Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
PCOS is a manageable, long-term condition. Understanding it is the first step toward managing your symptoms and feeling your best!
PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects people during their reproductive years. It’s characterized by a hormonal imbalance that can interfere with ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary). The name comes from the small cysts that may form on the ovaries, but not everyone with PCOS has them.
This is the most common sign. You might have fewer than nine periods a year, more than 35 days between periods, or very heavy periods.
Androgens are sometimes called “male hormones.” High levels can cause physical signs like excess facial and body hair (hirsutism), severe acne, and male-pattern baldness.
Your ovaries might be enlarged and contain many small, fluid-filled sacs (follicles) that surround the eggs.
Many people with PCOS struggle with weight gain or have difficulty losing weight, often carrying extra weight around the abdomen.
You may notice dark patches of skin, especially in body folds like the neck, groin, and under the breasts. This is called acanthosis nigricans.
PCOS is one of the most common causes of infertility because it can prevent regular ovulation.
- PCOS can present differently for everyone, but common symptoms include:
How is PCOS Diagnosed?
There isn't a single test for PCOS. To make a diagnosis, your provider will talk with you about your medical history and symptoms. A diagnosis often involves meeting at least two of these three criteria:
- Your provider may also run tests to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.
- Irregular or absent periods.
- Blood tests showing high levels of androgens.
- An ultrasound showing polycystic ovaries.
Treatment & Management
While there is no cure for PCOS, there are many effective ways to manage its symptoms. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific needs and goals, whether that's regulating your cycle, managing skin concerns, or getting pregnant.
Lifestyle modifications are the first and most important step in managing PCOS.
- Healthy Diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. Limiting processed foods and sugary drinks can help regulate your blood sugar and hormone levels.
- Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week. Exercise helps with weight management, improves your body’s use of insulin, and can lower androgen levels.
- Weight Management: If you are overweight, losing even 5-10% of your body weight can significantly improve your symptoms, regulate your menstrual cycle, and improve fertility.
Your provider may recommend medications to help manage specific symptoms:
- Hormonal Birth Control: Combination birth control pills, patches, or rings can help regulate your menstrual cycle, reduce acne, and decrease unwanted hair growth.
- Metformin: This medication helps the body use insulin more effectively. It is often prescribed to improve insulin resistance, which can help with weight loss and restore regular periods.
- Anti-androgens: Medications like spironolactone can be used to block the effects of androgens, helping to reduce excess hair growth and acne.
- Fertility Medications: If you are trying to conceive, medications like clomiphene (Clomid) or letrozole (Femara) can be used to help induce ovulation.
When to Call Us
We are here to help you understand your body, get an accurate diagnosis, and create a management plan that works for you.
- Please schedule an appointment if you are experiencing irregular periods or any of the other symptoms discussed here.