PCOS symptoms

In my previous blog I covered some nutrients helpful in managing insulin resistance common in women with PCOS. So what is this condition and what are the symptoms?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition in which many small cysts grow on your ovaries (hence its name – polycystic ovary syndrome) causing hormonal imbalance. PCOS is one of the most common causes of female infertility. This is due to irregular or lack of ovulation, which means irregular or absent periods.

Here is a list of some common symptoms. If you are struggling to get pregnant and worry you might have PCOS book an appointment with your GP.

PCOS symptoms:

• Irregular periods
• Excess facial and body hair and acne (this is due to elevated male hormone androgen)
• Weight gain
• Difficulty getting pregnant
• Thinning hair or hair loss

If you think you may have PCOS don’t ignore the symptoms as PCOS may increase the risk of the following conditions:

• Diabetes type 2
• Elevated cholesterol levels
• High blood pressure
• Infertility
• Depression

Unfortunately there is no cure for PCOS, however eating healthy and balanced diet may alleviate some of your symptoms and if overweight or obesity is a factor it will help you to lose weight.

For more information visit:

http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Polycystic-ovarian-syndrome/Pages/Introduction.aspx