Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

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Plano Women’s Healthcare – Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is one of the leading causes of infertility in the United States. PCOS can affect fertility due to anovulation (failure of the egg to fully mature or be released by the ovary), hormone imbalance, or insulin resistance. The good news is that PCOS is treatable, and many women with PCOS can become pregnant. At Plano Women’s Healthcare, our OB/GYN specialists can offer guidance and treatment options while being with you every step of the way. If you are struggling with infertility or PCOS, please contact our office to request an appointment.

What Are the Symptoms of PCOS?

Some women who have PCOS remain unaware of it, whereas others experience tell-tale symptoms. Symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome include:

Irregular or missed menstrual cycles
Excessive hair growth (typically on the face, stomach, back, or chest)
Persistent acne, especially cystic acne
Infertility
Difficulty losing weight, being overweight or obese (BMI>30)
Multiple small cysts on the ovaries
Failure to ovulate (i.e., an egg does not release from the ovary during the menstrual cycle)
Elevated blood pressure
Insulin resistance, pre-diabetes, abnormal A1c

Symptoms of PCOS may occur during a woman’s first menstrual cycle, or individuals may find out later in life when they are having difficulty conceiving or have more symptoms.

Diagnosing PCOS

Women who are diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome usually have several of the most common symptoms, such as cysts, high androgen levels, and missed or irregular periods. In addition, pelvic exams and ultrasounds can help confirm a diagnosis of PCOS.

Treatments for PCOS

There are different treatment options for PCOS that your Plano Women’s Healthcare provider can discuss with you. Some of these options may include lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, maintaining a well-rounded diet, weight loss and lowering blood sugar levels. Medications may also be recommended to regulate your menstrual cycle, help with ovulation, or to reduce excessive hair growth. Our providers will take the time to understand your symptoms and work with you to find a treatment plan that addresses your needs.

PCOS and Fertility

PCOS impacts fertility levels due to a hormonal imbalance that disrupts the functioning of the ovaries and ovulation. Often, women with PCOS miss or have irregular menstrual cycles, making it difficult to become pregnant. Typically, women between 15-44 years of age are affected.

More specifically, the body’s levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are impacted. Lower levels of FSH mean that the ovaries are not producing egg follicles that mature, and less LH prevents a woman from ovulating. The egg follicles that are produced instead are filled with fluid and may become cysts.

Plano Women’s Healthcare Helps Treat
PCOS and Increase Pregnancy Outcomes

If you have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or are experiencing symptoms, you are not alone. Plano Women’s Healthcare can help you treat and manage your PCOS symptoms and address any fertility concerns you may have. Our all-female specialist team is located in Plano, Texas, and we serve the cities and communities surrounding us, including Dallas, McKinney, and Frisco.