What is PCOS?
What is PCOS?
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects up to 1 in 10 girls and women in their reproductive years. It may cause disruptions to the menstrual cycle, skin and hair changes, as well as cysts on the ovaries.
Women with PCOS can have a wide range of symptoms. Not every woman with PCOS will have every symptom, and each woman will have their own individual experience.
PCOS symptoms include:
- excess hair growing on your face, chest, stomach or back (hirsutism)
- thinning hair or baldness (alopecia)
- irregular periods or no periods at all
- abnormal vaginal bleeding
- difficulty falling pregnant or not falling pregnant at all
- acne
- dark patches on the skin
- easy weight gain
- swollen belly
- mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, mood changes and low self-esteem
If you think you might have PCOS, it is important you see a doctor. An early diagnosis can help manage the symptoms of PCOS and reduce the potential long-term health risks.
Treatment depends on the main problems you have.
A healthy lifestyle is the main way to manage PCOS. Eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise can help many of the physical and emotional problems.
Exercise can improve your mental health. Losing a small amount of weight can help regulate your periods, improve your chance of becoming pregnant and reduce your risk of diabetes and heart disease
Call today for an appointment with our Integrative medicine doctor for a personalized treatment plan.
