S
SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin)
A protein that binds or attaches to a number of circulating
hormones (e.g. testosterone, dihydrotestosterone and estradiol).
Once the hormones are bound to it, SHBG regulates their presence
in the blood stream and hence their activity. A decrease in SHBG
indicates that a greater number of hormones are circulating in
the blood stream thereby causing clinical symptoms of PCOS such
as hair growth and male pattern baldness.
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens)
A small palm native to the southeast U.S. recognized most for
treating Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy in men. Recent research
has shown saw palmetto to reverse hirsutism in females. The
exact mechanism of action is unknown, although it may inhibit
the enzyme 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone to its
more potent relative, dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
Serophene (Clomiphene)
The brand name, along with Clomid, for a medication used to
treat infertility. Clomid initiates a cascade of endocrine
events which stimulates ovarian follicles and culminates in
ovulation. Common side effects include enlarged ovaries, hot
flashes, abdominal discomfort and visual disturbances.
Sclerocystic Ovaries
Another name for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), along with
Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD),
Stein-Leventhal Syndrome and Chronic Anovulatory Syndrome. It is
the most common female endocrine (hormonal) disorder and is
characterized by multiple abnormal ovarian cysts. The classic
triad of obesity, hirsutism, and irregular anovulatory cycles
occurs in only one third of women with PCOS.
Spironolactone (Aldactone)
See Aldactone.
Statins
A type of drug that lowers LDL (“bad” cholesterol) by inhibiting
HMG CoA reductase, the enzyme that manages the rate of
cholesterol production. Statin drugs also enhance the capability
of the liver to remove LDL-cholesterol already in the blood.
Stein-Leventhal Syndrome
Another name for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), in addition
to Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD),
Sclerocystic Ovaries and Chronic Anovulatory Syndrome. It is the
most common female endocrine (hormonal) disorder and is
characterized by multiple abnormal ovarian cysts. The classic
triad of obesity, hirsutism and irregular anovulatory cycles
occurs in only one third of women with PCOS.
Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica)
A perennial herb with many medicinal uses. The root of Urtica
dioica is used medicinally to increase SHBG (sex hormone binding
globulin). This serves to decrease the activity of excess
hormones in conditions like PCOS and BPH.
Stromal tissue
Connective tissue cells of an organ that comprise its supportive
framework.
Syndrome X
Also known as Metabolic Syndrome, a group of risk factors that
substantially increase the chances of developing coronary artery
disease and Type 2 Diabetes. Characterized by central or
abdominal obesity, high blood lipids (mainly high triglycerides
and low HDL) hypertension and fasting blood glucose >110 mg/dL.
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