What are the health risks of PCOS?
Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) can be at an increased risk for developing several other conditions. Irregular menstrual periods and the absence of ovulation can cause women to produce the hormone estrogen, but not the hormone progesterone. Without progesterone, which causes the endometrium to shed each month as a menstrual period, the endometrium becomes thick, which can cause heavy bleeding or irregular bleeding. Eventually, this can lead to endometrial hyperplasia or cancer. Women with PCOS are at higher risk for diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart disease, and even COVID-19. Getting the symptoms under control at an earlier age may help to reduce this risk.
- What causes polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)?
- Why do women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) have trouble with their menstrual cycle?
- What are the symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)?
- What tests are used to diagnose polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)?
- How is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) treated?
- How does polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) affect a woman while pregnant?
- Does polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) change at menopause?