1POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME (PCOS)
Definition of the Disease
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common gynaecological condition
that affects the normal functioning of either one or both the ovaries of a woman. It is
characterised by appearance of multiple small cysts over the surface of the
ovary/ovaries and hence the name polycystic (National Health Service (NHS) 2020).
Epidemiology
National Health Service (NHS) (2020) report highlights that, it is difficult to
know the exact percentage of women having PCOS. It is a common disease and
nearly one out of five women in the UK are affected with this syndrome. PCOS can
happen to women of diverse ages. Teenage girls and young females are vulnerable
towards developing this syndrome and the disease vulnerability decreases post-
menopause. As per the NHS (2020) reports, teenage girls and the young adult
females, who follow unhealthy lifestyles like the smoking of cigarettes and
consumption of the alcohol, are vulnerable to PCOS.
Aetiology and Pathophysiology
The exact causes of the PCOS is unknown nonetheless, genetic pre-
disposition plays an important role behind the development of this syndrome within
families. The presence of high levels of male hormones like testosterone is regarded
as one of the driving factors behind the polycystic ovary development. Testosterone
imposes male characteristics while secreted at higher levels (higher than normal) in
women's body. The high secretion of testosterone causes expression of secondary
male sexual characteristics among women like excess facial and body hair and
frontal baldness. Males do not have ovaries and thus, male hormone testosterone

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Contribute Materials

Related Documents

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Pcos Assignment 2023

Endocrine and Reproductive Physiology

+13062052269

info@desklib.com