What is PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS is a condition in which you make excessive male hormones (androgens). While women normally have very small amounts of androgens, when you have PCOS, you produce such a large amount that it causes difficult physical symptoms.
Many women with PCOS develop small cysts within their ovaries, but it doesn’t occur in all cases of PCOS.
What symptoms does PCOS cause?
PCOS symptoms often start in the adolescent and teenage years, usually with a girl’s first period. But, some women develop PCOS later, and it can happen at any point during your childbearing years. Most women discover that they have PCOS in their 20s or 30s.
Common PCOS symptoms include:
- Irregular menstruation – sporadic or too-frequent periods
- Hirsutism – excessive hair on the chin, chest, and back (areas where men grow hair)
- Acne and oily skin
- Weight gain
- Hair loss – male pattern baldness
- Skin tags on the neck or under the arms
- Skin darkening in the groin, under breasts, or neck creases
- Infertility or difficulty conceiving a baby
Some women with PCOS may also experience pelvic pain, although it’s uncommon.
As many as 80% of women with PCOS struggle with their weight. Women with PCOS are four times more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes than women without PCOS.
How is PCOS diagnosed?
Mr. Rauda carefully reviews all of your symptoms and your medical history. He performs a pelvic exam and also looks for other telltale symptoms of PCOS, such as hirsutism and hair loss.
You may need lab tests to check your androgen, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels, and other important aspects of your health. You may also need an ultrasound exam, which allows Mr. Rauda to see your ovaries and check for cysts.
How is PCOS treated?
PCOS treatment can vary with your symptoms, whether you want to have a baby, whether you have other health issues like diabetes, and other factors specific to you. Some common treatments include:
- Birth control pills
- Insulin-sensitizing drugs
- Weight loss
- Nutrition changes
- Ovulation-stimulating medications if you’re trying to conceive
- Symptom-specific medications for hair loss and acne
Mr. Rauda understands the frustrations and discomfort that PCOS can cause, and he’s here to support you and guide you to a healthy life. Book your appointment by clicking on the scheduling link or call Rose Midwifery & Women’s Health today.