Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
PCOS is a hormonal condition that causes irregular and heavy periods. The hormonal imbalance can lead to problems in your ovaries that prevent regular monthly ovulation. Approximately, one in every 10 women of childbearing age has PCOS and experiences symptoms that include:
- Infrequent periods (less than eight in a calendar year)
- Heavy and long-lasting periods
- Hirsutism (excess body or facial hair)
- Acne
- Weight gain
- Thinning hair
If you’re concerned about irregular periods and are experiencing other symptoms associated with PCOS, contact the team at Columbia Fertility Associates. Even if you’re not concerned about fertility, you should get medical treatment for PCOS as it can lead to complications like metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and sleep apnea.
PCOS Q & A
What Causes PCOS?
While the precise cause of PCOS isn’t fully understood, several factors increase your chances of developing the condition. Ultimately, conditions that stimulate androgen production increase your risk of PCOS.
Medical research shows that your genes play a role, and if a member of your family has PCOS, your risk of having the condition is higher.
It’s also believed that having high insulin levels can increase the production of androgen hormones, which contribute to the hormonal imbalance behind PCOS. Similarly, chronic low-grade inflammation is known to trigger androgen production.
How is PCOS Diagnosed?
If you think you have PCOS, make an appointment with the experts at Columbia Fertility Associates. The doctors provide comprehensive exams, including blood work, to check your hormone and glucose levels. They may also order an ultrasound to check the appearance of your ovaries for multiple cysts and the thickness of your uterine lining
How is PCOS Treated?
The team at Columbia Fertility Associates provides a variety of treatments for PCOS, including lifestyle modifications and medications.
Many women find their hormones balance and their symptoms subside when they lose weight. Your doctor can help you make dietary changes and increase your activity levels. Eating a low-sugar and reduced carbohydrate diet combined with regular physical exercise can regulate your insulin and hormone levels.
Your doctor may also prescribe oral contraceptives to regulate your hormones and menstrual cycles or medication to stimulate ovulation like ClomidⓇ, gonadotropin, and metformin.
Call Columbia Fertility Associates to schedule an appointment today for expert medical care for PCOS.