What is PCOS and What are its symptoms?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition in which the ovaries produce an abnormal number of androgens, male sex hormones, that are usually present in women in small amounts.

The name Polycystic Ovary Syndrome describes the numerous small cysts (fluid-filled sacs) that form in the ovaries. However, some women with this disorder do not have cysts, while some others without the disorder do develop cysts.

In some cases, a woman doesn’t make enough of the hormones needed to ovulate. When ovulation doesn’t happen, the ovaries can develop many small cysts. Women with PCOS often have high levels of androgens. PCOS cause more problems with a woman’s menstrual cycle and here are the symptoms:

The symptoms of PCOS may include:
• Missed periods, irregular periods, or very light periods
• Ovaries that are large or have many cysts
• Excess body hair, including the chest, stomach, and back (hirsutism)
• Weight gain, especially around the belly (abdomen)
• Acne or oily skin
• Male-pattern baldness or thinning hair
• Infertility
• Small pieces of excess skin on the neck or armpits (skin tags) and
• Dark or thick skin patches on the back of the neck, in the armpits, and under the breasts

Lifestyle changes, like diet, exercise and #acupuncture all have a role to play to help manage PCOS.

If you would like a consultation to see how we can help you with your PCOS please call 954-228-3445.