Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a problem that troubles many women. In addition to unwanted physical symptoms, PCOS also carries a higher level of risk of certain diseases, so finding adequate treatment is a must. If you think you have PCOS or have been diagnosed with this disorder, contraceptives can help.

What Is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a disorder in which the body creates abnormal quantities of hormones that regulate menstruation in women. The body needs a very delicate balance of hormones in order to properly ovulate, menstruate, and to conceive children. In particular, PCOS throws off the production of by causing abnormally high levels of androgens in the body. This hormone is present in both men and women, but men have higher levels of the hormone. As a result, normal female functions may not work properly if there is too much androgen in the body. Namely, abnormally-timed periods and infertility can occur.

Problems PCOS Creates

In addition to fertility and period problems, there are other more obvious symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome that trouble women who have the disorder. Excessive body hair and acne can develop in addition to weight gain. While over-the-counter treatments to remove hair, reduce acne, and diet and exercise can help to control these symptoms, they don't target the basic problem of PCOS.

In addition, PCOS can put sufferers at a higher risk of developing health problems like heart disease, sleep apnea, and diabetes. This makes PCOS not only unpleasant for those who have it but downright dangerous.

Birth Control

While any physician will most likely recommend treating problems that have developed due to PCOS, they will also want to get to the root problem itself, too. Thankfully, birth control can help to curb some of the more dangerous and unwanted symptoms of PCOS.

Birth control in the form of a pill, IUD, or a skin patch can help to correct the abnormal levels of hormones in the body. Doing so will help to reduce the prominence of PCOS symptoms and can even help to reduce the risk of developing the diseases PCOS can trigger. There is no cure for PCOS, but taking birth control on a regular basis until menopause can help to keep this disorder under control.

PCOS is a serious condition with a number of unwanted symptoms and side effects. If you suspect that you're suffering from this condition, consult with a physician right away for help.