Identifying & Treating Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

You may have heard of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It’s a condition that changes women’s hormone levels. The hormonal imbalance caused by PCOS may result in difficulty getting pregnant and abnormal hair growth, among other symptoms.

To learn more about PCOS, its possible causes, and how it may affect your everyday life, read on below.

What Are the Symptoms of PCOS?

The most common symptoms of PCOS are irregular, infrequent, or prolonged menstrual periods. Women suffering from PCOS may also experience hair loss, hair in undesirable areas (such as the face), and acne.

What Causes PCOS?

The exact cause of PCOS is unknown; however, these factors may play a role:

• Excess Insulin. If your cells become resistant to insulin's action, your body may produce more insulin than usual. This extra insulin may increase your androgen production.
• Low-Grade Inflammation. Women with PCOS tend to have low-grade inflammation that causes polycystic ovaries to produce androgens, leading to heart and blood vessel problems.

How Is PCOS Treated?

Treatment for PCOS varies from person to person. Your healthcare provider will take several factors into consideration, including your age, symptoms, and overall health. Your treatment will also depend significantly on whether you wish to become pregnant in the future.

If you are planning on getting pregnant, your treatment might include:

• Change in Activity and Diet. Increased physical activity and a healthy diet will help you lose weight and may reduce your symptoms.

• Ovulation-Inducing Medication. Some medications can help your ovaries release eggs normally; however, these medications also come with certain risks. Therefore, it is wise to consult your healthcare provider before beginning any medication.

If you aren’t planning on becoming pregnant, your treatment might include:

• Birth Control Pills. These pills help lower androgen levels, control menstrual cycles, and reduce acne.

• Diabetes Medication. These medications are used to lower insulin resistance in PCOS; furthermore, they may help slow hair growth, reduce levels of androgen, and aid in your regular ovulation.

Final Thoughts

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above and believe you may have PCOS, it is crucial that you visit a doctor at once for a proper diagnosis.

To reiterate, if you are in the Tri-cities (Richland, Pasco, Kennewick) and are experiencing infertility or are showing signs of excess androgen -- like male-pattern baldness and acne -- you should contact Complete Healthcare for Women today for OB-GYN services.

If you need services ranging from obstetrics to gynecology in the Tri-cities (Pasco, Kennewick, Richland) or simply want a check-up for your peace of mind, contact Complete Healthcare for Women today and work with Richard Lorenzo, DO, and female provider Kortney Jones, ARNP (509) 392-6700.

References

John Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.-b). Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos

Johnson, T. C. (2017, April 21). Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/women/what-is-pcos

Mayo Clinic Staff. (2020, October 3). Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) - Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pcos/symptoms-causes/syc-20353439#:%7E:text=Polycystic%20ovary%20syndrome%20(PCOS)%20is,fail%20to%20regularly%20release%20eggs.

Watson, S. (2021, April 19). Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/polycystic-ovary-disease

Complete Healthcare for Women - Obstetrics and Gynecology

(509) 392-6700

Richard Lorenzo, D.O.

Kortney Jones ARNP

Author

Richard Lorenzo, DO Dr. Lorenzo is a Fellow of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOOG), reflecting his expertise in women’s health. He provides comprehensive gynecological and obstetric services, including prenatal care up to 20 weeks, infertility evaluations, and general gynecology. Dr. Lorenzo specializes in advanced surgical techniques, offering minimally invasive procedures for abnormal uterine bleeding, endometriosis, and hysterectomy, ensuring quicker recovery and minimal discomfort for his patients. He is highly trained in high-risk obstetrics and adept at performing minimally invasive hysterectomies, providing women with effective solutions tailored to their needs. At Complete Healthcare for Women in Richland, WA, Dr. Lorenzo prioritizes personalized, compassionate care, empowering women to make informed health decisions.