Infertility In Female

PCOS, one of the leading causes of Infertility
in female

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a
hormonal disorder common among women
of reproductive age. Women with PCOS may
have infrequent or prolonged menstrual
periods or excess male hormone (androgen)
levels. The ovaries may develop numerous
small collections of fluid (follicles) and fail
to regularly release eggs.

The exact cause of PCOS is unknown. Early
diagnosis and treatment along with weight
loss may reduce the risk of long-term
complications such as type 2 diabetes and
heart disease.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of PCOS often develop
around the time of the first menstrual period
during puberty. Sometimes PCOS develops
later, for example, in response to substantial
weight gain.

Signs and symptoms of PCOS vary. A
diagnosis of PCOS is made when you
experience at least two of these signs:

1. Irregular periods. Infrequent, irregular or
   prolonged menstrual cycles are the most
   common sign of PCOS. For example, you
   might have fewer than nine periods a year,
   more than 35 days between periods and
   abnormally heavy periods.

2. Excess androgen. Elevated levels of male
   hormone may result in physical signs, such
   as excess facial and body hair (hirsutism),
   and occasionally severe acne and male-
   pattern baldness.

3. Polycystic ovaries. Your ovaries might be
   enlarged and contain follicles that surround
   the eggs. As a result, the ovaries might fail
   to function regularly.

When to see a doctor

See your doctor if you have concerns about
your menstrual periods, if you're
experiencing infertility or if you have signs
of excess androgen such as worsening
hirsutism, acne and male-pattern baldness.
Causes

The exact cause of PCOS isn't known.
Factors that might play a role include:

1. Excess insulin. Insulin is the hormone
   produced in the pancreas that allows cells
   to use sugar, your body's primary energy
   supply. If your cells become resistant to the
   action of insulin, then your blood sugar
   levels can rise and your body might produce
   more insulin. Excess insulin might increase
   androgen production, causing difficulty with
   ovulation.

2. Low-grade inflammation. This term is
   used to describe white blood cells'
   production of substances to fight infection.
   Research has shown that women with PCOS
   have a type of low-grade inflammation that
   stimulates polycystic ovaries to produce
   androgens, which can lead to heart and
   blood vessel problems.

3. Heredity. Research suggests that certain
   genes might be linked to PCOS.

4. Excess androgen. The ovaries produce
   abnormally high levels of androgen,
   resulting in hirsutism and acne.

Obesity is associated with PCOS and can
worsen complications of the disorder.