Polycystic Ovary Syndrome – Diagnosis and Treatment

PCOS

Ten percent of women in the United States have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal condition that affects ovulation, fertility, and appearance. At Lake OB-GYN Associates of Mid-Florida, LLC in Leesburg, and Villages, in Florida, the board-certified obstetrics and gynecology physicians specialize in diagnosing and treating PCOS. For an evaluation, contact the office by phone or online today.

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PCOS is a gynecologic condition that causes problems in the ovaries due to an imbalance in reproductive hormones. Your ovaries are responsible for making and releasing the eggs during your menstrual cycle. With PCOS, your ovaries might not release the egg or the egg might not be properly developed, which affects ovulation and your menstrual cycle.

PCOS affects women during their reproductive years. You would be at greater risk of developing the condition if it runs in your family.

An irregular period is the most common symptom of PCOS. With PCOS, you could have as few as eight menstrual cycles a year. Other symptoms include:

  • Growth of facial hair
  • Acne
  • Weight gain
  • Difficulty losing weight
  • Infertility
  • Female-pattern baldness

If your menstrual cycle is irregular or you’re experiencing any PCOS symptoms, the team at Lake OB-GYN Associates of Mid-Florida, LLC can conduct an evaluation to determine if PCOS is responsible for your symptoms.

No single test diagnoses PCOS so your doctor at Lake OB-GYN Associates of Mid-Florida, LLC conducts a comprehensive evaluation along with diagnostic tests to rule out other causes of your symptoms before diagnosing you with PCOS. Your evaluation can include a physical and pelvic exam, as well as an in-office ultrasound to assess your reproductive organs.

Your doctor might also request various blood tests like a measurement of your androgen levels. Androgen is a male hormone that’s often elevated in women with PCOS and causes the growth of facial hair and the loss of hair on your head. Your doctor can also check your cholesterol level and assess for diabetes.

PCOS might be difficult to diagnose, but it’s treatable. Your doctor at Lake OB-GYN Associates of Mid-Florida, LLC develops a personalized treatment plan to help you manage your condition.

Your doctor can prescribe hormonal birth control to improve ovulation, as well as anti-androgen medication to control your symptoms. Metformin is a medication used to treat Type 2 diabetes that might also be prescribed to lower your androgen levels.

For expert care of all your gynecologic needs, call Lake OB-GYN Associates of Mid-Florida, LLC or request an appointment online.

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