PCOS

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting approximately 10% of women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS typically experience irregular periods, excess hair growth (hirsutism), and acne.

Key features of PCOS include:

• Irregular or absent periods: Women with PCOS often have irregular, infrequent, or prolonged menstrual cycles due to hormone imbalances. This can make getting pregnant difficult.


• Excess androgen levels: Women with PCOS tend to have higher than normal male hormone (androgen) levels. This can cause symptoms like facial hair growth, acne, and thinning hair.


• Polycystic ovarian morphology: Ultrasounds often show that women with PCOS have enlarged ovaries with small cysts (fluid-filled sacs). However, cysts do not occur in all cases.

While the exact cause is unknown, research suggests that genetics, insulin resistance, inflammation and abnormal fetal development may all play a role. PCOS is also associated with an increased risk for serious long-term health issues like diabetes, heart disease, endometrial cancer if not managed properly.

If you suspect you may have PCOS, make an appointment with your doctor. They can perform exams and lab tests to check for elevated androgen levels, irregular cycles, and cystic ovaries.

Lifestyle changes are the first line of treatment for PCOS:

• Nutritional supplements like inositol, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids can aid hormone regulation and menstrual cyclicity. Balance Hormone Institute provides supplement guidance based on each patient's lab results and symptoms.


• Stress management techniques help mitigate inflammation and balance hormones. Yoga, meditation, acupuncture, and counseling services are available through Balance Hormone Institute.

If symptoms persist despite lifestyle interventions, medications like metformin, spironolactone, or birth control pills may be considered to relieve symptoms and regulate cycles.