Could it Be PCOS?

One of the major reasons many women can't get pregnant is something called polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS. Women who have PCOS also have a greater chance than others of developing type 2 diabetes, especially if they are overweight.

Between 4 percent and 10 percent of women of childbearing age have been diagnosed with PCOS. Most women with PCOS don't know they have it.

About half of all women with PCOS are overweight, and many of these women have insulin resistance, a condition that can lead to type 2 diabetes. When doctors diagnose PCOS in their patients, they often test them for diabetes also.

What causes PCOS?

The ovaries normally release one egg every month (ovulation). In PCOS, this either happens irregularly or not at all. Too many male hormones (androgens) are released and - because there are not enough female hormones - women with PCOS have irregular menstrual cycles or no periods at all. Doctors are not sure what causes PCOS, but believe it may be too much insulin.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

• Irregular or absent menstrual periods.
• Hair thinning, facial hair, hair on the chest, stomach, back, thumbs or toes.
• Acne.
• Infertility or inability to get pregnant because of not ovulating.
• Pelvic pain.
• Weight gain or obesity, usually carrying extra weight around the waist.
• Type 2 diabetes.
• High cholesterol.
• High blood pressure.
• Thickened and dark brown or black skin on the neck, arms, breasts, or thighs.
• Skin tags in the armpits or neck area.

What is insulin resistance?

Insulin is a hormone that allows cells to take up glucose (sugar). In type 2 diabetes, the cells are unable to respond to insulin. If a woman is obese, this makes the condition even worse. About one third of people with insulin resistance develop type 2 diabetes.

How is PCOS diagnosed?

• Blood tests are done to see whether the symptoms are caused by PCOS or problems with other organs.
• Ultrasound is performed to look at the ovaries and see if there are cysts.
• Blood sugar and cholesterol tests are performed.

What you should do

If you are experiencing menstrual problems or difficulty getting pregnant, see your doctor. Several other conditions are similar to PCOS, so a complete medical exam should be done. Whether or not you have symptoms of PCOS, the following tips will help prevent diabetes and keep you fit:

• Eat a balanced diet of proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy.
• Exercise regularly to balance your calories and to stay at a healthy weight.

Related Articles Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Causes of Infertility Treating Infertility Infertility Diagnostic Tests When Should a Couple Seek Treatment for Infertility? Could You Have Diabetes? Adults Can Get 'Child' Diabetes

External Sources The Nemours Foundation. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Accessed May 29, 2007. The National Women's Health Information Center. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Accessed May 29, 2007.

This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.

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