PCOS Definition

PCOS Definition

PCOS definition is polycystic ovary syndrome which is a health problem that can affect a woman’s menstrual cycle (irregular or missed periods), hormones, the heart and blood vessels and your appearance.  The cause of PCOS is unknown but as many as 5 million women suffer with this hormonal imbalance.  After learning the PCOS definition, it may be surprising to also learn that 1 in every 10 women and it can occur in a girl as young as 11.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome PCOS Definition

In PCOS, higher levels of the hormone, Androgen is created from a women’s ovary.  Androgens are male hormones that women also have but do not create nearly as much as a man.   High levels of androgens affect the release of eggs during ovulation.  Researchers also believe women with more than adequate insulin can create more Androgens than normal.  High androgen levels lead to acne, weight gain, problems with ovulation, and excessive hair growth.

The best way to help with skin and weight issues caused by PCOS is to eat a healthy diet and exercise.  Cutting out sugars and processed foods will lower your sugar levels so you are not creating too much insulin.  Using birth control pills can help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce Androgens and help clear acne.  Another medication that can help is an Anti-Androgen to reduce hair growth and help clear acne.

Other options to control skin issues are getting regular facials that are appropriate for your skin and using the appropriate skin care to control acne.  A cream to reduce facial hair can be prescribed by a doctor known as Vaniqa.  Laser Hair Removal is very common for women battling PCOS to control unwanted hair growth.  If you decide to get laser hair removal it is important to remember that it will take more treatments and more frequent touch-ups than a woman that does not have PCOS.