What is polycystic ovary syndrome?
PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a hormonal disorder that affects women during their reproductive years. PCOS is a gynecological condition resulting in prolonged menstruation and higher levels of androgens, or male hormones.
Most cases of PCOS involve the ovaries developing follicles or small collections of fluid buildup that impede the proper release of eggs.
What are the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome?
The symptoms of PCOS include:
- Oversized polycystic ovaries consisting of follicles surrounding the eggs
- Infrequent, irregular, prolonged, or abnormally heavy menstruation
- Excess levels of male hormones that can lead to moderate to severe acne, excess facial and body hair, and baldness
The symptoms of PCOS usually happen during puberty or the first menstrual cycle. PCOS can occur later and has been associated with excess weight gain.
What causes polycystic ovary syndrome?
The cause of PCOS isn’t exactly clear. Some factors appear to play a part, such as:
- Excess insulin hormone
- Low-grade inflammation
- Excess androgen male hormones
- Genetics
- Obesity
PCOS can lead to a number of complications, including:
- Diabetes and gestational diabetes
- Miscarriage, infertility, and premature birth
- Sleep apnea
- Metabolic syndrome
- Liver inflammation
- Abnormal uterine bleeding
- Endometrial cancer
- Eating disorders
Many women with PCOS also experience depression and anxiety.
How is polycystic ovary syndrome diagnosed?
Your Jersey Women’s Care Center provider usually diagnoses PCOS with effective methods, such as:
- Transvaginal ultrasound
- Discussion of medical history
- Physical exam
- Pelvic exam
You’re also sent for lab work and blood work to detect certain hormone levels and other important and indicative factors.
What are the treatments for polycystic ovary syndrome?
The Jersey Women’s Care Center providers offer various treatments and ways to manage PCOS, such as:
- Nutrition to help regulate insulin
- Exercise to decrease androgen production
- Weight loss, if needed
- Contraception (such as combination birth control pills that contain both estrogen and progestin)
- Other medications
Treatment is centered around managing your individual concerns, such as obesity or acne. Lifestyle changes paired with the right medications can make a big difference for your PCOS. Even a modest reduction of weight (as little as 5% of your body weight) can improve your condition.
To help regulate your menstrual cycle, your Jersey Women’s provider may recommend certain medications or treatments, such as a combination of birth control pills or progestin therapy.
If the many symptoms of PCOS are plaguing you, visit Jersey Women’s Care Center for treatments for acne, fatigue, pelvic pain, and other symptoms. Start by booking your consultation online or call the office today.
