Risks of PCOS

Risks

With the increase in androgens, menstrual problems and changes in insulin there is an increased risk of:

• lipid abnormalities including high cholesterol, low HDL & high LDL cholesterol (the different forms of cholesterol)
• diabetes, insulin resistance or elevated insulin level

Potential risks

There may be an increased risk of cardiovascular disease including high blood pressure and heart disease, this has yet to be clarified.

• endometrial or uterine cancer may be increased as oestrogens produced by the ovaries can overstimulate and thicken the endometrium or womb lining and is associated with chronic anovulation.

Psychological Effects

Self-esteem and a sense of one's body image may be affected by the symptoms of hirsutism, acne, hair loss, obesity and fertility problems. Other psychological reactions may occur relating to issues of femininity and sexuality and can contribute to depression, social isolation and other mood changes.