Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that affects one in ten women of reproductive age. In the past, those diagnosed with this disorder were usually told they were rendered infertile. With breakthroughs in reproductive medicine, this is no longer the case. While it’s true PCOS can cause patients difficulty with conceiving, with the right treatments at our fertility clinic NC, you can have a fighting chance of becoming pregnant. If you think you may have PCOS, it’s important to understand the condition and how it’s diagnosed and managed. From NCCRM, fertility specialist Raleigh NC, here’s what to know about this complex syndrome.
What Is PCOS?
PCOS is a hormonal disorder caused by an imbalance in the body’s natural hormones. The condition results in an increased level of testosterone, which can cause changes in the ovaries such as cysts or enlarged follicles that do not break open or release eggs. The hormone imbalance can also prevent regular ovulation, leading to irregular periods or even a complete lack of menstruation. In addition, PCOS can cause acne and other skin issues, excess hair growth (hirsutism), obesity, insulin resistance, anxiety, depression, sleep apnea, and heart disease. The condition is usually diagnosed and treated by an OBGYN at our fertility specialist Raleigh NC clinic.
Diagnosing PCOS
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or suspect that you may have PCOS, talk to a fertility specialist Raleigh NC about getting tested for the condition. Your doctor may order tests such as blood tests to check your hormone levels and ultrasounds to look for cysts on the ovaries. Based on your test results, they will be able to confirm whether or not you have PCOS and recommend treatment options accordingly.
Managing PCOS Symptoms
Once you have been diagnosed with PCOS by a fertility specialist Raleigh NC, several steps can be taken to manage its symptoms. Lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly can help reduce weight gain associated with the condition and improve overall health. Some medications may also be prescribed depending on your specific symptoms; these could include oral contraceptives or drugs like clomiphene citrate (used to stimulate ovulation) or metformin (used to treat insulin resistance). Ultimately, it’s important for everyone affected by PCOS to work closely with their doctor to find the best treatment plan for them.
NCCRM | Fertility Specialist Raleigh NC
PCOS can be an overwhelming condition for many women, but there are ways to help manage it. By making lifestyle changes and following through with treatment options recommended by our fertility specialist Raleigh NC, you can take control of your reproductive health. Whether you’re looking to fast-track your fertility or you’re coming in for a tubal ligation procedure, we’re here to help. To learn more about our fertility clinic NC, visit our website today.
