PCOS Education

 

What Is PCOS?

 

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a long-term hormonal and metabolic condition. It can affect ovulation, menstrual cycles, fertility, skin and hair, blood sugar, heart-health risks, and emotional well-being. Despite its name, a person does not have to have ovarian cysts to have PCOS. The “cysts” often seen on ultrasound are usually many small follicles that have not fully matured. [NICHD; CDC]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What Causes PCOS?

 

The exact cause is not known. Evidence points to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Higher androgen activity and insulin resistance often play important roles. PCOS is not caused by something a person did wrong. [CDC; NICHD]

 

Common Signs

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• Irregular, infrequent, very heavy, or absent periods

• Trouble ovulating or becoming pregnant

• Increased facial or body hair

• Persistent or severe acne and oily skin

• Thinning scalp hair

• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight, especially around the waist

• Dark, thickened, velvety skin patches

• Symptoms differ from person to person, and some may have only a few. [CDC; NICHD]

 

How PCOS Is Identified

 

There is no single test. A clinician reviews symptoms and medical history, performs an exam, and may order blood tests and pelvic ultrasound. In adults, commonly used approaches look for at least two of three features after other causes are excluded: irregular or absent ovulation; elevated androgens or signs of them; and polycystic ovarian morphology on ultrasound. Adolescents require special care because normal puberty can resemble PCOS. [NICHD]

 

Health Risks To Discuss

 

PCOS is associated with insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels, sleep apnea, depression or anxiety, fertility and pregnancy complications, and endometrial hyperplasia and endometrial cancer. A risk factor raises probability; it does not mean a person will develop the condition. [CDC; NICHD; NCI]

 

Treatment And Ongoing Care

 

There is no one-size-fits-all cure, but symptoms and long-term risks can be managed. Care may include nutrition and physical-activity support; medicines to regulate cycles and protect the uterine lining; medicines that improve insulin response; treatments for acne or excess hair; and ovulation-inducing treatment when pregnancy is desired. Treatment depends on symptoms, health history, medication risks, and pregnancy goals. Some medicines commonly used for PCOS are used off-label, so decisions belong with a qualified clinician. [NICHD]

 

Questions To Ask

 

What else could be causing my symptoms?

How often should I have a period or receive medicine to protect my uterine lining?

Should I be checked for diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol, sleep apnea, anxiety, or depression?

How does this treatment affect pregnancy plans?