PCOS
Polycystic ovary syndrome, also known as “PCOS,” happens when a woman’s ovaries produce an excess of male hormones. Some people may barely notice they have PCOS, while others may have severe symptoms. Once it is clear that PCOS is the likely cause of those symptoms, there are many treatments that can ease them.
If you’re experiencing PCOS symptoms, the providers at Summit Women’s Health in Princeton, West Virginia, are here to help. We will be there every step of the way to guide you through the testing and results to ensure you understand what is happening with your body.
What are the symptoms of PCOS?
Due to the higher levels of male hormones caused by PCOS, women may experience:
growth of excess hair on the face, chest, stomach, or thighs
irregular menstrual periods
pelvic pain
weight gain
patches of thickened skin
acne or oily skin
infertility
Women with PCOS may have a higher risk of diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Diagnosis earlier on is the best way to help prevent those problems from developing. So even if you may have symptoms but consider them not so bad, it’s important to see your doctor about PCOS symptoms in order to protect your future health.
What causes PCOS?
While the exact cause of PCOS is unknown — which we understand is frustrating — studies show that excess insulin, low-grade inflammation, and heredity may play a role.
How is PCOS diagnosed at Summit Women’s Health?
The diagnosis of PCOS is an exclusionary process, which means we have to run tests to show that you don’t have other conditions before we can say that it’s likely you do have PCOS. Basically, this is because medicine has not yet come up with a test for PCOS that can tell us “yes, you have it” or “no, you don’t have it.”
Through several tests and examinations, our providers will eliminate all possible other causes of your symptoms first. For an accurate PCOS diagnosis, you will need a physical exam, pelvic exam, blood test, and ultrasound.
During the physical exam, height, weight, and blood pressure are commonly taken into account also.
A pelvic exam will reveal if there are any signs of growths or masses on reproductive organs or other abnormalities.
A blood test is used to measure the level of several hormones present in the body. This tests for the possibility of menstrual abnormalities or androgen excess, both of which mirror the symptoms of PCOS.
Finally, an ultrasound will show the appearance of the ovaries and thickness of the uterine lining.
When all results have been considered, your provider can then determine if PCOS is indeed present.
How is PCOS treated?
If you receive a PCOS diagnosis, rest assured that treatments are available. Starting PCOS treatment can be a big step toward a healthier lifestyle and weight reduction. Even a small drop in weight can help alleviate symptoms.
Summit Women’s Health providers can guide you through the proper diet and exercise needed to fight PCOS.
Medication can also be considered to help with specific areas of concern.
Birth control is another option and could be prescribed to regulate your menstrual cycle, while medication such as Clomiphene can be used to aid with ovulation.
Some birth control options can also be used to reduce excess hair growth, if this is a concern.
While there is no cure for PCOS, mitigation of symptoms is the goal. If you are experiencing symptoms, don’t wait. Summit Women’s Health providers will guide you through the testing process, discuss treatment options, and answer all of your questions. To book an appointment at Summit Women’s Health in Princeton, West Virginia, with Brandon M. Lingenfelter, DO, PhD; Megan Lingenfelter, PA; Sam Snyder, DO; or Valeah Bradshaw, NP, call us at (681) 282-5591 or book an appointment online.