Risk Factors of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is an imbalance of the female sex hormones. If you have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), your pituitary gland may release abnormally high amounts of luteinizing hormone into your blood stream, disrupting your normal menstrual cycle. 

As a result, your follicles do not mature and ovulation does not occur which can lead to infertility, some of the immature follicles do not dissolve and remain as fluid filled sacs or cysts. 

In addition, your doctor may find your blood has high levels of insulin. Too much insulin, combined with high levels of luteinizing hormone, can lead to excess production of a male hormone called testosterone in your ovaries. 

PCOS raises risk for:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Cholesterol abnormalities
- Endometrial cancer

Medications for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome:
- Hormonal birth control
- Anti-androgen drugs
- Metformin
- Fertility drugs