Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) affects 10 million women worldwide. It can begin early in the teenage years or develop later on. Despite its name, many women that have the disorder do not have ovarian cysts, while some do. PCOS is, however, a hormonal imbalance disorder that is thought to be genetic and environmental.
Symptoms
The three main hormones that are disrupted with PCOS are androgen, progesterone, and insulin. In combination, these hormones lead to severe symptoms of weight gain, irregular periods, heavy bleeding, missing periods, hair thinning, hair growth on the face and body, bloating, pelvic pain, insomnia, acne, mood swings, and infertility. PCOS is the leading cause of infertility.
Because of the nature of the hormonal imbalance, if left untreated, PCOS can lead to other health complications like high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, and reproductive cancers. Unfortunately, PCOS is often misdiagnosed, so finding a gynecologist that is experienced in PCOS diagnostic testing and treatment is imperative.
Diagnostic Tests:
• Blood Tests
• Pelvic Exams
• Ultrasound
If Diagnosed, Additional Testing May Include:
• Blood Glucose Monitoring
• Sleep Studies
• Testing for Anxiety or Depression
• Fertility Testing
• Lipid Panels
PCOS Treatment Options:
• Hormonal Medications (progestin and/or android blocking hormones)
• Birth Control Pills (estrogen and progestin)
• Metformin (for insulin issues and ovarian hyperstimulation)
• Medications to induce ovulation
• IVF (for fertility)
• Skin Medications (topical and oral)
• Hair Medications or Treatments
• Anxiety Treatments
Adding supplements to the diet may be helpful in addition to medical treatments. According to the PCOS Awareness Association, “Vitamins, supplements, and other complementary treatments are popular among women with PCOS. Researchers are studying the effectiveness of such treatments. Popular treatments include cinnamon, myo-inositol, vitamin D, B complex vitamins, and acupuncture.”
It’s also important to speak to your physician about in-depth thyroid testing. Very often, PCOS is a condition that develops due to hypothyroidism and/or other hormonal factors. There are ways to try and alleviate PCOS along with medical care, such as limiting sugar and carbohydrates from the diet, exercise, stress management, and losing weight.
Total Healthcare of Naples
Total Healthcare of Naples is a comprehensive obstetrics and gynecological practice with experienced medical professionals that always put your healing needs first. They provide the highest quality and level of customer service, medical experience, and commitment to health and wellness for their patients. With cutting-edge technology, in-depth resources and dedication to their patient’s wellbeing, Total Healthcare of Naples is the preeminent provider for women’s healthcare needs.
Dr. Chris Grevengood
Board Certified OBGYN
Dr. Grevengood has been practicing medicine in Naples for over twenty years. Board certified in both Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Dr. Grevengood did a fellowship in the specialty of Reproductive Genetics. Prior to relocating to Naples, Dr. G was an Assistant Professor at the University of Miami School of Medicine. It was there he met Dr. Ricardo Estape, a Gynecologic Oncologist. Together they have been providing advanced laparoscopic and Robotic gynecologic surgeries for the past twenty-five years.
To find out more, or to schedule your appointment, please call them today at (239) 571-9765.
DR. CHRIS GREVENGOOD
9400 Bonita Beach Road Southeast,
Bonita Springs, Florida 34135
239-571-9765
www.totalhealthcareofnaples.org