PCOS - Balance Hormone Institute

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting approximately 5-10% of women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS typically experience irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries.

Symptoms

The most common signs and symptoms of PCOS include:

• Irregular or absent periods: One of the hallmark symptoms of PCOS is irregular or missed menstrual cycles. This occurs due to abnormalities in ovulation.
• Excess androgen levels: Women with PCOS often have higher than normal levels of androgens like testosterone. This can cause symptoms like facial hair growth, scalp hair loss, and acne.
• Polycystic ovaries: Ultrasound imaging often reveals numerous small cysts on the ovaries, giving the condition its name. However, polycystic-appearing ovaries alone do not confirm PCOS.

Causes

The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but it often runs in families. Insulin resistance and inflammation may contribute to excess androgen production. Being overweight also exacerbates the condition.

Diagnosis

PCOS is diagnosed based on a combination of signs/symptoms, lab tests (like high testosterone), and ultrasound findings. Make sure to see your doctor and get properly evaluated. The experts at Balance Hormone Institute can provide cutting-edge testing and personalized treatment plans.

Treatment

While there's no cure for PCOS, symptoms can be managed with lifestyle changes and medications:

• Lifestyle changes: Losing weight through diet and exercise may help restore normal menstrual cycles and ovulation.
• Birth control pills: Oral contraceptives can regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels.
• Fertility medications: Medications like clomiphene can stimulate ovulation for improved fertility.
• Anti-androgens: Spironolactone or finasteride may be used to block excess androgen production.

The key is finding an integrative treatment plan tailored to your specific hormonal imbalances and symptoms. The innovative practitioners at Balance Hormone Institute utilize advanced testing to get to the root causes of hormonal issues like PCOS. Reach out for a consultation today!

I hope this overview on PCOS gives you a better understanding of this complex disorder. Let me know if you have any other questions!