PCOS

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting approximately 5-10% of reproductive-aged women. Women with PCOS typically experience irregular menstrual cycles, excess hair growth (hirsutism), acne, and obesity.

Key features of PCOS include:

• Irregular or absent periods: Women with PCOS often have infrequent, irregular, or prolonged menstrual cycles due to lack of ovulation (anovulation). This occurs because hormone changes prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg each month.


• Excess androgen levels: Women with PCOS tend to have higher than normal levels of male hormones (androgens) like testosterone. This causes symptoms like facial/body hair growth and scalp hair loss.


• Polycystic ovarian morphology: Polycystic ovaries are enlarged and contain small collections of fluid (follicles). The follicles represent immature eggs that haven't been released.

While the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, it often runs in families. Weight gain and obesity tend to worsen PCOS symptoms. The disorder also leads to an increased risk of developing other health problems like diabetes, heart disease, depression, and endometrial cancer.

If you suspect you may have PCOS, make an appointment with your doctor or gynecologist. They can perform an evaluation, order blood tests, and make sure there are no other underlying causes for your symptoms.

If you're struggling with PCOS, the compassionate providers at Hormone Harmony Clinic can help. We specialize in customized natural hormone therapy to regulate menstrual cycles, minimize PCOS related symptoms, support fertility, and optimize patients’ overall health. Visit ]() today to learn more or book a consultation.

To diagnose PCOS, doctors typically check for at least two of the following:

• Irregular periods


• High androgen levels


• Polycystic ovaries on an ultrasound

They may also order labs to rule out other causes of irregular cycles and hormone disturbances.

Some frequently asked questions about PCOS include:

• Can you get pregnant with PCOS? Yes, many women with PCOS do get pregnant, especially with lifestyle modifications and treatment. But fertility issues are common due to lack of regular ovulation.


• Do you always have cysts with PCOS? No. Despite the name, you don't need to have actual ovarian cysts to have PCOS. The "polycystic" part describes the ovaries' appearance on ultrasound.


• Does PCOS go away with weight loss? Losing excess weight can help improve PCOS symptoms. However, the underlying disorder often persists to some degree and requires ongoing management.

The key is consulting a doctor for proper diagnosis and creating an individualized treatment plan based on your health, lifestyle, and goals. Treatment may include medications, supplements, diet changes, exercise, and natural therapies to regulate cycles and manage symptoms. The integrative providers at Hormone Harmony Clinic can help get to the root cause and craft a personalized solution. Visit ]() or book your FREE 15 minute consultation today!