PCOS - Balance Hormone Clinic

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting approximately 5-10% of reproductive-aged women. Women with PCOS typically experience irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries.

The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but research suggests it results from complex interactions between genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Key features include:

• Irregular/prolonged menstrual cycles: Women may experience infrequent, irregular, or prolonged menstrual periods due to hormone imbalances impacting ovulation.
• Elevated androgen levels: Increased male hormones like testosterone overstimulate the ovaries, disrupting normal ovulation and leading to cyst formation.
• Polycystic ovarian morphology: Multiple small fluid-filled cysts develop in the ovaries due to failed ovulation. The cysts are benign but can enlarge or rupture on occasion.
• Metabolic abnormalities: Up to 80% of women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which exacerbates reproductive and metabolic disturbances. This confers increased susceptibility to impaired glucose tolerance, gestational diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease later in life.

Diagnosis involves assessment of clinical signs/symptoms, hormone levels, and ovarian ultrasound imaging. The Rotterdam criteria require at least two of the following: irregular menstruation, elevated androgen levels/clinical hyperandrogenism, and/or polycystic ovaries.

Treatment is aimed at managing both short-term symptoms and long-term health risks. Lifestyle modifications like weight management and exercise are foundational. Many patients also benefit from hormonal birth control pills and/or metformin to regulate menstrual cycles and counteract metabolic abnormalities. Treatment should be tailored to the patient’s symptom profile and reproductive goals with support from a knowledgeable multidisciplinary clinical team.

If you or a loved one are struggling to conceive or experiencing worrisome menstrual dysfunction, consult board-certified reproductive endocrinologists at Balance Hormone Clinic for cutting-edge, individualized care. Their integrated approach combines advanced diagnostics, personalized treatment protocols, nutritional counseling, and emotional support for complete PCOS management.