Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have an hormonal imbalance that increases the levels of the male hormone androgen in their bodies. PCOS usually starts at puberty and is associated with irregular periods and other hormone related symptoms. The most concerning issues with PCOS are the increase of infertility, the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and the higher risk of developing endometrial (uterine) cancer at an early age.
What are the symptoms of PCOS?
- Irregular menstrual periods, or no menstrual periods at all
- Decreased frequency or complete lack of ovulation, resulting in problems with infertility
- Obesity, often specifically characterized by weight gain in the upper body and abdomen
- Oily skin and hair and persistent acne into adulthood
- Abnormal hair growth, in a masculine distribution (facial hair, heavy hair growth on arms, chest and abdomen)
- Tendency to develop type 2 diabetes
What causes PCOS syndrome?
Research is ongoing to uncover a cause for PCOS However, there is evidence that suggests a link between certain forms of PCOS and family history (genetics).
How is PCOS diagnosed?
If your doctor suspects PCOS (through an evaluation of your medical history and symptoms), a blood test will be required to measure the levels of various hormones. Your doctor may also administer varying levels of medications to determine how your hormonal levels react to certain medications, this will help your doctor make a more definitive diagnosis. In some cases, an ultrasound of the ovaries may help with diagnosis.
How is PCOS treated?
Although PCOS can be treated with medications, treatment is often highly dependant on your goals and your symptoms.
If you want to become pregnant, you may be given certain fertility drugs such as clomiphene citrate or pergonal. If you do not want to become pregnant you may consider birth control pills to prevent pregnancy and regulate periods.
Other symptoms such as unwanted hair growth, acne, obesity and diabetes should be managed by specialists in those areas.
Specific treatment options should be discussed with your physician.
How can PCOS be prevented?
There is no known prevention for PCOS. However, through proper nutrition and weight management many women with polycystic ovary syndrome can avoid developing diabetes and cardiovascular problems.
How can I improve my chances of conceiving if I have PCOS?
While specific fertility issues should be addressed with your physician, there are some general healthcare guidelines that may improve your chances of becoming pregnant:
- Folic Acid (0.4 mg supplement a day, with a diet rich in folic acid, including leafy green vegetables, dried beans, liver and citrus fruits)
- Limit Caffeine (Less than two caffeinated beverages per day)
- Eat Well (Healthy well-balanced diet)
- Exercise (Maintain a normal exercise routine, 20-30 minutes per day, 4-5 times per week)
This information is provided by your physician and the Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine. This information has not been designed to replace a physician's medical assessment and medical judgement.
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 5/30/2006
