Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS): Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome also referred to as Stein-Leventhal syndrome is characterized by the formation of numerous small cysts in the ovaries of a female that leads to hormonal imbalance causing a constellation of signs and symptoms. PCOS is one of the most common causes of infertility in females and affects approximately 5-10% of females. PCOS presents as symptoms of disturbances of the menstrual cycle and increased levels of androgens (male hormones). Menstrual disturbances can range from delayed menstruation also known as primary amenorrhea to decreased frequency of menstrual periods also referred to as oligomenorrhea to complete absence of menses for greater than 3 months also referred to as secondary amenorrhea. The cycles are usually anovulatory (i.e., ovulation does not occur) and may cause heavy menstrual bleeding. The other symptoms of PCOS include excessive hair growth on the body also referred to as hirsutism, acne, male pattern baldness, weight gain and obesity, insulin resistance, elevated cholesterol levels, high blood pressure and infertility.

Female Health

Obesity is known to contribute to anovulation, menstrual irregularities and sub-fertility. Furthermore, obese women who do become pregnant are at increased risk of miscarriage and obstetric complications including pregnancy-induced hypertension, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, fetal macrosomia, and neonatal and maternal mortality. Outcomes for those undergoing IVF treatment are consistently poorer for obese individuals, and the offspring of obese women are at higher risk of becoming obese themselves and of developing heart disease, diabetes and other metabolic conditions later in life. The complex deregulatory effects of excess weight upon hormone production are thought to play a part in many of these issues.

Health Benefits of Bariatric Surgery

Anyone who has lived with obesity for any length of time will be well aware that the negative effects of carrying excessive weight are not limited to physical appearance. Overweight and obesity can impact upon every system in the body, leading to a host of health problems that limit quality of life and life expectancy. The social stigma carried by obesity can have a significant detrimental effect upon self-esteem and psychological wellbeing, whilst the physiological changes associated with the condition can lead to multiple life-threatening co-morbidities.