Are you still confused about what your irregular monthly cycle is trying to tell you about your health? Well here are a few signs that you may need to look out if you or someone you know is experiencing abnormal period cycles.
Many women will have abnormal periods at some point in their life. For some, this could mean a period that begins or ends sooner or later than it’s supposed to. On the other hand, some may experience longer or shorter periods, as well as unusually painful periods. But why are abnormal periods something to worry about?
PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is a hormonal and ovarian disorder that affects women. The ovaries of a woman produce excessive masculine hormones as a result of this disease. The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, however, it is thought to be linked to hormonal imbalance. Ovulation issues, irregular periods, and infertility are all symptoms of PCOS. This problem is defined by the existence of numerous cysts on the ovaries, which produce excess androgen hormones that can cause acne, hair growth on the face and chest, and irregular periods, among other symptoms. Many women, however, have PCOS without any of these visible signs. When any two of these three main criteria for PCOS are met—frequent or prolonged menstrual cycles, acneiform symptoms, and excessive hair growth on the face, chest, and back—PCOS is diagnosed. Women with PCOS are also at a higher risk of being diagnosed with diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
PCOS symptoms usually occur in a woman’s adult years, however the disorder can also affect teenagers and children.
For women, irregular periods are a warning sign for PCOS. An abnormal period in a woman with PCOS could be a sign of a hormonal imbalance that needs to be addressed.
MOST COMMON SYMPTOMS OF PCOS
PCOS can cause the menstrual cycle to be disrupted, resulting in fewer periods. Other signs and symptoms include:
Abnormal periods:
PCOS can cause the menstrual cycle to be disrupted, resulting in fewer periods over a lifetime, as a woman may get a delayed period or miss one entirely. Heavy bleeding during periods is also a possibility.
Abnormal Hair Growth:
Excessive facial hair and heavy hair growth on the arms, chest, and abdomen are examples of abnormal hair development (hirsutism). Up to 70% of women with PCOS are affected by this.
Acne:
Acne is a common side effect of PCOS, especially on the back, chest, and face. Acne can last well beyond adolescence and can be difficult to treat.
Skin discoloration:
In body creases such as the neck, groin, and under the breasts, dark patches of skin can appear.
Obesity:
Approximately 80% of women with PCOS are overweight or obese and have difficulty reducing weight.
Infertility:
PCOS is the most common cause of infertility. Inability to conceive can be caused by a decrease in ovulation frequency or a complete lack of ovulation.
CAUSES OF PCOS
The exact cause of PCOS is unknown. However, several factors play an important role in causing PCOS:
Genes
According to studies, PCOS runs in families. Many genes, not just one, are likely to play a role in the condition./p>
Testosterone (male hormones) at higher levels:
The ovaries are unable to release eggs (ovulation) due to high testosterone levels, resulting in irregular menstruation periods. Small, fluid-filled sacs can form in the ovaries as a result of irregular ovulation. Acne and excessive hair growth are also symptoms of high androgen levels in women.
Insulin Resistance:
Insulin resistance causes the ovaries to produce and release male hormone as a result of elevated insulin levels (androgens). As a consequence, increased male hormone suppresses ovulation and contributes to other PCOS symptoms.
Inflammation:
Inflammation levels in women with PCOS are frequently higher. Inflammation can also be aggravated by being overweight. Excessive inflammation has been associated with increased androgen levels.
COPING WITH PCOS
If you are someone who is going through these signs of PCOS, then you may need to visit your gynecologist as soon as possible. Weight gain, hair growth, and acne are some of the physical signs of PCOS that some women experience. Electrolysis and laser hair removal are two cosmetic treatments that may help you feel better about your appearance. Consult your doctor about the best ways to cure the symptoms that are bothering you.
