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| Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome |
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| Standard Definition |
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Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a metabolic reproductive condition that typically involves androgen (testosterone) excess, irregular or absent periods, and various metabolic abnormalities. It is a complicating factor in women trying to conceive, and may predispose to serious conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and uterine cancer. |
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| Underlying Disruption in Function |
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Assessment of this condition usually reveals hormonal imbalances, blood fat abnormalities, and insulin resistance. In most cases, an ultrasound shows enlarged ovaries with multiple small follicles. Approximately half the women with PCOS are obese and the more obese the patient is, the higher the likelihood of insulin resistance. Although the reported incidence of insulin resistance varies, it is estimated to be about 50%. The degree of insulin resistance is directly related to the degree of ' ovarian' resistance to the proper hormonal messages for a healthy menstrual cycle. Therefore successful treatment requires weight loss and blood sugar control. |
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| Possible Causes, Triggers & Exacerbating Factors |
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- Genetic predisposition (eg. diabetes family history)
- Hormonal imbalance originating in the hypothalamus, ovaries or adrenal glands
- Insulin resistance
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| Common Signs & Symptoms |
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- Obesity
- Menstrual irregularity
- Amenorrhoea (lack of menstruation)
- Excessive, dark hair growth (hirsutism)
- Acne
- Infertility
- Sugar cravings
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| Possible Additional Integrative Medicine Diagnostic Tests |
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This is additional information that does not replace nor negate conventional diagnosis. Other tests may be useful depending on the individual circumstance.
- Hormone tests
- Biochemical assessments
- Cardiovascular Risk Assessment
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