Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

At Complete Healthcare for Women, we are committed to providing comprehensive care for women with PCOS. In this blog, we will discuss the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for managing PCOS.

What is PCOS?

PCOS is a condition characterized by hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles, and the presence of multiple small cysts on the ovaries. The exact cause of PCOS is not known, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Symptoms of PCOS

The symptoms of PCOS can vary widely from woman to woman. Common symptoms include:

• Irregular Periods: Women with PCOS may experience infrequent, irregular, or prolonged menstrual cycles.
• Excess Hair Growth: Known as hirsutism, this involves excessive hair growth on the face, chest, back, or other areas.
• Acne and Oily Skin: Increased androgen levels can lead to severe acne and oily skin.
• Weight Gain: Many women with PCOS struggle with weight gain and difficulty losing weight.
• Thinning Hair: Hair loss or thinning on the scalp, also known as male-pattern baldness.
• Darkening of the Skin: Dark patches of skin, particularly around the neck, groin, and under the breasts.
• Polycystic Ovaries: Enlarged ovaries containing numerous small cysts.

Diagnosing PCOS

There is no single test to diagnose PCOS. A diagnosis is typically based on the presence of at least two of the following criteria:

1. Irregular Periods: Menstrual irregularities, such as infrequent or prolonged menstrual cycles.
2. Excess Androgens: Elevated levels of male hormones, which may be indicated by physical signs such as hirsutism or acne.
3. Polycystic Ovaries: Detected by ultrasound, showing multiple small cysts on the ovaries.

To diagnose PCOS, your healthcare provider may perform the following tests:

• Physical Exam: Including checking for signs of excess hair growth, acne, and other symptoms.
• Blood Tests: To measure hormone levels, including androgens and insulin.
• Ultrasound: To examine the ovaries for cysts and check the thickness of the uterine lining.

Treatment Options for PCOS

While there is no cure for PCOS, there are several treatment options available to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These include:

1. Lifestyle Changes:

• Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help manage weight and reduce symptoms.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity can help control weight, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce symptoms.
• Weight Loss: Even a modest reduction in weight can help regulate menstrual cycles and improve symptoms.

2. Medications:

• Birth Control Pills: Combined oral contraceptives can regulate menstrual cycles, reduce androgen levels, and improve acne.
• Anti-Androgen Medications: These medications can help reduce hair growth and acne.
• Metformin: A medication used to treat type 2 diabetes, which can help improve insulin resistance and regulate menstrual cycles.
• Clomiphene: A medication used to induce ovulation in women who are trying to conceive.

3. Fertility Treatments:

• Ovulation Induction: Medications such as clomiphene or letrozole can stimulate ovulation.
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): IVF may be recommended for women who do not respond to other fertility treatments.

4. Surgical Options:

• Ovarian Drilling: A laparoscopic procedure that can stimulate ovulation by reducing androgen levels.

Conclusion

Managing PCOS requires a comprehensive approach tailored to each woman’s individual needs. At Complete Healthcare for Women, we are dedicated to providing personalized care and support for women with PCOS. If you are experiencing symptoms of PCOS, schedule a consultation with our experienced team to explore your treatment options and take control of your health.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us:

Complete Healthcare for Women - Obstetrics and Gynecology
509-392-6700
Richard Lorenzo, D.O.
Kortney Jones ARNP

Author

Kortney Jones, ARNP Kortney Jones is board-certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners. She provides OB/GYN services, including birth control, pregnancy and prenatal care, and infertility, as well as gynecological services, such as women’s health and wellness, abnormal uterine bleeding, weight loss, pellet hormone therapy, and menopause.