Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal imbalance affecting about 10% of women in the United States. Many women with PCOS have too many androgens, or male hormones. The expert team of providers at Oakland Macomb Obstetrics & Gynecology, P.C., can help you manage this condition to alleviate your symptoms and restore your quality of life. Call the office nearest you in Rochester Hills or Troy, Michigan, or book your appointment online today for more information about the evaluation and treatment of PCOS.

What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

PCOS is diagnosed when you have an imbalance of reproductive hormones that negatively affects your ovaries and metabolism. 

When the ovaries aren’t functioning properly, you may not release an egg during your monthly ovulation, affecting your fertility, ovarian health, and menstruation.  

Women with PCOS can sometimes also have an abundance of male hormones, which can lead to unwanted hair growth, weight gain, and insulin resistance. PCOS can cause long-term health complications, including heart disease and diabetes.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

PCOS may cause menstrual irregularities. You may have periods that come more frequently than every 28 days, or you may have fewer than eight cycles per year. Some women with PCOS have no periods whatsoever, known as amenorrhea.

You may also experience additional uncomfortable symptoms with PCOS, including:

• Acne

• Excessive hair growth in areas men usually develop hair such as the chin or chest (hirsutism)

• Darkening of the skin in the creases, such as your elbows and groin

• Thinning hair that mimics male-pattern baldness

• Infertility

• Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, consult the team at Oakland Macomb Obstetrics & Gynecology, P.C., for a hormone evaluation.

What causes PCOS?

The causes of PCOS are not well understood, but they can be due to your genetics. Sometimes, PCOS starts with excess insulin, a hormone that helps your cells process sugar for energy.

Excess insulin can result due to Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes. Because of the excess insulin, your body produces an overload of androgen hormones and you develop PCOS.

How is PCOS managed?

While PCOS can’t be cured, the symptoms can be effectively managed. The team at Oakland Macomb Obstetrics & Gynecology, P.C., treats your individual symptoms and issues.

Your provider may recommend lifestyle changes, such as weight loss if you’re overweight, and medications to reduce insulin resistance. They might offer hormonal treatments in the form of birth control pills that contain estrogen and progesterone to help put your androgen levels in balance.

Additionally, Oakland Macomb Obstetrics & Gynecology, P.C., offers fertility services if you’re having trouble getting pregnant.

To learn more about PCOS and effective treatments, call Oakland Macomb Obstetrics & Gynecology, P.C., or book an appointment online today.