To understand better about PCOS and if it is transmitted sexually, the significant causes and symptoms for the same have to be explored.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome, or PCOS, is an endocrine system condition that mostly affects women throughout their reproductive years.

Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Sexually Transmitted?

On the ovaries, little fluid-filled sacs form.  It is sometimes referred to as the Stein-Leventhal syndrome. Changes in the menstrual cycle and excessive hair growth are symptoms.

Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Sexually Transmitted?

If left untreated, it might result in infertility and other problems. The precise reason is uncertain. Early detection and treatment are advised.

Weight reduction may also reduce the chance of related health concerns such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease, and hypertension.  

Facts about PCOS

  • PCOS is one of the most prevalent hormonal endocrine diseases, affecting 8-20% of women, the majority of whom are undiagnosed.
  • PCOS has been related to the onset of various medical problems such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
  • More than half of PCOS women acquire type 2 diabetes before the age of 40.
  • PCOS is responsible for around 70% of ovulatory reproductive problems.

The majority of PCOS women develop several tiny cysts, or fluid-filled sacs, on their ovaries. The cysts are not dangerous, but they might cause a hormonal imbalance.

Women with PCOS may also have irregular menstrual cycles, elevated androgen (sex hormone) levels, excessive hair growth, acne, and obesity.

In addition to the numerous health issues connected with PCOS, it is the most prevalent cause of infertility in women, owing to its ability to inhibit ovulation.

Women with PCOS who can conceive have a greater risk of miscarriage, gestational diabetes, pregnancy-induced high blood pressure, preeclampsia, and preterm birth.

Causes

There is currently no recognized cause of PCOS. There are, however, links to excess insulin, low-grade inflammation, and heredity. Therefore it cannot be believed that it is sexually transmitted, as there is no evidence for such transmission happening until now. 

Risk elements

  • It is believed that PCOS has a hereditary component. People who have a mother or sister who has PCOS are more likely to get the condition than those who do not have the illness in their family. The biggest risk factor is the familial connection.
  • Sugar is the body’s major energy source, and it is controlled by insulin, which is released by the pancreas. Insulin resistance is the inability of a person to utilize insulin efficiently. As a result, the pancreas goes into overdrive, secreting more insulin to fulfill the body’s glucose requirements.

Health concerns associated with PCOS

PCOS is connected with several health concerns.

These are some examples:

  • Infertility 
  • Increased lipids 
  • Increased lipids 
  • Liver disease 
  • Liver disease 
  • Abnormal uterine bleeding
  • Blood pressure is too high
  • Obesity may contribute to low self-esteem and depression.
  • Endometrial cancer, gestational diabetes, pregnancy-induced high blood pressure, heart attacks, and miscarriage are also elevated risks.

Signs

In addition to ovarian cysts, PCOS symptoms include:

  • Menstruation is erratic
  • Levels of excess androgen
  • Sleep apnea is a situation where a person can’t breathe while sleeping.
  • A rise in blood pressure
  • Elevated levels of anxiety
  • Acne
  • Acanthosis nigricans, or black patches of skin tiredness
  • Greasy skin
  • Dandruff
  • Elevated cholesterol and triglycerides
  • Resistance to insulin
  • Diabetes type 2
  • Pelvic ache
  • Difficulties with weight control, such as weight increase or trouble reducing weight
  • Hirsutism- a condition characterized by excessive face and body hair development.
  • Reduced libido

Diagnostic tests and procedures

A doctor can diagnose PCOS through a medical history, a physical exam that includes a pelvic exam, and blood tests to assess hormone, cholesterol, and glucose levels. To examine the uterus and ovaries, an ultrasound may be utilized.

Treatment

There is no cure for PCOS, but therapy tries to control an individual’s symptoms. This will be determined by whether the individual wishes to become pregnant and wishes to lower the risk of secondary medical problems such as heart disease and diabetes.

Numerous therapy alternatives are advised, including:

  • Birth control pills: These can assist in the regulation of hormones and menstruation.
  • Diabetes medications: If necessary, these aid in the management of diabetes.
  • Fertility medicines include the use of clomiphene (Clomid), a combination of clomiphene and metformin, or injectable gonadotropins such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) treatments if pregnancy is desired. Letrozole (Femara) may be prescribed in some cases.
  • Fertility treatments include in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine inseminations.

Although the origins of PCOS are unknown, early detection can help ease the symptoms and lower the risk of consequences. Anyone who suspects they have PCOS should consult a doctor.