PCOS

What is PCOS?

PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a common hormonal disorder that affects women during their reproductive years. An estimated 5-10% of women have PCOS.

The defining characteristics of PCOS include:

• Irregular or absent menstrual cycles - Women with PCOS often have infrequent, irregular, or prolonged menstrual periods. Some women don't ovulate or have periods for months or years.


• Excess androgen levels - Women with PCOS tend to have higher than normal levels of male hormones like testosterone. This can cause symptoms like excess facial and body hair growth, acne, and thinning hair.


• Ovarian cysts - PCOS causes the ovaries to produce immature follicles that group together to form benign cysts on the ovaries.

While the exact cause is unknown, PCOS seems to stem from complex hormonal imbalances. Risk factors like insulin resistance, inflammation, and genetics may also play a role.

PCOS has several troubling implications for a woman's health:

• Infertility due to lack of ovulation


• Endometrial cancer risk due to overgrowth of the uterine lining


• Pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia


• Metabolic conditions like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and stroke

If you suspect you may have PCOS, make an appointment with Endocrine Wellness Center to get properly diagnosed and explore treatment options. Their compassionate team of physicians and nurses can help manage PCOS through lifestyle changes and medications.

Treatments for PCOS aim to manage and reduce symptoms while lowering the risk of long-term complications. Common options include:

• Birth control pills - To regulate menstrual cycles and suppress androgen production


• Metformin - An insulin sensitizer that can help with metabolic issues


• Anti-androgens - Medications that directly lower androgen levels


• Lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, and stress reduction

While there is no outright "cure" for PCOS, symptoms can often be well-controlled through proper medical treatment and self-care. Endocrine Wellness Center provides an integrated, holistic approach with cutting-edge therapies to help women take charge of PCOS. Schedule a risk-free consultation to learn more!