PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) support and treatment

What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a condition that affects women’s hormones, causing irregular periods and other symptoms when left untreated. It affects the ovaries, causing them to create excess hormones (androgens), leading to imbalanced reproductive hormones. Fortunately, seeking treatment for PCOS can ease unpleasant symptoms and help restore fertility.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

PCOS can cause the following signs and symptoms:

• Irregular menstrual periods
• Lack of ovulation
• Infertility
• Excess facial or body hair growth
• Acne
• Obesity
• Darker skin patches
• Ovarian cysts
• Irregular ovulation 
• Thinning hair
• Skin tags

PCOS also increases the risk of specific health conditions, including high blood pressure and diabetes. However, not everyone with PCOS has noticeable symptoms — at least not initially. 

When not addressed, PCOS increases the risk of pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm birth.  

What are the risk factors for PCOS?

While the exact cause of PCOS isn’t entirely understood, common risk factors include:

• Being a woman of childbearing age
• Obesity
• Family history of PCOS
• Higher levels of androgens
• Chronic low-grade inflammation
• Insulin resistance 

About 40%-80% of women with PCOS are classified as obese and have difficulty maintaining an ideal body weight. 

How is PCOS diagnosed?

The Transcend Total Body Rejuvenation specialists review your medical history and symptoms to diagnose PCOS. They also complete a physical exam and order blood tests to assess your hormone levels and determine how to best treat your condition. You might also need a pelvic exam and an ultrasound to view your ovaries, uterus, and other reproductive organs. 

How is PCOS treated?

Treating PCOS may consist of one or more of the following:

• Medications
• Hormone treatments
• Medically supervised weight loss
• Lifestyle changes

It’s helpful to eat nutritious foods, exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and maintain an ideal body weight to better balance hormones. If you need fertility treatment to become pregnant, the Transcend Total Body Rejuvenation team offers referrals. 

You can also get laser hair removal at Transcend Total Body Rejuvenation if abnormal hair growth on nearly any area of your body because of PCOS bothers you.

While there’s no cure for PCOS, your Transcend Total Body Rejuvenation provider can help you effectively manage any symptoms and lessen the risk of complications. Call the office at any time with questions. 

Schedule a PCOS evaluation at Transcend Total Body Rejuvenation by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.