Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common, nonpreventable cause of female infertility that is characterized by a hormonal imbalance. This condition has no cure, so the goal of treatment is to manage symptoms and improve fertility if you want to get pregnant. If you have PCOS, pregnancy is possible with proper treatment.

A Beaufort Memorial OBGYN can determine whether you have PCOS and recommend treatment, including options to promote pregnancy. Find an OBGYN.

What Is PCOS?

PCOS occurs when reproductive hormones fall out of balance, affecting the ovaries. Instead of producing and releasing an egg monthly, as is typical during menstruation, eggs may undergo abnormal development or fail to release during ovulation. That can lead cysts to form on the ovaries.

What Causes PCOS?

The cause of PCOS remains unknown, but some evidence suggests it runs in families. Besides genetics, other likely contributors are overproduction of androgens, which are male hormones that women's bodies typically produce in small amounts, and insulin resistance, which is when the body has trouble using the hormone insulin to help convert sugar into energy.

Risk factors for PCOS include obesity and having a close female relative who has had PCOS. Stress, lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise, and pollution are also thought to increase a woman's risk.

Symptoms of PCOS include:

• Acne
• Anxiety
• Darkening areas of skin on the neck, underneath the breasts or in the groin
• Depression
• Difficulty getting pregnant
• Excess hair growth on the face, breasts, chest, stomach or legs
• Hair loss or thinning on the head
• Irregular menstrual periods
• Pelvic pain
• Skin tags on the neck or underarms
• Weight gain

PCOS Diagnosis

Diagnosing PCOS starts with a medical history and physical exam. Your OBGYN will ask about any medical conditions you have, the medications you take and your symptoms, including an unpredictable menstrual cycle or erratic menstrual periods. Your provider will conduct a physical exam to check typical health markers, such as blood pressure, and look for symptoms of PCOS mentioned above. A pelvic exam helps him or her look for additional indicators of PCOS, such as swollen ovaries.

You may need to have an ultrasound, which can show ovarian cysts. Blood tests may be necessary to check your androgen levels.

Treatment for PCOS

Lifestyle changes, such as performing regular physical activity and following a healthy, balanced diet, can help you lose weight. That can allow your body to use insulin and regulate hormones more effectively, help stabilize your menstrual cycle, and promote pregnancy if you're trying to have a baby.

Medications can play a key role in managing PCOS symptoms and promoting fertility. You may need to take medications to treat high androgen levels and manage insulin resistance. If you're not trying to get pregnant, birth control pills or other forms of contraception can treat irregular periods and other symptoms. If you're trying to have a baby, additional options are available, including in vitro fertilization and medication and surgery to assist with ovulation.

PCOS can increase the risk of several health problems, including diabetes and heart disease. It's important to work with your primary care provider to undergo regular health screenings and manage chronic conditions.