Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Treatment
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects about 6 to 12 percent of women during their childbearing years and is a leading cause of irregular periods and difficulty getting pregnant. The expert team at Marina OB/GYN diagnoses PCOS and creates personalized treatment plans to manage symptoms and protect long-term health.
Book OnlineWhat Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
PCOS is a hormonal condition in which the ovaries produce higher-than-normal levels of male hormones called androgens. This imbalance disrupts ovulation, leading to irregular or missed periods, difficulty becoming pregnant, and often many small follicles, or cysts, on the ovaries. PCOS is also linked to insulin resistance, which increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and heart disease.
What Causes PCOS?
The exact cause is unknown, but PCOS has been linked to genetics, excess weight, and insulin resistance. It can develop any time after puberty, though many women don’t realize they have it until they try to conceive.
Symptoms of PCOS
Symptoms vary widely and may appear as early as your first period:
- Irregular or infrequent periods
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Difficulty getting pregnant
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Acne and oily skin
- Excess hair on the face, chest, back, or stomach (hirsutism)
- Thinning hair on the scalp
- Dark patches of skin
- Fatigue and frequent headaches
Because these symptoms can overlap with other conditions, including ovarian cysts and thyroid problems, an accurate diagnosis is important.
How PCOS Is Diagnosed
Your provider reviews your menstrual history and symptoms, performs a physical exam, and orders blood tests to check hormone and blood sugar levels. A pelvic ultrasound may be used to examine the ovaries.
PCOS Treatment Options
There is no cure for PCOS, but treatment can greatly reduce or eliminate symptoms. Our providers start with the most conservative approach and tailor care to your primary concerns:
- Hormonal birth control: Birth control pills or a hormonal IUD regulate periods and protect the uterine lining.
- Weight management: Our medically supervised weight loss program can restore ovulation and improve insulin sensitivity.
- Ovulation medications: Help women with PCOS become pregnant.
- Insulin-sensitizing medication: Helps manage insulin resistance and lower diabetes risk.
- Hair and skin treatments: Laser hair removal and medications address hirsutism and acne.
When you become pregnant, our team provides attentive pregnancy care. Explore all conditions we treat.
PCOS FAQs
What are the first signs of PCOS?
Irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth, and weight gain are often the first signs.
Can PCOS be cured?
There is no cure, but symptoms can be effectively managed with medication, lifestyle changes, and hormonal therapy.
Can I get pregnant with PCOS?
Yes. Many women with PCOS conceive with the help of weight management and ovulation medications.
Does losing weight help PCOS?
Yes. Losing 5 to 10 percent of body weight can restore ovulation and improve symptoms for many women.
Is PCOS linked to diabetes?
PCOS is associated with insulin resistance, which raises the risk of type 2 diabetes. Regular screening is recommended.
How is PCOS diagnosed?
Diagnosis is based on your symptoms, a physical exam, blood tests, and sometimes a pelvic ultrasound.
Can birth control help PCOS?
Yes. Hormonal birth control regulates periods, reduces androgen-related symptoms, and protects the uterine lining.