PCOS - Equilibrium Hormone Clinic

PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is a common hormone disorder that affects women during their reproductive years. Some key facts about PCOS:

• It impacts 5-10% of women globally and can cause a range of symptoms including irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, and weight gain/trouble losing weight
• The exact cause is unknown but research shows it's related to insulin resistance and excess androgen production
• There is no cure yet but symptoms can be managed through lifestyle changes and medications

Diagnosing PCOS PCOS is diagnosed based on a combination of signs and symptoms, as well as blood tests and/or ultrasound of the ovaries:

• Irregular, infrequent, or prolonged menstrual cycles - this is the hallmark of PCOS
• High levels of male hormones (androgens) like testosterone
• Ovarian cysts - fluid-filled sacs in the ovaries identified on ultrasound
• Increased insulin resistance

Note: patients need to display at least 2 of the above criteria to be definitively diagnosed with PCOS per international guidelines Common Signs & Symptoms

• Menstrual irregularities - absent/light periods or heavy/prolonged bleeding
• Hirsutism - excessive hair growth on body/face
• Alopecia - hair thinning/balding on scalp
• Acne
• Obesity/weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Darkening skin (acanthosis nigricans)

In addition to the outward physical symptoms, PCOS raises risks for serious long term health issues like:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Heart disease
• Endometrial cancer
• Infertility and pregnancy complications

So early intervention and management is important for women with PCOS. Treating PCOS There's no definitive cure yet, but symptoms can be managed through lifestyle adjustments and medications:

• Weight loss for overweight women - even shedding 5% body weight can help regulate menstrual cycles
• Nutritional diet lower in refined carbs/sugar
• Exercise helps insulin sensitivity and regulates cycles
• Birth control pills or other hormonal medications treat acne, excess hair growth, and stabilize menstrual cycles
• Fertility treatments can help women with PCOS get pregnant

While living with PCOS has its challenges, the condition can be managed in most patients through the appropriate individualized treatment plan. Being informed and proactive are key to taking control over symptoms.