I figure that explaining this health issue might help someone out.  Even if it’s just 1 person.  

They don’t know why some women have this disorder.  They do know it has to do with irregular cycles.  Women who have this have multiple cyst on their ovarys.  Looks similar to a pearl necklace in ultrasound.  10% of women are estimated to be affected by this.  They only learned of it in the 1990’s and while not curable it is easily treated.   I honestly advise any women who have 2 or more of they symptoms to ask their doctor to check for this disorder.  My GYN is a wonderful doctor, but I had to ask him before he saw the connection.  

Symptoms vary woman to woman, but can include many things.  

 Irregular or non existent menstrual cycles.

 Signs of excessive androgens (male hormones)  This can be noticed by male hair patterns.   Facial hair, male pattern baldness, belly hair, etc…

 Ovaries with multiple cyst.   My ovaries actually hurt sometimes.

 Infertility – You betcha.  

 Obesity – Not just being overweight but the inability to lose the weight.

 Skin Tags – small excessive growths of skin in the underarm and neck

 Prediabetes or type 2 diabetes – the problems with your ovaries can actually impair your bodies insulin use.

 Acanthosis nigricans - This is the medical term for darkened, velvety skin on the nape of your neck,  armpits, inner thighs, vulva or under your breasts.

Ok now we know how to tell if we have this, but what might happen if we leave it untreated.

Conditions related to PCOS

 High Blood Pressure

 High Cholesterol

 Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis

 Sleep Apnea

 Diabetes

 Heart Disease

“In polycystic ovary syndrome, your body produces an excess of androgens, and your ratio of LH to FSH is often abnormally high. The process of ovaries releasing eggs (ovulation) occurs less frequently than normal (oligo-ovulation), or the ovaries don’t release eggs at all (anovulation). In the absence of ovulation, the menstrual cycle is irregular or absent.

Doctors don’t know the cause of polycystic ovary syndrome, but research suggests a link to excess insulin, the hormone produced in the pancreas that allows cells to use sugar (glucose), your body’s primary energy supply. By several mechanisms, excess insulin is thought to boost androgen production by your ovaries. Studies also indicate that genetic factors may play a role in PCOS.” Quote taken from the Mayo Clinic website.

If you suspect you might have this once again I urge ask your doctor.  It involves only a few simple test, and an ultrasound.  Then you can begin treatment.  Which is once again… Simple.  I just take birth control pills. Femcon FE to be exact.  Yes you might be told no more simple carbs, but you can enjoy complex carbs.   Which we really all should be eating anyways.  Exercise becomes a part of your life.  It’s important.  If you don’t have diabetes then it helps keep it away.  If you do it helps you manage.  

I compiled my information from the mayo clinic’s website, and what my doctor told me.  Along with what other women  I know have been told.  I make no claims that this is accurate.  Sooo do your own research if this sounds like something you might have.