All About PCOS - What Is It And What Causes It

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is an unbelievably common condition, which often goes undiagnosed. It’s a condition that sets specific hormones out of balance and presents itself as symptoms like irregular menstruation cycles, small ovarian cysts, and even a higher level of androgens, which includes testosterone.

Contrary to popular belief, however, PCOS isn’t simply a disease of the ovaries. It’s a condition beyond just that spectrum and continues to baffle experts today. Recent developments show that PCOS is indeed an endocrine and metabolic dysfunction, which affects well beyond just the ovaries.

Not all women who suffer from PCOS have ovarian cysts, for instance, and the presence of polycystic ovaries do not necessarily pertain to a diagnosis of the condition. Given the extensive range of studies and elusive nature of the condition, women all over the world continue to suffer, especially since PCOS can cause a platoon of other symptoms such as excess facial and body hair, acne breakouts, and weight gain.

PCOS can be difficult to completely understand, but not entirely possible. To help you learn more about the disease, we answer your most pressing questions in this quick and easy guide: 

What causes the symptoms of PCOS? 

Although the exact causes of PCOS and how they occur vary and remain elusive, most of the symptoms have been traced back to androgens. These are hormones that have a higher-than-normal presence in the body, leading to the various bodily changes that women suffer from. 

Bear in mind that ovaries are designed to produce hormones, all of which affect the control functions of the entire body. One of the most important hormones ovaries make is estrogen, regarded as the female hormone. Estrogen is more prominent in women’s bodies, but they also produce androgens, which are the male hormones.

Men and women need to have certain levels of these hormones to enjoy normal health, but PCOS throws everything out of balance. Rather than produce normal amounts of estrogen, women suffer from high levels of androgens, which interferes with the entire process of ovulation. As a result, irregular periods occur.  

Insulin problems can also happen, rendering cells unable to respond normally. When this happens, the level of sugar in the blood rises, leaving women susceptible to diabetes. This can also increase appetite and result in weight gain, further exacerbating the already fluctuating body weight.  

What are the most common symptoms of PCOS?

You may have a healthy vagina, but bear in mind that PCOS happens due to a variety of causes, most of which already present themselves as mere symptoms. From everything said and gathered, the condition goes beyond just the reproductive system.  

For this reason, you need to understand that PCOS affects the entire body, in more ways than one. Here are some tell-tale signs you need to watch out for: 

• Weight gain
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Vaginal bleeding that soaks through period products
• Excessive hair growth or hair loss
• Adult acne
• Other skin changes, such as discolouration
• Type 2 diabetes
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Mood disorders, such as anxiety, distress, depression and eating disorders 

Powering Through PCOS 

Given the current nature of PCOS, dealing with it can be incredibly frustrating. Not only does it affect your overall physical health, but the toll of most symptoms can affect how you perceive yourself, particularly since it worsens skin conditions and leads to abnormal hair conditions.  

If you suspect that you may be suffering from PCOS, it’s best to consult your doctor. Any specific questions or concerns will be tended to and tailored plans on symptoms management will be given.

As you care for your body better, maintaining a good vaginal PH balance is necessary. For this reason, Imbue Natural offers you the best intimate care products. We offer you only natural ingredients, designed specifically to help you achieve a healthier system. Order safe and cruelty-free products today!