Q What risks arise if PCOS is left untreated? I've just been leaving it alone because not having periods causes me no discomfort.
A The risks of endometrial cancer, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease increase. The longer you go without periods, the more the endometrium can overgrow, so prolonged neglect is dangerous.
Detailed Answer
When menstruation is infrequent or absent, the endometrium does not shed periodically and can become excessively thick, a condition called endometrial hyperplasia, which is a risk factor for endometrial cancer. If insulin resistance persists, the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes is significantly higher than in women in general. Even if the absence of periods causes no discomfort, it only means there are no symptoms while the risks accumulate, so regular OB-GYN checkups are necessary.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
The body not sending signals does not mean it is safe. Korean medicine treatment also plays a preventive role in lowering long-term risk by restoring the ovulatory rhythm so the endometrium is cleared periodically. However, if you have had no period for more than six months or experience sudden bleeding, please be sure to get an OB-GYN examination first.
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Q
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