PCOS

What is PCOS?

PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a common hormonal disorder that affects women. Approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age have PCOS, making it one of the most common causes of infertility and menstrual problems in women.

The key features of PCOS include:

• Irregular periods or no periods at all


• Infertility or difficulty getting pregnant


• Excess androgens, primarily excess testosterone. This can cause symptoms like facial hair growth, scalp hair loss, acne, and ovarian cysts


• Often, but not always, insulin resistance and weight gain

The exact causes of PCOS are still unclear. Research suggests that genetics plays a major role. PCOS seems to run in families and has strong hereditary links.

Additionally, having too much of the hormone insulin can contribute to or worsen PCOS symptoms. Insulin helps control blood sugar levels, but women with PCOS often have insulin resistance, meaning their bodies cannot use this hormone effectively. As a result, insulin levels build up in the body and cause weight gain as well as excess testosterone.

Some key facts about PCOS include:

• It impacts women of reproductive age, usually appearing in the late teens or early 20s


• Treatments focus both on managing hormonal imbalance through medications like birth control pills or Metformin as well as lifestyle changes like weight management through diet and exercise


• When properly managed, many women with PCOS can achieve pregnancy either naturally or through fertility treatments


• Early diagnosis is key - seeing your doctor if you suspect PCOS can help create an appropriate treatment plan catered to your symptoms

If you are struggling with irregular periods, infertility, facial hair growth or scalp hair loss, be sure to talk to your doctor. They can do some simple tests to check for elevated androgen levels as well as ultrasounds to detect ovarian cysts. This will determine if PCOS is behind your symptoms.

"I struggled with irregular and painful periods for years before finally being diagnosed with PCOS in my 20s. Getting on the right hormonal birth control and Metformin medication has helped provide me menstrual regulation and relief from hair loss and acne. I wish I had gotten checked out sooner!" - Mary S.

Luckily, places like Hormone Harmony Clinic specialize in testing and treating hormone imbalance issues like PCOS through customized treatment plans to help regulate periods, manage excess hair growth, improve skin issues, regulate weight, and for some - make pregnancy possible! Their team stays up-to-date on the latest PCOS research and treatments options to provide exceptional care. So if you think you may have PCOS, don't wait to take control of your health - reach out today!