What is it?
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is a disorder that interferes with your metabolism. It does so by wreaking havoc with your hormones leading to high levels of sex hormones and insulin. The problem with this is that it causes problems that lead to fertility issues. It is a common problem that affects about 1 in 10 of women in the US, UK and Australia.
What are its symptoms?
Most of the time the symptoms of PCOS become noticeable to women in their late teens or 20s. The list of possible symptoms are:
- irregular periods
- infertility issues
- weight gain
- insulin resistance
- excess hair on your body
- thinning hair on your head
Women with PCOS also have higher than normal risks for high cholesterol, diabetes, strokes and uterine cancer.
How will my doctor test for PCOS?
There are 3 tests that can be used to diagnose PCOS. One test is to use the symptom check-list. Your doctor may be able to identify the condition just by this list. The second test is a blood test where they look at hormone levels related to the condition. And the third test is an ultrasound scan to look at your ovaries.
If you are struggling to become pregnant and feel like you may be suffering from PCOS, make sure you talk with your doctor.