Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that occurs when a woman develops multiple cysts on the ovaries, as well as other symptoms. Thomas Bickley, DO, and Eericca Bickley, DO, of Arizona Women’s Health Partners can recognize the signs of PCOS and provide effective treatment options to women with this condition. Patients who think they may have PCOS should contact Arizona Women’s Health Partners in Mesa, AZ and serving Gilbert, AZ, to schedule an appointment.
PCOS is a common disorder of the endocrine system that affects women in their childbearing years. It causes women to have enlarged ovaries, usually with multiple cysts located on each ovary. PCOS can also lead to complications if left untreated, including:
Researchers haven’t determined the exact cause of PCOS. However, they believe that the condition may be related to:
Some women are more likely to develop PCOS than others. For example, women who have a relative with a history of this condition are more likely to develop it themselves.
The symptoms of PCOS can vary but may include:
The symptoms of PCOS usually begin at puberty, but they may also begin later in life if the woman gains a substantial amount of weight. Most women with PCOS will have more severe symptoms if they’re obese.
To diagnose PCOS, the doctor may need to order different tests, including blood tests and an ultrasound of the ovaries. They may also perform a physical and pelvic exam to look for the signs of PCOS.
Some women can reduce the symptoms of PCOS simply by losing weight. However, weight loss may not eliminate all of the symptoms of this condition, especially among women who are already at a normal weight. For women with PCOS who don’t want to become pregnant, Dr. Thomas or Dr. Eericca may recommend medications to deal with excess hair growth and regulate the menstrual cycle. The most common treatment used to regulate the menstrual cycle is oral birth control.
For women who hope to become pregnant, the doctor may recommend medications to stimulate ovulation, such as clomiphene. If clomiphene isn’t effective on its own, it may be used in combination with other hormones or medications to improve the chances of pregnancy.
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