What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a problem in which a woman’s hormones are out of balance. In each menstrual cycle, follicles grow on the ovaries. Eggs develop within those follicles, one of which will reach maturity faster than the others and be released into the fallopian tubes. This is “ovulation“.

The most common symptoms are:

Acne

Weight Gain

Extra Hair on the face & body

Irregular Periods

Ovulation and polycystic ovaries:

Hormonal impacts

In each menstrual cycle, follicles grow on the ovaries. Eggs develop within those follicles, one of which will reach maturity faster than the others and be released into the fallopian tubes. This is "ovulation". The remaining follicles will degenerate. In the case of polycystic ovaries, however, the ovaries are larger than normal, and there are a series of undeveloped follicles that appear in clumps, somewhat like a bunch of grapes. The cysts are not harmful but lead to hormone imbalances.

Managing PCOS:

Early diagnosis, tailored treatments, & preventive care

Early diagnosis and treatment can help control the symptoms and prevent long-term problems. If it isn’t treated, over time it can lead to serious health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease.

A variety of treatments are available to address the problems of PCOS. Treatment is tailored to each woman according to symptoms, other health problems, and whether she wants to become pregnant.

Combined hormonal birth control pills can be used for long-term treatment for women with PCOS who do not wish to become pregnant. Combined hormonal pills contain both estrogen and progesterone. These birth control pills regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce hirsutism and acne by decreasing androgen levels. They also decrease the risk of endometrial cancer.