Though PCOS symptoms are mostly things that might be considered inconveniences, there are serious long term effects associated with the syndrome. The following are more serious symptoms and comorbid disorders that appear with chronic untreated PCOS.
- Endometrial cancer -The endometrium is the innermost lining of the uterus. When women have their periods, they shed the top layer of the endometrium. Endometrial cancer may be caused due to lack of ovulation and a build-up of endometrium.
- Metabolic syndrome & risk of diabetes - The insulin resistance in women with PCOS is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. The risk for type 2 diabetes is four times higher in women with PCOS. Developing diabetes means the need to track blood sugar, monitor carbohydrates, and usually medication. Diabetes raises your risk of other health problems as well, including nerve damage, changes in vision, and kidney problems.
- Sleep apnea - Sleep apnea is more common in women who are overweight and especially if they also have PCOS. Sleep apnea is brief repeated pauses in breathing during sleep which can cause fatigue during the day.
- Cardiovascular disease - Women with PCOS are at an increased risk for high blood pressure, arterial problems, and high cholesterol as a result of poorly managed diabetes. Women with PCOS are also at a higher risk for heart disease, heart failure, and stroke.
- Mood disorders - Experts are not sure why anxiety, depression, and eating disorders are more common in women with PCOS. Some suspect it is hormonal imbalance that causes mood changes, and others say distress due to living with PCOS (like weight gain, hair growth, and infertility) are the cause.