Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age. It impacts how the ovaries function, often causing irregular periods, elevated androgen (male hormone) levels, and the development of multiple small cysts on the ovaries. PCOS can influence your menstrual cycle, skin, weight, and fertility—but with the right care, symptoms can be effectively managed, and long-term health risks reduced.

What Is PCOS?

PCOS is a complex condition involving hormonal imbalance and irregular ovulation. Although the exact cause is unknown, it’s commonly linked to increased levels of androgens and insulin resistance.

Most patients are diagnosed with PCOS when they meet at least two of the following criteria:

• Irregular or absent periods (anovulation)
• Elevated androgen levels (by lab testing or visible symptoms)
• Enlarged ovaries with multiple small follicles seen on ultrasound

Because PCOS presents differently for each individual, diagnosis and treatment are always tailored to the patient’s symptoms and goals.

Common Symptoms of PCOS

PCOS symptoms can begin during adolescence but may appear later as well. Common signs include:

• Irregular or missed menstrual cycles
• Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism)
• Acne or oily skin
• Thinning hair or scalp hair loss
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Darkened patches of skin (acanthosis nigricans)
• Difficulty conceiving

Some women experience only mild symptoms, while others may face multiple challenges that affect daily life, confidence, and fertility.

What Causes PCOS

The precise cause of PCOS isn’t fully understood, but several contributing factors have been identified:

• Insulin resistance: Excess insulin increases androgen production, disrupting ovulation
• Genetics: PCOS tends to run in families
• Hormonal imbalance: Elevated androgen and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels play a major role

Lifestyle and environmental factors may also contribute to the condition’s development and severity.

Long-Term Health Risks

Without treatment, PCOS can increase the risk of:

• Type 2 diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol and heart disease
• Endometrial hyperplasia or cancer due to unopposed estrogen
• Sleep apnea
• Depression and anxiety

Early diagnosis and proactive management can reduce these risks and improve overall well-being.

How Is PCOS Diagnosed

There is no single test for PCOS. Diagnosis typically involves:

• A comprehensive review of symptoms and menstrual history
• Blood tests to evaluate hormone and insulin levels
• Pelvic ultrasound to assess the ovaries and uterus
• Testing to rule out other endocrine conditions

At Care for Womens Medical Group, we focus on understanding your unique symptom pattern to develop a personalized plan that addresses both immediate and long-term health needs.

Treatment Options

While PCOS cannot be cured, symptoms can be managed effectively through lifestyle changes and medical therapy.

Lifestyle Support:

• Nutrition guidance and sustainable weight management
• Regular exercise to improve insulin sensitivity
• Stress reduction and adequate sleep

Medications:

• Birth control pills to regulate cycles and lower androgen levels
• Metformin to improve insulin resistance and cycle regularity
• Anti-androgen medications to reduce acne and hair growth
• Fertility medications such as letrozole or clomiphene for those trying to conceive

Procedures (if indicated):

• Ovarian drilling in select fertility cases
• Dermatologic treatments for acne or unwanted hair

Each treatment plan is customized—whether your goals are improving fertility, regulating periods, or managing cosmetic concerns.

PCOS and Fertility

PCOS is one of the leading causes of ovulation-related infertility, but with the right approach, many women are able to conceive successfully. Fertility treatment options may include:

• Ovulation induction with oral or injectable medications
• Ultrasound and lab monitoring of ovulation cycles
• Referral to a fertility specialist or reproductive endocrinologist if needed

Even if pregnancy isn’t an immediate goal, regulating your menstrual cycles helps preserve fertility and prevent long-term complications.

Get the Support You Deserve

PCOS can be complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Care for Womens Medical Group, our providers offer compassionate, evidence-based care to help you feel better, restore balance, and protect your long-term health.

Schedule an appointment with Care for Womens Medical Group today to discuss your PCOS symptoms and create a personalized plan that fits your life.