What is PCOS?

PCOS, or polycystic ovarian syndrome, is a hormonal imbalance that affects 5-10% of women of childbearing age.  It messes up a woman’s period and causes infertility, as well as changing one’s physical appearance and possibly leading to diabetes or heart disease.  Most women with PCOS have many small cysts on their ovaries, hence the name; these cysts are not usually harmful but cause hormone imbalances. Ovaries of women with PCOS make too many androgens (or male sex hormones).  This causes irregular ovulation, acne, and extra hair growth on the face and body.  Women with PCOS often have a problem using insulin, or insulin resistance; this leads to elevated blood sugar level and increased risk of diabetes.

Symptoms of PCOS begin mildly and only a few at a time. They include acne, weight gain, extra hair on the face and body, thinning hair, irregular periods, fertility problems, and depression.  [I had almost all of these within six months of going off of birth control.]  Diagnosing PCOS involves a health history, physical exam, blood work (to test blood sugar and hormone levels), and a pelvic ultrasound to examine the ovaries.

Regular exercise and healthy foods are the key treatments for PCOS.  Birth control pills can reduce symptoms. Metformin, a diabetes medication, can help regulate your blood sugar levels and help encourage a much more regular menstrual cycle.

Some websites with good information about PCOS that I used after my diagnosis:

• WebMD – Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Topic Overview (http://www.webmd.com/women/tc/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos-topic-overview)

• What is PCOS- PCOS Foundation (http://www.pcosfoundation.org/what-is-pcos)

• Polycystic Ovary syndrome (PCOS) fact sheet (http://womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/polycystic-ovary-syndrome.html)