Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects nearly five million women in America. Yet, many people have never heard of it. That’s why the month of September is dedicated to cultivating awareness of this health issue. Knowing the symptoms and detecting the condition early are key to having a healthy life. Your local women’s health center is a great resource to help you understand and treat the disorder. But what exactly is it? Here, Thameside ObGyn Centre in Groton, CT, explains what you should know about PCOS.

PCOS: What a Women’s Health Center Wants You to Know

What Is It?

PCOS is a disorder that affects ovulation by causing an imbalance in key hormones. Women with the condition may produce too much testosterone, have enlarged ovaries, or have cysts on their ovaries. There are also various associated health concerns, such as a higher risk for cardiovascular disease. Women with a family history of PCOS have a higher chance of being diagnosed with the condition. 

What Are the Symptoms?

There are various signs you may be suffering from PCOS, including irregular periods, depression, and trouble getting pregnant. If you begin to notice a variation of these symptoms, visit your gynecologist for an exam. The test itself will involve various sets of bloodwork to determine your hormone levels. In addition, your doctor may conduct an ultrasound to look for cysts. 

How Can I Prevent or Treat It?

While the condition is not preventable and there is currently no cure, there are a variety of ways to help you live comfortably. Medications can be taken to reduce problematic symptoms. Your women’s health center can also prescribe birth control pills to help regulate your menstrual cycles, potentially improve ovulation, and balance out your hormone levels.

Additionally, for women who have problematic cysts, surgery has been found to be beneficial in removing them and improving ovulation. Overall, lifestyle changes, such as modifying your diet, managing your stress levels, and maintaining a healthy weight, have proven to be incredibly helpful.

If you think you might have PCOS or want to learn more about the disorder, visit the top women’s health center in Groton, CT. Thameside ObGyn Centre offers state-of-the-art care for all your needs, from prenatal care to birth control. For more information on PCOS and how it affects women, give the compassionate team a call at (860) 445-5107, or visit them online.