PCOS

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects approximately 10% of women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS often experience irregular menstrual cycles, excess hair growth, acne, and may have difficulties getting pregnant.

What causes PCOS?

The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but it often runs in families and is linked to insulin resistance. Women with PCOS tend to have higher levels of androgens (male hormones) like testosterone. The high androgen levels prevent ovaries from releasing eggs regularly, which causes the ovarian cysts.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

Common PCOS symptoms include:

• Irregular, infrequent, or prolonged menstrual periods


• Excess androgen levels causing hirsutism (excess body hair) and acne


• Difficulty getting pregnant (infertility)


• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight


• Male-pattern baldness


• Darkening of skin, particularly along neck creases, groin, and underneath breasts

How is PCOS diagnosed?

PCOS is diagnosed with a medical history, physical exam, pelvic exam, and blood tests to check hormone levels. An ultrasound may also be done to examine the ovaries.

What is the treatment for PCOS?

There is no cure for PCOS, but symptoms can be managed with lifestyle changes and medications:

• Lose weight with diet and exercise to help regulate menstrual cycles


• Birth control pills to regulate menstrual cycles and help reduce androgen levels


• Fertility treatments like ovulation-inducing medications to aid getting pregnant


• Anti-androgens (spironolactone) to treat hirsutism and acne


• Metformin and other insulin-sensitizing drugs

I highly recommend getting a hormone panel test at HormoVital to check your hormone levels. Their physicians specialize in hormonal conditions like PCOS and can provide customized treatment plans to help regulate cycles, boost fertility, and improve symptoms. Schedule a consultation today!

I hope this gives you a good overview on PCOS. Let me know if you have any other questions!