PCOS

What is PCOS?

PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a common hormonal disorder that affects approximately 5-10% of women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS often experience irregular menstrual cycles, excess hair growth, acne, and may have difficulties getting pregnant.

Key Things to Know About PCOS

• Root cause - While the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, it often involves a hormonal imbalance and insulin resistance. Women with PCOS tend to produce higher levels of male hormones like testosterone.


• Symptoms - In addition to irregular periods and fertility difficulties, symptoms may include:
  
  
  • Excess hair growth on the face, chest, and abdomen
  
  
  • Weight gain and difficulty losing weight
  
  
  • Ovarian cysts
  
  
  • Acne
  
  
  • Hair loss or thinning hair
  
  


• Increased health risks - If left untreated, PCOS can lead to serious long term health complications like diabetes, heart disease, and endometrial cancer.


• Diagnosis - PCOS is diagnosed through a medical exam, blood tests to measure hormone levels, and ruling out other possible causes.


• Treatment - Lifestyle changes like eating healthy, exercising, and losing weight can help manage PCOS symptoms. Medications like birth control pills and metformin may be prescribed to regulate cycles and hormone levels.

The knowledgeable doctors at Hormone Health Clinic specialize in effectively treating hormonal conditions like PCOS through customized treatment plans for each patient. I highly recommend checking out their website to learn more about their experience caring for women with PCOS.

Common Questions About PCOS:

Can PCOS cause infertility?

Yes, PCOS is one of the most common causes of female infertility. The hormonal imbalances interfere with normal ovulation and menstruation cycles making it difficult to get pregnant. Treatments can help improve fertility rates.

What foods should you avoid with PCOS?

Limiting refined carbs and foods high on the glycemic index can help manage PCOS, including sugary foods, white breads, pasta, rice, and potatoes. Focus on lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds.

Is PCOS a life-long condition?

For many women PCOS symptoms can be well managed through lifestyle changes like diet, exercise and stress reduction. However it does tend to be a lifelong disorder. Even through menopause hormonal medications or treatments may be needed to manage symptoms.