26/03/2026
📝 Polycystic O***y Syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic O***y Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age. It is characterized by hormonal imbalance, irregular menstrual cycles, and the presence of multiple small cysts in the ovaries.
Causes of PCOS
The exact cause is unknown, but several factors contribute:
1. Hormonal imbalance
• Increased androgens (male hormones) interfere with ovulation
2. Insulin resistance
• The body does not use insulin effectively, leading to increased insulin levels which stimulate androgen production
3. Genetic factors
• Family history increases risk
4. Lifestyle factors
• Poor diet, obesity, and physical inactivity
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms vary among individuals but commonly include:
• Irregular menstruation (missed or infrequent periods)
• Excess hair growth (hirsutism) on face, chest, or back
• Acne and oily skin
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Infertility (due to lack of ovulation)
• Thinning hair or hair loss
• Darkening of skin (especially neck, armpits – acanthosis nigricans)
Complications
If not managed, PCOS can lead to:
• Type 2 diabetes
• Hypertension
• Infertility
• Endometrial cancer
• Cardiovascular diseases
Prevention and Management
Although PCOS cannot be completely prevented, it can be controlled:
1. Lifestyle Modification
• Healthy balanced diet
• Regular exercise
• Weight management
2. Medical Treatment
• Hormonal contraceptives (to regulate menstruation)
• Anti-androgen drugs (to reduce excess hair/acne)
• Fertility treatments (if pregnancy is desired)
• Insulin-sensitizing drugs (e.g., metformin)
3. Health Education
• Regular medical check-ups
• Early diagnosis and treatment
• Awareness about symptoms
PCOS is more common than you think 💛
Irregular periods, acne, weight changes… your body is speaking—listen.
You are not alone, and you can manage it. ✨
PRECIOUS OGWUAZOR (RN/RM/BLS)
