As many as one in 10 reproductive-aged women have a condition called polycystic ovary syndrome, also known as PCOS, but more than half of women with the condition go undiagnosed. PCOS may have serious side effects, ranging from excessive hair growth to infertility. Dr. Elizabeth Couch-Harris, OB-GYN provider with Utica Park Clinic, explains the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment for this often-misunderstood condition.
What is PCOS?:
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age. It’s caused by higher-than-normal levels of androgens (male hormones) and often involves insulin resistance. This can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle and ovulation and sometimes lead to painful cysts on the ovaries.
Symptoms include:
- Irregular or absent periods
- Weight gain
- Insulin resistance
- Acne and oily skin
- Excessive body and facial hair (hirsutism)
- Difficulty conceiving
- Cysts on ovaries
Diagnosis:
Your gynecologist or primary care provider can diagnose PCOS using the Rotterdam criteria, which requires at least two of the three following features:
- Irregular periods
- Hyperandrogenism (which can manifest as excess hair and acne)
- Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound
Your provider may do a blood test and pelvic ultrasound to determine if you have PCOS and how severe it may be.
Treatment:
There is no cure for PCOS, and treatment is often centered on managing symptoms through lifestyle changes, medication and surgery. Common treatments include:
- Weight loss to improve insulin sensitivity
- Oral contraceptives to regulate hormones, improve menstrual cycles and reduce acne
- Ovulation-stimulating medication to improve fertility for women trying to conceive
- Surgery may be necessary in rare cases to remove cysts from the ovaries
If you think you have PCOS, talk with a doctor who can help you determine proper symptom management. New and returning patients can make an appointment with Dr. Couch-Harris here, or call 918-579-DOCS (3627) to find a provider near you. Click here to learn more about women’s reproductive health care at Utica Park Clinic.