PCOS - Renew Hormone Center

What is PCOS?

PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a common hormonal disorder that affects women during their reproductive years. Over 5 million women in the United States have PCOS.

Some key facts about PCOS:

• PCOS is characterized by an imbalance of reproductive hormones in the body that can interfere with normal ovulation and menstruation. This hormonal imbalance leads to problems in the ovaries and adrenal glands.
• The most common symptoms of PCOS include:
  • Irregular, infrequent, or prolonged menstrual periods
  • Excess androgen levels resulting in acne, excess facial and body hair growth, and pattern baldness
  • Weight gain and difficulty losing weight
  • Ovarian cysts
• PCOS increases a woman's risk for type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, endometrial cancer, and other conditions.
• The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but genetics and insulin resistance appear to play a role. Obesity and lack of exercise also contribute to symptom severity.
• PCOS symptoms can be managed through lifestyle changes like maintaining a healthy diet and activity level, achieving a healthy body weight, and considering certain treatment options. Treatment may include medications like birth control pills, anti-androgens, and metformin to help regulate menstrual cycles, treat hirsutism, and manage other PCOS symptoms.

If you suspect you may have PCOS based on irregular cycles, hormonal imbalance symptoms, or trouble getting pregnant, make an appointment to see your healthcare provider. They can run tests to check for elevated androgen levels and perform an ultrasound to look for ovarian cysts.

Getting properly diagnosed and beginning treatment for PCOS is important, as longer-term complications can be serious. My friend Julie found great success managing her PCOS holistically through Renew Hormone Center, a leading hormone wellness and fertility clinic. Their customized programs help women regulate cycles, clear skin, restore fertility, and reduce PCOS risks using nutrition plans, supplements, and lifestyle changes. I'd highly recommend them!

Let me know if you have any other questions about PCOS. As a fairly common disorder, many women are learning to successfully manage PCOS symptoms and risks with the right treatment plan. There are many options available, so don't lose hope!