Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

What is polycystic ovary syndrome?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that results from an imbalance in your reproductive hormones. This imbalance causes problems in your ovaries, the structures that release an egg each month.

When you have PCOS, your ovaries may not release eggs as they should, or the eggs may not be properly developed.

Many women experience PCOS-related symptoms in their 20s and 30s, but the condition can occur in females of any age after puberty. You may be at increased risk for PCOS if you’re obese or if you have a family history of the condition.

What are the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome?

A common symptom of polycystic ovary syndrome is irregular menstrual cycles. When you have PCOS, you may have fewer than eight periods a year or have periods that come more often than what’s normal. It’s also possible to stop having periods due to PCOS.

Other common symptoms of PCOS include:

• Acne
• Weight gain
• Thinning hair
• Areas of darkening skin

You may also develop hirsutism, the excess growth of hair on your face, chin, and other areas where men traditionally have hair.

Some women experience infertility because of PCOS and have difficulty becoming pregnant because they aren’t ovulating properly.

How is polycystic ovary syndrome treated?

The Women's Center medical team confirms polycystic ovary syndrome through a pelvic exam and an in-office ultrasound. 

Because there’s no cure for PCOS, your provider focuses on a treatment plan to better manage your symptoms. PCOS treatment typically involves several strategies to address multiple symptoms, such as:

Lifestyle modifications 

Your physician provides you with a life-long management plan that includes lifestyle modifications to improve your diet and general health. This is important for helping you maintain a healthy weight to regulate your periods and improve your fertility.

Birth control

You may also need to use hormonal birth control to regulate your menstrual cycle. Birth control is also effective at reducing PCOS-related acne and unwanted facial hair.

Infertility treatments

If you need help becoming pregnant, The Women's Center providers offer fertility medications to regulate your ovulation. They may also suggest minimally invasive surgery to treat blockages in your ovaries that interfere with the release of your eggs for fertilization.

If you have symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome, request an appointment online or call The Women’s Center, PC, office nearest you today.