Approximately one in 10 American women suffers from polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, a condition related to a hormonal imbalance. The OB/GYN team at The Women's Center, with convenient locations in Orlando, St. Cloud, Altamonte Springs, Oviedo, Ocoee, Winter Park and Celebration, Florida, can evaluate your PCOS symptoms and offer treatment. To find out more about PCOS, call one of the offices in Orlando, St. Cloud, Altamonte Springs, Oviedo, Ocoee, and Celebration, or book an appointment online.
Polycystic ovary syndrome describes an imbalance of reproductive hormones that cause problems in a woman’s ovaries. Women with PCOS usually have too many androgens, or male sex hormones. As a result, the eggs developed in the ovaries may not release as they should or form regularly. PCOS can lead to infertility and the development of cysts in the ovaries.
You don’t have to experience all of the symptoms of PCOS to be diagnosed with the condition. You may have some of the following that warrant a visit to The Women’s Center for an evaluation:
The inability to get pregnant and difficulty managing your weight are additional symptoms of PCOS.
Polycystic ovary syndrome has been linked to other health problems. These include:
Women with PCOS commonly experience depression and anxiety and sleep problems, too.
No cure is available for PCOS, but symptoms – including infertility – can be managed.
If you do not want to get pregnant, hormonal birth control such as the pill and some IUDs can help control your symptoms by making your menstrual cycle more regular and reducing your risk of endometrial cancer. Hormonal birth control can also help improve symptoms such as acne and excess hair. If you’re overweight, losing extra pounds can help relieve PCOS symptoms, too.
If you do want to get pregnant, your doctor at The Women’s Center may recommend Clomid, a fertility drug that encourages you to ovulate. If you don’t respond to this medication, they may recommend in-vitro fertilization. Many women with PCOS go on to have successful pregnancies.
To learn more about PCOS and your options for treatment, call one of the offices of The Women’s Center or use the online tool to make an appointment today.
