About Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a highly complex metabolic/endocrine syndrome that affects multiple systems within the body. PCOS is a misnomer, as a patient doesn't have to have polycystic or even cystic ovary(ies) to have this syndrome. Cystic ovaries are only one possible symptom of the syndrome.
The affects related to PCOS differ with each individual, from preteen to post menopause. As more research is done, we understand PCOS as the complex multi system disorder it is, it affects the endocrine system, reproductive system, neurological systems, and many more. It does not discriminate against size, ethnicity, sexual orientation, etc. Currently, there is no official known cause of PCOS, although recent research is showing strong connection to genetics, even specific genes that may be responsible for some patients.
There is NO CURE for PCOS, anyone who tells you otherwise is misinformed. PCOS is a lifelong syndrome that needs to be managed, and although there is no cure, symptoms CAN be lessened with lifestyle management. The management of symptoms will change with person, age and environment.
History of PCOS
Initially PCOS was called Stein-Leventhal Syndrome, after the doctors who discovered the syndrome in 1935. However, the earliest published description of a person displaying symptoms of PCOS was in Italy, 1721. Then again, more documentation was published in 1844. As of 2019, it is estimated that 1 in 5 people with female reproductive organs are affected with PCOS worldwide. There are continually new developments in research on what exactly it is, what causes it, and what we are able to do to reduce side effects.
What exactly is a polycystic ovary?
A cystic or polycystic ovary in relation to PCOS aren't true "cysts". The ovary is usually oversized, due to an abnormally large number of underdeveloped eggs that start the ovulation process, however due to hormone imbalances, do not complete. These underdeveloped eggs are visible near the surface of the ovary, looking like many small cysts. While some people may have cystic and/or polycystic ovaries with PCOS, others may not. Cystic ovaries is not a requirement of PCOS! At the same time, people with cystic ovary/ies may not have PCOS at all. Cystic ovary/ies are only one possible symptom of PCOS.
Is It Really PCOS?
If you suspect PCOS and have not yet been diagnosed, be aware that other causes of some of the significant PCOS side effects could be potentially a separate health issue, such as potentially one of the following. Your symptoms should be investigated with your doctor for a formal diagnosis:
* Hashimoto's Syndrome
* Hypothyroidism
* Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (21-hydroxylase deficiency)
* Cushing's Syndrome,
* Hyperprolactinemia
* Androgen Secreting Neoplasms
* Other Pituitary or Adrenal Disorders
The affects related to PCOS differ with each individual, from preteen to post menopause. As more research is done, we understand PCOS as the complex multi system disorder it is, it affects the endocrine system, reproductive system, neurological systems, and many more. It does not discriminate against size, ethnicity, sexual orientation, etc. Currently, there is no official known cause of PCOS, although recent research is showing strong connection to genetics, even specific genes that may be responsible for some patients.
There is NO CURE for PCOS, anyone who tells you otherwise is misinformed. PCOS is a lifelong syndrome that needs to be managed, and although there is no cure, symptoms CAN be lessened with lifestyle management. The management of symptoms will change with person, age and environment.
History of PCOS
Initially PCOS was called Stein-Leventhal Syndrome, after the doctors who discovered the syndrome in 1935. However, the earliest published description of a person displaying symptoms of PCOS was in Italy, 1721. Then again, more documentation was published in 1844. As of 2019, it is estimated that 1 in 5 people with female reproductive organs are affected with PCOS worldwide. There are continually new developments in research on what exactly it is, what causes it, and what we are able to do to reduce side effects.
What exactly is a polycystic ovary?
A cystic or polycystic ovary in relation to PCOS aren't true "cysts". The ovary is usually oversized, due to an abnormally large number of underdeveloped eggs that start the ovulation process, however due to hormone imbalances, do not complete. These underdeveloped eggs are visible near the surface of the ovary, looking like many small cysts. While some people may have cystic and/or polycystic ovaries with PCOS, others may not. Cystic ovaries is not a requirement of PCOS! At the same time, people with cystic ovary/ies may not have PCOS at all. Cystic ovary/ies are only one possible symptom of PCOS.
Is It Really PCOS?
If you suspect PCOS and have not yet been diagnosed, be aware that other causes of some of the significant PCOS side effects could be potentially a separate health issue, such as potentially one of the following. Your symptoms should be investigated with your doctor for a formal diagnosis:
* Hashimoto's Syndrome
* Hypothyroidism
* Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (21-hydroxylase deficiency)
* Cushing's Syndrome,
* Hyperprolactinemia
* Androgen Secreting Neoplasms
* Other Pituitary or Adrenal Disorders
DISCLAIMER: everyPCOSbody and it's contributors, unless otherwise stated, are NOT doctors. everyPCOSbody, and all whom run and contribute to anything that has the everyPCOSbody name do not make any medical claims. This is just the expression of opinions based on research, knowledge and being involved within the PCOS community. As always, with any medical condition, please speak with your medical team or a medical professional regarding diagnosis and any treatment or treatment changes.
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