PCOS - Rebalance Hormone Clinic

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects women. An estimated 5-10% of women of reproductive age have PCOS. The name refers to the enlarged ovaries that contain small fluid-filled sacs called follicles. What causes PCOS? The exact cause is unknown, but it likely involves a combination of genetic and environmental factors that affect hormones and cause problems with ovulation and metabolism. Key factors believed to play a role include:

• Insulin resistance - Many women with PCOS are resistant to the effects of insulin in the body. Higher insulin levels can increase androgen hormone production, which interferes with ovulation.
• Inflammation - Some research shows that women with PCOS have chronic low-grade inflammation, which stimulates polycystic ovaries to produce androgens.
• Heredity - PCOS seems to run in families, so genes likely play a role. Daughters of women with PCOS have a 50% chance of developing it.

What are the symptoms of PCOS? Symptoms can vary from woman to woman, but may include:

• Irregular periods - This is the most common symptom. Periods may be very heavy, very light, or absent.
• Infertility - Many women with PCOS have difficulty getting pregnant due to lack of ovulation.
• Weight gain - Up to 80% of women with PCOS are overweight or obese.
• Excess hair growth - More than 70% grow coarse or thick hair on the face, chest, belly, or back.
• Acne - 30% have severe acne, especially along the jawline and neck.
• Hair loss - Some women experience male-pattern baldness due to high androgen levels.
• Skin tags - Small flaps of skin in body fold areas are common.

How is PCOS diagnosed? There's no single test to diagnose PCOS. To confirm the diagnosis, your doctor will:

• Review your medical history and ask about your symptoms
• Conduct a physical exam to check for signs like excess hair growth
• Run blood tests to check hormone and glucose levels
• Perform an ultrasound to examine your ovaries

You must have at least two of the following to receive an official diagnosis:

• Irregular menstrual cycles
• High androgen hormone levels
• Polycystic ovaries seen on an ultrasound

What's the treatment for PCOS? There's no cure for PCOS, but symptoms can be managed with lifestyle changes and medications:

• Lose weight - Just 5-10% in body weight can help regulate menstrual cycles and improve PCOS symptoms.
• Healthy diet - Choose high fiber carbs, lean protein, healthy fats. Limit processed foods.
• Exercise - Aim for 30-60 minutes per day to help manage weight and insulin levels.
• Birth control pills - Oral contraceptives can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels.
• Fertility treatments - Medications can stimulate ovulation for women trying to conceive.

While troubling, PCOS symptoms can often be relieved through proactive lifestyle measures and treatment. Paying attention to diet, activity levels, and body weight goes a long way toward taking charge of PCOS. Working closely with your doctor at Rebalance Hormone Clinic is key - they can help determine the best treatment options for your situation.