PCOS health risks: Women with PCOS are more likely to have high blood pressure, clogged arteries, and imbalanced cholesterol levels due to poor diabetes management (Image: Canva)
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), it is marked by irregular menstrual cycles, high levels of male hormones (androgens), and polycystic ovaries (enlarged ovaries with multiple small cysts).
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) leads to hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles, high androgen levels, and ovarian cysts, as per the World Health Organisation (WHO). These irregular periods and lack of ovulation can make conception difficult, making PCOS a major cause of infertility. While PCOS is a chronic condition with no cure, symptoms can be managed through lifestyle modifications, medications, and fertility treatments. The exact cause remains unknown, but a family history or type 2 diabetes increases the risk.
When the ovaries produce abnormal levels of hormones, particularly androgens or testosterone, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) arises, explains Dr Kshitiz Murdia, CEO & Co-founder of Indira IVF. He adds, “PCOS is a prevalent condition, affecting approximately one in five women in India. The disorder can lead to various symptoms and health complications, including unexplained weight gain, irregular menstrual cycles, and unexpected hair growth in unwanted places.”
Dr Murda shares some of the effects that PCOS can have on a woman's body:
Cardiovascular diseases:
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Hormonal imbalances in PCOS, particularly excess androgen production, can increase the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes. Women with PCOS are more likely to have high blood pressure, clogged arteries, and imbalanced cholesterol levels due to poor diabetes management.
Diabetes:
Insulin resistance, common in women with PCOS, is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. This condition can lead to systemic nerve damage, visual problems, kidney issues, and cardiovascular diseases. Both PCOS and diabetes are linked to infertility.
Emotional distress:
PCOS can significantly impact psychological and emotional well-being. Women with PCOS are more susceptible to anxiety, depression, low energy, and eating disorders. The physical symptoms and infertility challenges associated with PCOS can lead to considerable emotional distress.
Excessive hair loss/growth:
Elevated androgens in women with PCOS cause hirsutism, characterized by excessive facial hair growth. Conversely, some women may experience male pattern baldness due to these hormonal changes.
Infertility:
PCOS affects fertility by disrupting regular ovulation. Irregular release of eggs due to abnormal oestrogen production in the ovaries can prolong the monthly cycle. While PCOS is a leading cause of infertility, not all women with PCOS are infertile.
Skin problems:
Hormonal imbalances from PCOS can lead to various skin issues, including hormonal acne, greasy skin, blackheads, dry lips, and redness. Some skin problems may also arise from PCOS medications.
Insomnia and fatigue:
Women with PCOS often experience insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, and disrupted sleep. Hormonal imbalances, metabolic disorders, and psychological issues related to PCOS can contribute to these sleep disturbances, increasing the risk of sleep disorders and anemia.
Irregular periods:
The most common symptom of PCOS is irregular menstrual cycles. Hormonal imbalances, such as elevated levels of testosterone, luteinising hormone, and oestrogen, alongside reduced follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), disrupt the regularity of periods.
Pregnancy complications:
Hormonal imbalances affecting the ovaries in women with PCOS can complicate menstruation and pregnancy. Difficulties in developing or releasing eggs reduce the chances of natural conception.
Weight changes:
Weight gain that is difficult to control is often seen in PCOS. Excess body fat increases the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular issues, and endometrial cancer. Although weight gain is not a definitive sign of PCOS, it is frequently linked to insulin resistance. Shedding extra weight can help alleviate several PCOS-related health problems.