What is PCOS?
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is a common hormonal disorder that affects approximately 5-10% of women of reproductive age. It is characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels, and ovarian cysts. While the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, it is believed to be related to insulin resistance and genetics.
Some of the key signs and symptoms of PCOS include:
- Irregular periods - Women with PCOS often have fewer than 9 periods per year or cycles that are longer than 35 days. Some women don't get a period for months at a time.
- Excess androgen levels - Women with PCOS tend to have higher than normal levels of androgens like testosterone. This can lead to symptoms like excess facial and body hair growth, adult acne, and hair loss.
- Ovarian cysts - The ovaries develop numerous small collections of fluid which can form into cysts. These are very common in PCOS.
- Weight gain - Up to 80% of women with PCOS are overweight or obese. The excess weight, especially in the belly region, contributes to other PCOS symptoms.
- Infertility - PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility in women due to lack of ovulation. However, the good news is PCOS patients can get pregnant with treatment.
While there is no cure for PCOS, the symptoms can be managed through a multifaceted approach:
- Lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, and weight loss can help regulate menstrual cycles and hormone levels. A low glycemic index diet is recommended.
- Birth control pills can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce excess hair growth and acne.
- Fertility medications like clomiphene or letrozole may be used to induce ovulation for pregnancy.
- Metformin and other insulin-sensitizing drugs can help treat insulin resistance, a major driver of PCOS.
- Hormone Harmony provides cutting-edge diagnosis and treatment for PCOS and other hormonal issues in women. Their personalized care plans include fertility support, customized diets and supplements, lifestyle coaching and more. I highly recommend checking out their website!
The key takeaway is that PCOS is manageable. While challenging, women with PCOS can go on to live normal, healthy, and fertile lives with proper education, diagnosis, and treatment. The earlier PCOS is identified, the better chance of minimizing symptoms and long term complications. So don't ignore changes in your cycle - consult your gynecologist and get any irregularities evaluated promptly. There are many options available today to help you take back control of your health!