PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is a common hormonal disorder that affects women. It can cause a variety of symptoms including:
- Irregular or missed menstrual cycles
- Excess androgen levels leading to symptoms like facial/body hair growth, acne, and thinning hair
- Ovarian cysts (fluid-filled sacs in the ovaries)
- Difficulty getting pregnant/fertility issues
- Weight gain/obesity
- Skin tags (excess flaps of skin)
The exact cause is unknown, but research suggests it's related to
insulin resistance and genetics. Women with PCOS often have higher levels of insulin, which can disrupt ovulation and cause the ovaries to produce more androgens like testosterone.
Why does this matter? Well, left untreated, PCOS can increase a woman's risk for other issues down the road:
- Diabetes
- Uterine cancer
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
Thankfully, there are treatments available to help manage PCOS symptoms! Common options include:
- Birth control pills - to regulate menstrual cycles and improve hormonal balance
- Anti-androgens like spironolactone to counteract excess hair growth/acne
- Metformin - manages elevated blood sugar and insulin levels
- Lifestyle changes like eating healthy, exercising regularly, and losing excess weight
The key is working closely with your doctor at Harmonize Wellness Clinic to figure out the root PCOS issues you're facing and how best to address them.