PCOS

One out of every 10 women of childbearing age has polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The common gynecological condition affects hormone balance and metabolism. At Ogeechee OBGYN, with offices in Statesboro, Swainsboro, and Sylvania, Georgia, the team uses advanced diagnostic tools and treatments to help women with PCOS. To schedule an appointment, call the office or book online today.

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common health problem in women that develops from an imbalance in hormone production, and it affects normal ovulation.

When you don’t ovulate regularly, your ovaries develop small cysts. These cysts release hormones called androgens.

Androgens are male sex hormones like testosterone. Though all women have these male sex hormones, women with PCOS produce too much. High levels of androgens cause even more problems with ovulation.

Many women with PCOS also have insulin resistance. Insulin is a hormone that helps transport glucose from your blood into your cells to provide energy. Insulin resistance means the hormone isn’t working as it should.

Over time, blood insulin levels rise, which may then further increase androgen levels and increase your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. 

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

An irregular menstrual cycle is one of the telltale signs of PCOS. Women with PCOS may have fewer than eight periods a year. Other PCOS symptoms include:

• Excess hair on the face, chest, stomach, or legs
• Acne or oily skin
• Thinning hair on your head
• Weight gain
• Difficulty losing weight
• Pelvic pain
• Infertility

In addition to having a higher risk of diabetes, women with PCOS are also at greater risk of developing high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and heart disease. 

How is PCOS diagnosed?

There’s no single test to diagnose PCOS. The team at Ogeechee OBGYN conducts a thorough evaluation to rule out other causes before diagnosing you with PCOS.

During your exam, your provider asks detailed questions about your symptoms and your medical, gynecological, and family histories. They perform a physical and pelvic exam and may do an ultrasound to look for cysts on your ovaries and a blood test to check your hormone levels. 

How is PCOS treated?

Your provider at Ogeechee OBGYN develops an individualized treatment plan for you based on the severity of your symptoms and your personal preferences.

Treatment may include:

• A healthy diet
• A personalized exercise program
• Weight loss
• Hair removal treatments or medications to slow the growth of unwanted hair
• Hormonal birth control
• Anti-androgen medications

Though not FDA-approved for PCOS, your provider may prescribe metformin, which is a diabetes medication that improves insulin function.

PCOS affects fertility, and the team also provides specialized care for women struggling to get pregnant.

To schedule a consultation with the experienced team at Ogeechee OBGYN to learn more about PCOS, call the office or book an appointment online today.