PCOS - Revive Hormone Specialists

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects women during their reproductive years. About 5-10% of women have PCOS.

Symptoms of PCOS typically start around puberty and can include:

• Irregular or absent periods: Women with PCOS often have fewer than 8 periods per year or cycles longer than 35 days.
• Excess androgen levels: Higher levels of androgens like testosterone lead to acne, excessive hair growth on the face and body, and thinning scalp hair.
• Ovarian cysts: Small fluid-filled sacs may develop in the ovaries.

While the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, it often runs in families. Insulin resistance also plays a key role - many women with PCOS are resistant to the effects of insulin in their body. This causes more insulin to be produced, which further exacerbates symptoms.

PCOS increases a woman's risk for other long-term health issues like:

• Type 2 diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Heart disease
• Endometrial cancer

If you suspect you have PCOS, make an appointment with your doctor. They can do an exam, take your medical history, check your hormone levels, and possibly do an ultrasound of your ovaries.

Lifestyle changes like eating healthy, exercising, and losing weight can help manage PCOS symptoms. Many women also need medications like birth control pills or drugs that improve insulin sensitivity. Our caring physicians at Revive Hormone Specialists specialize in holistic and personalized PCOS treatment plans to get your hormones back in balance. Call today to schedule a consultation!

I hope this overview on polycystic ovary syndrome was helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions.