If you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), you’re already familiar with the maddening symptoms it can cause. What you might not know about are the effective treatments available to manage this sometimes confusing and complex syndrome. The team at Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC in Grand Island and Hastings, Nebraska, are experienced in treating PCOS and can help determine the best course of treatment to help you find relief. Call today for an appointment or request your visit online.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that’s fairly common in women of childbearing age. If you have PCOS, you may have infrequent menstrual periods, menstrual periods that last longer than usual, and excessive or higher than normal levels of the male hormone (androgen). Your ovaries may also develop numerous dysfunctional, fluid-filled sacs (cysts). PCOS is frequently the cause of female infertility.
PCOS usually develops around the time of your first menstrual period but can also develop later in life and often in response to significant weight gain.
The symptoms often vary greatly from one woman to the next but typical issues that may indicate PCOS include:
Some patients may also experience weight fluctuations that lead to obesity or have difficulty losing weight.
Complications associated with untreated PCOS are often significant and can include:
Other complications include a cluster of conditions that can increase your risk of developing heart disease, known as metabolic syndrome, which typically includes high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels. Patients with PCOS may also have an increased risk of endometrial cancer (uterine lining) due to infrequent menstrual periods.
Treatment for PCOS typically focuses on managing the symptoms and concerns that come along with it, such as infertility.
Your doctor may recommend medications such as combination birth control pills containing estrogen and progestin to decrease androgen production and regulate estrogen. This can help lower your risk of endometrial cancer and correct abnormal menstrual bleeding, excess hair growth, and acne breakouts. If you’re having difficulty getting pregnant, your doctor might also prescribe clomiphene (Clomid) to help you ovulate or letrozole (Femara) to stimulate your ovaries.
If you’d like detailed information about PCOS and which treatments might work for your symptoms, call Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, or request an appointment online today.
