PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, interferes with your ovarian function, your fertility, and your ability to maintain a healthy weight. If you’re among the 10% of premenopausal women with the condition, the team at Poplar Avenue Clinic in Memphis, Tennessee, can help. If you have symptoms that suggest PCOS, call the office today to arrange an appointment or use the online tool.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a disease that affects a woman’s menstrual cycle, hormones, fertility, and heart and can also affect a woman’s appearance. Women with PCOS usually have higher levels of androgens, occasionally referred to as male hormones – even though both genders produce them – irregular or missed periods, and many small cysts in the ovaries.
While the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, it is believed to stem from a hormonal imbalance. Insulin is also believed to be a factor. In fact, increased insulin levels have been shown to increase a woman’s number of androgens. High levels of androgens can cause a woman to experience acne, excessive hair growth, problems with ovulating, and weight gain.
Symptoms for PCOS vary from woman to woman; however, they usually include:
Women with PCOS are more likely to be insulin resistant and are at greater risk of developing Type 2 diabetes at some point in their life.
If you’re experiencing any symptoms of PCOS, it’s time to call Poplar Avenue Clinic for an evaluation.
The team may suggest a simple blood test to check your hormone levels and an ultrasound to look for cysts on your ovaries to confirm a PCOS diagnosis.
While PCOS is incurable, there are many ways to manage the disorder. Changes in a woman’s lifestyle can help address issues of weight gain, and oral contraceptives can help to regulate a woman’s hormones.
Fertility medications are quite successful in helping a woman with PCOS ovulate if she wishes to become pregnant. The doctors may also prescribe medications to treat excess hair growth and extra androgens.
If you’re concerned that you might have PCOS, the team at Poplar Avenue Clinic can help. Call the office or request an appointment online today.
