PCOS - Renew Medical Clinic

What is PCOS?

PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a common hormone disorder that affects women. It is estimated that PCOS affects 5-10% of women of reproductive age. The main signs and symptoms of PCOS include:

• Irregular periods - Women with PCOS often have fewer than 9 periods per year or have periods that are very irregular. They may also have no periods at all for several months.
• Excess androgen levels - Women with PCOS tend to have higher than normal levels of androgens like testosterone. This can lead to symptoms like excess facial and body hair growth, thinning hair on the scalp, and acne.
• Ovarian cysts - Polycystic ovaries occur when the ovaries contain many small cysts along the outer edges. The cysts are usually harmless but can cause enlargement of the ovaries.

What causes PCOS?

The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but it often runs in families. Research suggests that excess insulin may stimulate the ovaries to produce excess androgens like testosterone. Genetics and inflammation may also play a role.

Here are some of the main risk factors for developing PCOS:

• Family history of PCOS
• Obesity - 50-80% of women with PCOS are obese
• Insulin resistance
• Inflammation

How is PCOS diagnosed?

To be diagnosed with PCOS, a woman must meet at least 2 of the following 3 criteria:

• Irregular periods or lack of ovulation
• Excess androgen levels
• Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound

Blood tests can check hormone levels and look for other problems like diabetes. Pelvic exams and ultrasounds of the ovaries may also be done.

What are the health risks associated with PCOS?

PCOS increases a woman's risk for several other health conditions, including:

• Diabetes - Up to 50% of women with PCOS develop diabetes by age 40.
• Endometrial cancer - Women with PCOS are 2-4 times more likely to develop endometrial cancer if left untreated.
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Heart disease
• Metabolic syndrome

This makes regular screening and treatment for PCOS very important. Lifestyle changes and medications can help manage PCOS symptoms and lower these health risks.

How is PCOS treated?

While there is no cure for PCOS, symptoms can be managed with a combination of lifestyle changes and medications:

• Weight loss through diet and exercise helps lower insulin and androgen levels. Even a 5-10% loss of body weight can help restore ovulation and periods.
• Birth control pills regulate menstrual cycles and help reduce excess hair growth and acne.
• Metformin reduces insulin resistance and regulates periods.
• Fertility medications like clomiphene may be used to induce ovulation.

Procedures like ovarian drilling can also help stimulate ovulation in women who don't respond to medications. Losing weight and making healthy lifestyle changes are really the first line of treatment.

If you are struggling with PCOS symptoms, the caring providers at Renew Medical Clinic can help. Our integrative approach combines cutting-edge hormone testing with customized natural treatments to restore hormonal balance in women with PCOS. Schedule a consultation today to learn more about our individualized plans to relieve PCOS symptoms and improve your health.