Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects millions, yet many misconceptions still surround this...
Read MorePolycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition that affects up to 13 percent of women and those assigned female at birth of reproductive age. If you’re struggling with PCOS, we understand your challenges and are here to provide compassionate, experienced care to help you manage your condition and improve your quality of life.
What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a chronic hormonal condition where the ovaries produce an abnormal amount of androgens, which are male sex hormones. This imbalance can interfere with the development and release of eggs during ovulation.
PCOS often leads to multiple cysts forming on the ovaries. These small cysts are immature eggs unreleased during ovulation, causing the ovaries to enlarge and contain follicles that surround the eggs. This enlargement can prevent regular ovulation, causing irregular menstrual cycles and a range of other symptoms.
PCOS can also affect insulin levels, leading to insulin resistance, a condition where the body responds less effectively to insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. Over time, insulin resistance can lead to higher insulin levels in the blood, which is associated with weight gain and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
What are the Symptoms of PCOS?
PCOS can cause a variety of symptoms that vary in severity from person to person. These symptoms may include:
- Pelvic pain
- Headaches
- Infertility or difficulty conceiving
- Hair thinning or male-pattern baldness
- Acne, oily skin or other skin conditions
- Mood changes, including depression and anxiety
- Darkening of the skin, particularly along neck creases, in the groin and underneath the breasts (called acanthosis nigricans)
- Excessive weight gain or difficulty losing weight, especially around the midsection
- Excess hair growth on the face, chest, abdomen or back (called hirsutism)
How is PCOS Diagnosed?
Diagnosing PCOS involves a medical history assessment, physical examination and diagnostic tests. Your doctor may perform a pelvic exam to check for any physical signs such as ovarian enlargement or cysts. They may also order blood tests to measure your hormone levels and rule out other conditions with similar symptoms. Your doctor may also recommend an ultrasound to examine your ovaries for the presence of cysts or follicles.
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PCOS Treatment Options
Lifestyle Modifications
Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and a balanced diet can help manage PCOS symptoms. Weight management can improve insulin sensitivity and hormone balance, reducing the severity of symptoms like irregular periods and excess hair growth.
Medication for PCOS
Certain medications can address specific PCOS symptoms. Hormonal contraceptives can regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels, while insulin-sensitizing medications like metformin can improve insulin resistance and help with weight management.
Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)
For those experiencing PCOS-related fertility issues , your doctor may recommend ovulation induction or in vitro fertilization (IVF). These treatments aim to stimulate ovulation and increase the chances of conception, providing a path to achieving pregnancy.
Our Approach to PCOS Treatment
We believe in a comprehensive approach to managing PCOS. Our multidisciplinary team, including experienced endocrinologists, OB/GYNs and fertility specialists, collaborates to provide personalized care tailored to your needs.
Our doctors work alongside you to develop a customized treatment plan to target your symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. We understand the challenges associated with PCOS and emphasize a compassionate approach to care. Our goal is to alleviate your symptoms and improve your well-being through lifestyle modifications, medication and, if necessary, advanced reproductive technologies.
At Inspira, we see you as an individual with unique concerns and goals. Whether you're seeking relief from irregular menstrual cycles, managing infertility or addressing other symptoms like excess hair growth or acne, our team is dedicated to supporting you.
