Many women struggle every month because of a painful menstrual cycle. For some women, though, the hurdles of their period are extreme because they are living with a chronic condition known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This common endocrine disorder requires ongoing medical management to treat and stabilize, and the first step is an accurate diagnosis.
Symptoms of PCOS
Some women do not see their doctor when they have discomfort during menses because they consider the problem simply part of their period, no matter how uncomfortable they may be. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s important to be evaluated for PCOS:
- Irregular periods
- Heavy periods
- Excess facial or body hair
- Hair loss
- Severe acne
- Skin darkening
- Chronic fatigue
- Infertility
Polycystic ovary syndrome gets its name from fluid-filled cysts that can form on the edges of the ovaries. These sacs contain follicles that fail to release eggs regularly. PCOS can reveal itself as early as the first menstrual period or develop after multiple cycles. Some women aren’t diagnosed with PCOS until they try to have a baby and encounter infertility, miscarriage, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or premature birth.
PCOS has other potential complications that do not only revolve around fertility and conception. This chronic condition puts people at an increased risk of heart disease, liver inflammation, diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, obesity, depression or anxiety, and endometrial cancer.
Does PCOS Have a Cure?
There is no cure for PCOS, a hormonal problem that occurs during reproductive years, but there are many types of treatments that can ease the symptoms, regulate hormones, improve insulin sensitivity, and may improve the ability to conceive, including:
- Sleep hygiene
- Stress management
- Diet choices
- Regular exercise
Lifestyle, nutrition, exercise, environment, genetics, and preexisting conditions all impact whether a woman will develop PCOS and how the effects of the condition will impact her daily life and overall health.
See Your Healthcare Provider for Help with PCOS
If you experience any of the symptoms above, have abdominal pain, or suspect that something is not right with your system, make an appointment with me, Dr. Maria Swetech, to discuss what’s going on. Early diagnosis and treatment of PCOS can lower the risk of long-term complications.
Nothing in this blog is official medical advice. See your doctor for customized care.
