Health
Problems
Polycystic
ovaries
What are Polycystic Ovaries?
Polycystic Ovaries (PCO) otherwise known as
Stein-Leventhal Syndrome, are enlarged, smooth ovaries containing multiple, small follicle
cysts. They have been associated with absent or retarded menstruation (known as
amenorrhoea), infertility, acne, obesity and hirsuitism (male-pattern hair growth).
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Known Cause
PCO mostly affects teenagers and young
women and although the exact cause remains unknown, scientists believe that ovulation does
not occur because of a failure of the pituitary gland to secrete sufficient hormones to
stimulate the ovaries.
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Conventional
Treatment
Conventional medical treatment consists of
medications (clomophene [Clomid] is commonly used) and sometimes surgery to remove a
portion of the ovary. The known side effects of clomophene include ovarian
hyperstimulation and enlargement, possible rupture, visual disturbances, hot flushes,
abdominal discomfort, nausea and vomiting, depression, insomnia, weight gain, rashes,
dizziness and hair loss.
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