Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects one in 10 women, putting them at risk of serious health problems, such as weight gain, Type 2 diabetes, and infertility. The experienced doctors and nurse practitioners at Burlington OBGYN Associates Inc. in Burlington, Massachusetts, provide effective PCOS treatment by combining lifestyle modifications with medications that restore balance. If you have dark hair on your face or irregular periods, don’t wait to schedule an appointment. Call the office or use online booking to request a PCOS assessment and begin treatment to restore your health.
Women develop PCOS when their androgen levels are higher than normal. Though androgens are male hormones, your body produces a small amount. Women need androgens to maintain the health and function of their reproductive system, heart, bones, and muscles.
High androgen levels affect your ovaries. As a result, your ovaries may stop releasing eggs, or they may release eggs on an irregular schedule (instead of following a regular monthly schedule).
Excess androgen also affects insulin levels, putting women with PCOS at risk of developing insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes.
PCOS causes one or more of the following symptoms:
As PCOS disrupts ovulation, your periods may completely stop or become irregular. Irregular periods often cause heavy menstrual bleeding.
Women with PCOS often have numerous ovarian cysts (fluid-filled sacs). You may not have symptoms if the cysts are small. Pelvic pain begins as they enlarge.
High androgen levels may cause acne, skin tags, hirsutism (dark, coarse hair growth on your face, chest, abdomen, or thighs), and hair loss (on your head).
Without treatment, the hormone changes associated with PCOS lead to serious health problems, including:
PCOS also increases your risk for endometrial cancer.
After completing an exam and performing an ultrasound to look for cysts, your Burlington OBGYN Associates Inc. provider creates an individualized treatment plan that may include:
In addition to raising your blood sugar, PCOS leads to weight gain and high cholesterol. You can improve these problems by following a healthy diet and getting regular exercise. Your provider can help you develop a diet and exercise plan that works for your lifestyle and helps you meet your goals.
Losing weight is good for your overall health, and it also helps treat PCOS by lowering your androgen and blood sugar levels.
Your provider may prescribe one of several medications to target specific needs. For example, medications are available to regulate your menstrual cycle, lower androgen production, and improve hirsutism or acne.
Don’t wait to seek help for PCOS because early treatment can prevent complications. Call Burlington OBGYN Associates Inc. or use the online booking feature today.