What is the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?
To provide you with keywords for a better understanding of PCOS, we’ve prepared a comprehensive glossary. This list of key terms will help you grasp what PCOS involves and how it can impact the health and quality of life of those affected. Early awareness and knowledge of these keywords are essential for managing PCOS effectively.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age. PCOS causes enlarged ovaries, which develop small cysts on their outer edges. Women with PCOS often experience a range of symptoms including menstrual irregularities, acne, hirsutism, abnormal fat distribution and potential of subfertility. However, it is also associated with lifelong disorders like type 2 Diabetes, Anxiety, Depression, Premature vascular aging and others.
Key Terms and Keywords for a Better Understanding of PCOS
Symptoms:
Symptoms are the signs or effects caused by PCOS. They can vary from one women to another, but the most common symptoms are: Irregular menstrual periods, Acne, Weight gain, Hair loss and Excessive hair growth on the face or body.
Irregular Periods:
Irregular periods are those who don’t follow a regular menstrual schedule. Women with PCOS may experience very unpredictable periods or even the absence of menstruation for months at a time.
Ovulation:
Ovulation refers to the process when an ovary releases an egg each month. In women with PCOS, ovulation doesn’t happen regularly, which can make it harder to get pregnant.
Subfertility:
Subfertility refers to having a lower likelihood of becoming pregnant, but without being completely infertile. This is common in women with PCOS due to issues with irregular ovulation.
Androgens:
Androgens are male hormones, such as testosterone, that are present in both men and women. In women with PCOS, elevated androgen levels can cause symptoms like excessive hair growth, acne, and hair loss.
Hirsutism:
Hirsutism refers to excessive hair growth in areas of the body where women typically do not grow much hair, such as the face, chest, and back. This is caused by high levels of androgens in women with PCOS.
Insulin Resistance:
Insulin resistance is a condition in which the body does not respond properly to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. This condition is common in women with PCOS and can lead to weight gain and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
SPIOMET4HEALTH is an EU funded project that aims to provide a novel treatment for adolescent girls and young adult women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). PCOS negatively affects the health and quality of life of approximately 110 million women who suffer from this syndrome, as well as their offspring. PCOS has an impact on the emotional, physical, social functioning and behaviour, and family-related activities.