Polycystic ovarian syndrome, or PCOS, is an ailment that impacts people with ovaries across the world. It involves the growth of painful cysts in or on the ovary. This can make it difficult for the ovary to develop and release eggs. At NCCRM, a Cary NC gynecology clinic, our goal is to help patients understand their ailments and provide the best possible treatment plans for them. If you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS and are looking for a PCOS specialist, we are ready to help.
Types of PCOS
There are four different types of PCOS that can develop for a variety of reasons. The first is known as insulin-resistant PCOS. This type of PCOS is diagnosed in those who have all of the symptoms of PCOS as well as high levels of insulin in their bodies. Adrenal PCOS is described as PCOS that is caused by an overactive adrenal gland, which releases androgens. These androgens aid in regulating periods and menstrual cycles, which is why patients with this type of PCOS often have irregular periods. Post-pill PCOS occurs in those who previously used a hormonal form of birth control. In most cases, this type of PCOS is temporary and will diminish as hormones return to their natural state. The last type of PCOS is called inflammatory PCOS, caused by a variety of factors including thyroid disease, autoimmune disorders, permeability, and more. Chronic inflammation can have a major impact on our body’s ability to produce hormones; this interrupts the natural cycle of the body. Your local PCOS specialist can assist with diagnosing and pinpointing the root cause of your PCOS and offer treatments that suit your needs.
PCOS Diagnosis
There are a few ways to diagnose PCOS at a Cary NC gynecology clinic. Your PCOS specialist will start by checking for common signs and symptoms of the ailment, including excess hair growth on the face and body, insulin resistance, and acne. Then, your physician might recommend a pelvic exam or an ultrasound be performed to inspect your reproductive organs for masses and growths. A blood test can measure glucose intolerances and the number of hormones in the body.
PCOS Treatment
Treating PCOS depends on the patient’s lifestyle, goals, and the type of PCOS the patient is experiencing. For patients looking to regulate their menstrual cycle, birth control pills and progestin therapy can assist in correcting symptoms as well as making periods more predictable. Other medications, such as metformin, letrozole, and clomiphene aid in ovulation for patients that would like to grow their families.
NCCRM | PCOS Specialist
Whether you’re struggling with PCOS, endometriosis, or another gynecological ailment, NCCRM is ready to assist with diagnosis, treatments, and prevention. Our staff is dedicated to the health and wellness of all of our patients. For more information about PCOS and our additional services, please visit our website.
