PHOTOGRAPH: SHUTTERSTOCK
The prevalence of PCOS is thought to be five to 10 per cent of women, and involves a constellation of clinical and biochemical features. Women with PCOS produce a higher amount of a group of hormones called androgens, such as testosterone. It is thought that this excess is made by the adrenal glands and ovaries and is both affected by, and causes, imbalances in insulin, which is a pivotal hormone for blood-sugar management. It’s also thought that PCOS is genetic, so women with a family history of diabetes may have a higher risk of developing the condition.
These imbalances in both androgens and insulin can result in symptoms including an irregular menstrual cycle, acne, excessive body hair, weight-management issues, mood changes and reduced ovulation or anovulation (cessation of periods). Some women who experience a number or a few of these symptoms would be diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome. However, some do not experience any of the symptoms, but still present with polycystic ovaries.