PCOS

What is polycystic ovary syndrome?

PCOS is primarily a condition of hormonal imbalance. The underlying cause of the symptoms associated with this condition is due to an imbalance in the production of several key hormones responsible for healthy ovarian function.

Progesterone and androgen

These are actually male hormones, both of which your body normally produces in small quantities. If your body produces too much of these hormones, they can negatively affect your reproductive health.

Insulin

This hormone is responsible for healthy glucose metabolism, but when your body overproduces insulin, it causes an increase in the production of androgens (along with other significant problems).

Because of the increased androgens, the ovaries can’t function properly, negatively affecting the reproduction process. This is why most women who suffer from PCOS are of childbearing age and why symptoms can start as early as puberty.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

Because many symptoms of PCOS are similar to other disorders, you may not know you have this disorder until you are unable to get pregnant or until you notice a significant irregularity in your periods.

Some symptoms that you may notice that can be connected to PCOS include:

• Inability to get pregnant
• Irregular or missing periods
• Ovarian cysts
• Unwanted or excess hair growth, especially on your face
• Weight gain
• Mood changes
• Acne
• Thinning hair or baldness

Despite the name (polycystic ovary syndrome), not every woman with PCOS has ovarian cysts. You may have all or just a few of these symptoms.

How do you diagnose and treat PCOS?

Dr. Amersi is an expert in women’s health and has extensive experience in the diagnosis and individualized treatment of PCOS. She may use these or other diagnostic methods to rule out or confirm a diagnosis of PCOS:

• Health history
• Physical exam (including a pelvic exam)
• Blood tests
• Ultrasound

Treatment options are often determined by which symptoms are the most difficult for you or which need the most attention for your overall health. Dr. Amersi may recommend:

• Weight-loss counseling
• Medication (for acne or excess hair)
• Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (pregnancy or irregular periods)

Dr. Amersi works with you to create an individualized treatment plan that speaks to the symptoms of PCOS that affect your overall health the most.

If you’re experiencing troublesome symptoms of PCOS, call the office or request a consultation online today.