How does polycystic ovarian syndrome develop?
During the normal maturation process of a womans ovum, an egg develops within a cyst inside the ovary. The rupture of the follicle and release of the mature egg or ovum is called ovulation. The ovaries also produce the hormones estrogen, progesterone and androgens. The multiple small cysts seen in a polycystic ovary are the result of eggs that only partially develop within the ovary. It is thought that a slight elevation of male hormones, characteristic of women with PCOS, may inhibit the eggs development. An eggs failure to mature leads to a lack of ovulation in women with PCOS. The syndrome also causes the pituitary gland to secrete large amounts of luteinizing hormone, which leads to male-type characteristics. What are the symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome? The primary symptoms of PCOS include menstrual irregularities, increased body and facial hair, acne, weight gain and infertility. Additional symptoms include lack of ovulation, gynecological cancers and changes in blood lip
