PCOS is a condition that affects the ovaries, which are the reproductive organs responsible for producing eggs and hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone. In PCOS, the ovaries become enlarged and contain many small cysts or follicles that fail to release mature eggs, leading to irregular menstrual cycles and infertility.
PCOS also affects the body’s production of hormones, leading to an imbalance between androgens (male hormones) and estrogen. This hormonal imbalance can cause a range of symptoms, such as acne, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), and male pattern baldness.
In addition to reproductive and hormonal issues, PCOS can also lead to metabolic disturbances, such as insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and obesity. These metabolic disturbances can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.