Published on: 6/12/2025
Last Update: 6/20/2025
What are the long-term effects of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome if left untreated?
Untreated Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can lead to problems like diabetes, heart disease, and issues with fertility
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Explanation
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that can cause various health problems if not treated. Over time, PCOS can lead to serious issues.
Metabolic Issues
- Women with PCOS often have insulin resistance. This means their bodies have trouble using insulin, which can lead to type 2 diabetes.
Heart Health
- PCOS can increase the risk of heart disease. This is because it is linked to high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels.
Reproductive Health
- PCOS can make it hard to get pregnant. Women may have fewer periods or no periods at all, which can affect fertility.
Mental Health
- PCOS may also affect mental well-being. Women with PCOS can experience anxiety and depression.
Taking steps to manage PCOS can help prevent these problems. This might include lifestyle changes, like eating healthy and exercising, or taking medications as advised by a healthcare professional. If you have concerns about your mental health, consider visiting 988lifeline.org for support.
(References)
- Peigné M, & Dewailly D. (2014). Long term complications of polycystic ovary syndrome .... Annales d'endocrinologie, 25156132.
- Anagnostis P, Tarlatzis BC, & Kauffman RP. (2018). Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS): Long-term metabolic .... Metabolism: clinical and experimental, 29024702.
- Glintborg D, & Andersen M. (2017). Morbidity in polycystic ovary syndrome. European journal of endocrinology, 27601016.
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