As many as one in ten women of childbearing age suffer with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, (PCOS) a hormone disorder that’s marked by irregular periods, pelvic pain, weight gain, acne, excess facial and body hair, and infertility.
PCOS is usually diagnosed in women who have a chronic lack of ovulation, high levels of testosterone and multiple small cysts in their ovaries that prevent the release of an egg. This can cause irregular periods that make it difficult to become pregnant.
The hormone imbalance from PCOS can also cause physical changes such as severe acne, excess facial and body hair and even baldness. Skin in the neck and groin area and underneath the breast may also darken.
It’s believed that excess insulin production can raise the levels of testosterone and lead to PCOS. Also, if any of your family members has PCOS there is a greater chance that you will develop it.
PCOS often occurs along with metabolic syndrome and obesity when women have extra weight around the middle, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Each of these symptoms also raises the risk of heart disease.
When PCOS interferes with ovulation, it interrupts the usual hormonal cycle, leading to a thickening of the lining of the uterus and abnormal bleeding. Pre-cancerous changes or uterine cancer are also a risk.
PCOS is diagnosed by checking blood pressure, weight and body mass index and completing a pelvic exam along with a blood test to check hormone levels. Treatment usually includes lifestyle changes with a low-carbohydrate diet and moderate exercise to reduce weight and better control PCOS.
If you want to become pregnant, there are medications that can stimulate the growth of an egg. The use of oral contraceptives, patches or vaginal rings can reduce extra hair growth and acne and make menstrual periods more regular. Drugs that can improve insulin levels may also help to control blood sugar and weight and restore the normal menstrual cycle for women with PCOS.
Gynecology Care in Brownstown & Southgate, MI
Northline Women’s Health Center is here to serve you with any gynecology care needs with offices in Southgate and Brownstown. You can request an appointment at NorthlineWomensHealthCenter.com.
