What is PCOS?

What is PCOS? by Dr. Tamara

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a female reproductive health condition in which the ovaries contain a large number of small cysts. The cysts develop due to a problem with ovulation, caused by a hormonal imbalance the woman’s levels of estrogen and progesterone. With PCOS, women develop cysts due to ova/eggs not being released over time. The follicles keep growing and form multiple cysts. Most women find out they have PCOS in their 20s and 30s, when they have problems getting pregnant however PCOS can happen at any age after puberty. Although the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, experts believe it's linked to genetics. Symptoms of PCOS may begin shortly after puberty. Because symptoms of PCOS may be linked to other conditions, oftentimes PCOS may be misdiagnosed or undiagnosed. Symptoms include but are not limited too: irregular or missed periods, pelvic pain, unexplained hair growth, fatigue, acne, problems sleeping, unexplained weight gain, difficulty losing weight, infertility etc. There is not a specific test to diagnose PCOS. If PCOS is suspected, your physician will start with a discussion of your medical history, including your menstrual cycles, changes in weight, increase acne or hair. He or she will also do a physical pelvic examination, complete blood work up and an ultrasound to evaluate the ovaries. Your physician may also refer you to a hormone specialist to help direct the work-up needed to rule out other causes and confirm the diagnosis of PCOS. Unfortunately, there is no cure for PCOS, however there are many ways to treat PCOS to help you feel better by managing symptoms. Your physician will develop a treatment plan based on your symptoms, your plans for children, and your risk for long-term health problems such as diabetes and heart disease. Treatment options may include: medical management via combination birth control pills, progestin therapy, anti-androgen medicines, etc. Other treatment options include lifestyle changes such as: low calorie diet, weigh loss, or low to moderate exercise, etc. Although there is no way to prevent the development of PCOS, becoming intimately acquainted with your body and regular annual gynecologic examinations can help to detect any changes in ovaries.