Polycystic ovary syndrome and the skin

Often, the skin can be a window to what is occurring inside your body. For women with polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, this this may mean acne, hair loss, excessive facial or body hair growth, dark patches on the skin, or any combination of these issues. What is PCOS? Skin and hair issues can be the most readily perceptible features of PCOS, and thus sometimes the reason for seeking medical care. However, features of PCOS also include menstrual irregularities, polycystic ovaries (when the ovaries develop multiple small follicles and do not regularly release eggs), obesity, and insulin resistance (when cells do not respond well to insulin). The cause of PCOS is not entirely understood, but scientific evidence points to hormonal imbalances, specifically excess testosterone (also known as hyperandrogenism) and insulin resistance. PCOS is the most common cause of infertility in women. The hormonal imbalances in PCOS disrupt the process of ovulation, and without ovulation pregnancy is not possible. PCOS exists on a spectrum, meaning not every woman with PCOS has the same signs and symptoms. Because of the variation in characteristics of this syndrome, it can be difficult to diagnose. How do I know if I have PCOS? There is no one specific test that can be used to diagnose PCOS, so a thoughtful and thorough workup, including lab tests and imaging, is needed. Lab tests typically involve measuring levels of various hormones, such as androgens. Imaging tests may include ultrasound o...
Source: Harvard Health Blog - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Diet and Weight Loss Family Planning and Pregnancy Fertility Skin and Hair Care Women's Health Source Type: blogs