Risks
Women with PCOS are at risk for the following:
* Endometrial hyperplasia and endometrial adenocarcinoma (cancer of the uterine lining) are possible, due to overaccumulation of uterine lining, and also lack of progesterone resulting in prolonged stimulation of uterine cells by estrogen
* Insulin resistance/Type II diabetes, generally thought to be caused by hyperinsulinaemia
* High blood pressure
* Dyslipidaemia (disorders of lipid metabolism – cholesterol and triglycerides)
* Cardiovascular disease
Some data suggest that women with PCOS have an increased risk of miscarriages. As well, many women with PCOS have a difficult time conceiving, due to the irregular cycles and lack of ovulation. However, it is possible for these women to have normal pregnancies with the aid of medication and diet.
