PCOS - Balance Health Center

What is PCOS?

PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a common hormonal disorder that affects women. Some key facts about PCOS include:

• It results from a hormonal imbalance in the body, where the ovaries produce more androgens like testosterone than normal. This causes problems with ovulation, menstruation, and the development of cysts in the ovaries.
• Common symptoms of PCOS include irregular periods, excess facial or body hair growth (hirsutism), severe acne, weight gain, thinning hair or hair loss from the scalp (alopecia), and even skin tags.
• PCOS signs and symptoms often start shortly after the start of puberty. However, it can be difficult to diagnose, and some women only discover they have PCOS in their 20s or 30s.
• The exact cause is unknown, but genetics, insulin resistance, inflammation, and abnormal fetal development have all been linked to it.
• There's no cure yet, but managing symptoms is important. Lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, and stress management can help normalize hormones. Birth control pills are commonly prescribed to regulate periods, and medication like metformin may be used for diabetes risk.

How do doctors test for PCOS? There is no single test. Doctors typically do a pelvic exam to look for cysts, check blood hormone levels, and possibly an ultrasound of the ovaries. They also review symptoms and medical history.

Does PCOS put a woman at higher risk during pregnancy? Yes. The hormonal imbalances of PCOS can impact fertility and increase chances of issues like gestational diabetes or preeclampsia during pregnancy. Working with doctors early on and managing PCOS symptoms can help reduce risks.

Can lifestyle changes make a difference? Absolutely. Maintaining a healthy body weight, exercising regularly, following a PCOS-friendly anti-inflammatory diet, and finding healthy ways to cope with stress may all help alleviate common PCOS symptoms. Such lifestyle changes should be viewed as lifelong habits.

While living with PCOS can be challenging, women with this condition still go on to conceive children, maintain satisfying relationships, and lead full lives. Paying attention to both physical and emotional health makes a big difference. With proper understanding and management, PCOS does not have to define or limit a woman.