Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a disease which changes a woman’s fertility, heart, menstrual cycle, hormones, and can even cause her appearance to change. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome generally have higher levels of androgens, occasionally referred to as male hormones even though both genders make them, irregular or missed periods, and many small cysts found the ovaries. Currently, the exact cause of polycystic ovary syndrome is not known, though it is believed to stem from hormonal imbalances. Insulin is also believed to affect the condition and increased levels have been shown to an increase in a woman’s quantity of androgens. High levels of androgens can cause a woman to have abnormal hair growth, acne, trouble with ovulating, and weight gain.
Symptoms usually differ from woman to woman, however they typically include:
While currently there isn’t a cure for polycystic ovary syndrome, there are many ways to treat the condition. Changes to the person’s lifestyle can help to address issues of weight gain and oral contraceptives can help to regulate female hormones. Fertility medications can assist a woman with polycystic ovary syndrome to ovulate if she wants to conceive and medications are available to treat the excess hair growth and extra androgens occurring with the condition. If you are concerned that you may have polycystic ovary syndrome, contact the office to schedule an appointment with the gynecologist. Treatment is available and can help patients to conceive and have regular menstruation.