PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is a common hormonal disorder that affects approximately 5-10% of women of reproductive age. The key features of PCOS include:
- Irregular or absent menstrual cycles - This is often one of the first signs of PCOS. Menstrual cycles become very irregular or even stop completely due to hormone imbalances.
- Excess androgen levels - Women with PCOS tend to have higher than normal levels of androgens like testosterone. This causes symptoms like facial/body hair growth, acne, and male-pattern baldness.
- Ovarian cysts - The ovaries develop numerous small collections of fluid which appear like cysts. However, these are not true cysts but an accumulation of follicles that haven't properly matured and released an egg.
- Infertility - Due to lack of ovulation, many women with PCOS struggle with infertility and have difficulty getting pregnant. They may need medications or treatments like IVF to aid conception.
- Obesity - Up to 80% of women with PCOS are overweight or obese, especially with excess weight centered around the abdomen. This further worsens hormone imbalance and increases health risks.
Some other PCOS symptoms include fatigue, mood changes, discomfort/pain in the pelvis, and skin tags. PCOS has been associated with increased risk of developing insulin resistance, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and certain cancers.
If you are a woman with irregular periods or other signs of excess androgen levels (like excess hair growth), it is wise to consult your doctor and check if you have PCOS. Early intervention can help better manage symptoms and fertility issues. Lifestyle changes targeting weight loss and healthy nutrition are always recommended to improve PCOS. Some medications like
oral contraceptives, insulin sensitizers, or ovulation induction drugs may also be used in certain cases.
For personalized PCOS treatments and hormone balancing solutions, consider contacting the hormone experts at
Hormone Harmony Clinic. They offer comprehensive PCOS evaluation, nutrition counseling, supplements, fertility coaching and more tailored to each woman's unique hormonal imbalance and reproductive goals. Reduce bothersome symptoms, take charge of your fertility future and feel amazing again with their proprietary PCOS balancing protocol!