Dr. Bhanot offers polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) diagnosis and management to help women get the treatment they need to lead their healthiest lives possible. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition affecting as many as 26% of women of childbearing age. Dr. Bhanot offers effective care for PCOS, which is one of the leading causes of infertility. Call today or request a consultation online for PCOS diagnosis and treatment.
What is PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal condition that causes irregular periods and excessive body or facial hair. PCOS also is one of the most common causes of female infertility.
Up to 5 million women of reproductive age in the US have PCOS. The word “polycystic” means “many cysts,” and PCOS often causes clusters of small cysts in your ovaries.
How do I know whether I have PCOS?
Sometimes the signs of PCOS are mild and easy to overlook. Still, typical symptoms may include:
• Skipped or irregular periods
• Excess facial or body hair
• Thinning hair
• Weight problems
• Skin tags
• Acne
• Darkening skin
You may have just one or several of these symptoms.
Is PCOS bad for my health?
PCOS may increase your risk of developing certain conditions, especially if you’re overweight. You may be more prone to developing:
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Blocked arteries
• Coronary artery disease
• High cholesterol
• Stroke
• Uterine cancer
• Sleep apnea
With PCOS, you have a greater risk of developing gestational diabetes, which is diabetes during pregnancy.
What causes PCOS?
Women with PCOS produce too many androgens, a type of hormone considered “male.” Although scientists are still trying to understand what causes PCOS, part of the problem might be an overproduction of insulin. An excessive amount of insulin can boost androgen production, which alters your normal process of ovulation.
Long-term, low-grade inflammation may also lead to PCOS by causing your ovaries to make too many androgens. PCOS also runs in families; you may have a greater risk if your mother had PCOS.
How is PCOS treated?
Dr. Bhanot tailors your treatment to address your specific symptoms and overall health. A variety of different medications, birth control pills, or hormone therapy may help rein in androgen production and balance your hormone levels.
Losing weight may also improve your condition. A weight loss program may help you to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
If you’re struggling with infertility, Dr. Bhanot may recommend appropriate medications to stimulate ovulation.
If you’re ready to put PCOS behind you, get started today by calling Dr. Bhanot or by scheduling an appointment online.