PCOS

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a hormonal disorder that affects approximately 10% of American women. The name of the disorder can be misleading, as many women don’t experience cysts as part of the condition.

Your body produces many different hormones, which act as chemical communications experts to trigger or halt various processes throughout your body. The specific hormones linked to PCOS include insulin, progesterone, and androgens, which are sometimes referred to as “male” hormones.

Researchers are unsure of the exact cause of PCOS but believe there’s a genetic component. The condition may also be linked to excess insulin production, which can alter your ovulation patterns.

When hormones become unbalanced, you can experience numerous troubling and disruptive symptoms.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

Not everyone experiences significant PCOS symptoms, and many women assume their symptoms are related to puberty or another condition. When symptoms are present, they include:

• Acne or oily skin
• Hair growth in unwanted areas
• Problems losing weight or maintaining weight loss
• Hair loss on scalp
• Headaches
• Sleep disruption
• Changes in your period
• Infertility

You may notice just one of these symptoms or a combination of several. Fortunately, a number of treatments can manage PCOS symptoms.

How is PCOS treated?

Once your gynecologist diagnoses PCOS, you discuss treatment options and decide on a plan that meets your needs. Medication may play a role in your treatment path. Most options alter your hormonal balance to ease symptoms. Many women benefit from hormonal birth control such as pills, patches, or vaginal rings.

Lifestyle modifications can also make a world of difference in managing PCOS. Losing excess weight, improving your diet, and getting plenty of exercise can all improve your health and make it easier to alleviate symptoms.

There are also treatments that can help with specific symptoms. For example, laser hair removal can eliminate unwanted hair. If you’re struggling to get pregnant, fertility care can help you reach your goals of motherhood.

If you’d like to learn more about the diagnostic and treatment options available through Progressive Women’s Care, book an appointment today. Online scheduling is fast and easy, or you can always reach the office by phone.