise are significant risk factors for PCOS. Obesity can exacerbate insulin resistance and endocrine hormone imbalance.

Hyperandrogenism

Prolonged high levels of androgens will hinder the normal development of follicles, leading to anovulation or oligo-ovulation, manifested asirregular menstrual cycles, polycystic ovaries, and infertility. It can also causehirsutism, acne, and hair loss.

Insulin Resistance

Both obesity and PCOS itself can lead to insulin resistance. High insulin levels stimulate the ovaries to secrete more androgens, thus forming a vicious cycle.