A common hormonal disorder that affects individuals with ovaries is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
It is triggered by overproduction of Androgens, male sex hormones in the body.
It can cause several issues like acne, fatigue, excess hair growth, and fertility problems.
Since it can affect a person’s reproductive health, one question that commonly comes up is whether PCOS can be sexually transmitted.
This article will attempt to answer the question- ‘Is PCOS a sexually transmitted disease?’ We will also explore the causes of PCOS and its management.
Is PCOS a Sexually Transmitted Disease
No, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is not a Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) or Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)
An STD or STI is transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, oral, and anal sexual activity. It can also be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding.
PCOS is not an STI because it cannot be transmitted through sexual contact. Instead, the cause of PCOS can include lifestyle or environmental factors.
The next section will explore the causes of PCOS to give you a better understanding of the matter.
Causes of PCOS
Source: Oleksandra_Troian_from_Getty_ImagesA variety of environmental and lifestyle factors can impact hormone production in the body. The factors that may cause excess Androgens, male sex hormones, to result in PCOS may include:
Insulin Resistance: Insulin resistance is one of the most significant traits in people with PCOS. It results in a specific type of PCOS, commonly known as Insulin-resistant PCOS.
Genetics: Research suggests that PCOS can impact certain genes, which may be passed on to the next generation. Therefore, family history or genetics may raise the risk of PCOS.
Inflammation: According to 2013 research, chronic inflammation in the body can trigger the ovaries to overproduce Androgens, which may lead to Inflammatory PCOS.
Obesity: There is a close association between obesity and PCOS. Excessive body fat can cause hormonal imbalances, which may lead to the development of PCOS symptoms.
You should note that the presence of these causes does not necessarily mean the presence of PCOS.
To learn more about why PCOS is a genetic condition, read Unraveling the Facts: Is PCOS Genetic?
How to Treat PCOS
Source: Stojanovic_from_Getty_ImagesThe treatment of PCOS generally depends on whether you’re planning a pregnancy or not.
In both cases, lifestyle changes like diet and workouts are a part of the treatment plan. These lifestyle changes may also help you lose weight, which can help restore hormonal imbalances.
Your healthcare provider may also recommend medications for PCOS, such as Metformin or Spironolactone.
They may also prescribe birth control pills if you’re not planning a pregnancy.
Some natural treatments like herbal teas and supplements may also be considered along with medical treatments.
To learn more about the management of weight with PCOS, read How to Lose Weight with PCOS? Navigating Effective Strategies.
Final Words
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a common hormonal disorder that affects a person’s reproductive health.
This has led to a common question among many people- ‘Is PCOS a sexually transmitted disease?’
No, PCOS is not an STI or STD, as it cannot be transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person.
Instead, the factors that may potentially cause PCOS include genetics, Obesity, inflammation, and insulin resistance.
Addressing the underlying cause of PCOS with medications and lifestyle changes is the preferred course of treatment.
It is necessary to seek medical advice if you have PCOS symptoms for effective management of the condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can PCOS develop at any age?
Yes, PCOS can develop during the teenage years or in adulthood. Early diagnosis and management are essential for better outcomes.
Is PCOS curable?
No, PCOS is a chronic condition, but its symptoms can be managed effectively with lifestyle changes and medications. There is no cure, but treatment can improve the quality of life.
Are there dietary restrictions for PCOS?
While there are no strict dietary restrictions for PCOS, avoiding foods like processed carbohydrates (bread, cakes, white rice, etc) and sugary beverages.
Adopting a balanced diet with a focus on whole foods can positively impact PCOS symptoms.
Can stress worsen PCOS symptoms?
Stress may contribute to hormonal imbalances, potentially worsening PCOS symptoms. Stress management techniques like yoga can be beneficial.
Can PCOS lead to other health issues?
PCOS is associated with an increased risk of conditions such as type 2 Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and endometrial cancer. Regular health check-ups are important.
Cheap Medicine Shop only refers to credible, authoritative sources for our content. If you’re curious about how we ensure the integrity of our content, we encourage you to read our Content Information Policy.
