Have you heard of polycystic ovary syndrome? Also known as PCOS, this condition impacts one out of every 10 women of childbearing age in the United States. Menstrual changes, infertility and more characterize this endocrine disorder. In this blog, we will discuss symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments of PCOS, and how this chronic health condition can be managed with the help of your endocrinologist.
What Are Endocrine Glands?
The endocrine glands are bodily structures which produce natural chemicals called hormones. These hormones are secreted into the bloodstream to create certain physiological effects, such as regulating blood pressure, increasing, or decreasing blood sugar levels, and building, and maintaining bone and reproductive processes.
A woman’s ovaries produce both estrogen and progesterone, the hormones responsible for primary and secondary sex characteristics and for fertility. Monthly ovulation, menstruation, and cycling depend on the proper balance of estrogen, progesterone, and other hormones.
What Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?
PCOS is a condition that affects the ovaries. With its characteristic hormonal imbalance, PCOS causes a number of noticeable somatic, or bodily, symptoms. While it is relatively common, it is nonetheless distressing to those who experience it. However, with the help of a primary care physician and endocrinologist, PCOS can be managed for increasing fertility and reduction of uncomfortable symptoms.
What Are the Symptoms of PCOS?
There are many symptoms, which can vary widely from woman to woman and is highly individualized. It takes close cooperation between you and your endocrine specialist to discover how best to manage symptoms on an ongoing basis.
The symptoms of PCOS can include:
- Missed, heavy, light, or irregular periods
- Overall fatigue
- Weight gain
- Mood swings, including depression and anxiety
- Infertility
- Acne
- Obstructive sleep apnea and other sleep-related changes
- Excess body hair on the face, underarms, legs and elsewhere (a condition known as hirsutism)
- Acne on the face, arms, chest, and legs
- Darkened skin on the neck and other areas of the body
- An excessive number of small, benign skin tags under the arms and on the neck
- Thinning scalp hair similar to male pattern baldness
- Clear cysts on one or both ovaries
How Is PCOS Diagnosed and Treated?
One of the most important aspects in the diagnosis and treatment of PCOS is tracking symptoms. Describing your symptoms in detail to your endocrinologist is key. Be sure to use a diary to note the location, severity and frequency of mood swings, length, and timing of menstruation and more. Tracking symptoms will also provide important diagnostic clues to your endocrinologist.
They will do a routine blood draw, physical examination and imaging, such ultrasonography of the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.
Treatments most commonly prescribed by endocrinologist and other healthcare providers may include:
- Birth control pills to help regulate the menstrual cycle
- Oral Clomid to promote regular ovulation
- Oral metformin to control blood sugar levels (along with diet and exercise)
- Aldactone pills to suppress excess hair growth and acne
Your healthcare provider will adjust your medications depending on your response to them. Be sure to note any change in symptoms as you take them.
What Are My Self-Care Options for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
There are many which can be individualized to your symptoms and how they change. These interventions include:
- Weight loss (even 10% of total body weight can improve symptoms dramatically)
- Lowering intake of saturated fats and carbohydrates
- Getting regular exercise (swimming, cycling, walking)
The Best Endocrinologist in Syracuse, NY
If you believe you are exhibiting symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome, please do not wait to consult an endocrinologist at Upstate Medical University Department of Medicine. Our board-certified endocrinologists understand the ups and downs of this frustrating women’s health issue.
They can help with the latest in diagnostic and treatment techniques. Contact the division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism at the Joslin Diabetes Center or the clinic nearest you. Not only are we on the forefront of research and technology, but we also excel at patient care which is compassionate and effective. We look forward to serving you.
