How Do I Know If I Have PCOS?

Have you ever wondered why your periods are so irregular or why you’re struggling with unexplained weight gain, acne, or even hair loss? You might not realize it, but these could be signs of a condition that affects millions of women worldwide—Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Understanding the symptoms of PCOS early can make a world of difference in managing your health. So, how do you know if you have PCOS? Let’s explore the signs and what steps you can take next.

What is PCOS?

PCOS is an endocrine disorder, afflicting females of reproductive age. This syndrome leads to infertility, insulin resistance, obesity, and cardiovascular problems, including a litany of other health issues. This may sound frightening, but PCOS is common; it is also misunderstood. Understanding the symptoms of PCOS and seeking an early diagnosis is crucial for managing the condition effectively and preventing long-term health complications. The good news? With the right diagnosis and care, PCOS is highly manageable, and there are many treatment options available that can help you regain control of your health and well-being.

What are the Symptoms of PCOS?

The symptoms of PCOS may include, but are not limited to:

Missed periods or irregular periods
Extra body hair
Weight gain around the belly
Acne
Infertility

PCOS Causes & Risk Factors

The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but risk factors include:

Genetics. Research suggests that PCOS is genetic. If your mother had PCOS you have a higher chance of developing the condition.
Insulin Resistance: This occurs when the body’s cells don’t respond properly to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. As a result, the body produces more insulin to manage blood sugar levels.
Excess androgen: Elevated androgen levels can lead to symptoms such as excessive hair growth on the face and body (hirsutism), severe acne, and thinning hair on the scalp. These symptoms occur because androgens interfere with the normal hormonal balance needed for regular ovulation and menstruation. In PCOS, the ovaries often produce more androgens than usual, disrupting the menstrual cycle and leading to the development of ovarian cysts.

How is PCOS Diagnosed?

There are a few ways to diagnose PCOS such as:

Physical Exam: Checking for signs of hirsutism, acne, and weight gain.
Ultrasound: Checking for the presence of ovarian cysts.
Blood Tests: Measuring hormone levels (androgen, insulin, etc).
Medical History: Discussion of menstrual cycles, fertility, and family history.

Treatment Options for PCOS

Lifestyle changes: Eating a balanced diet with nutritious foods such as fruits, vegetables, and protein sources, along with regular exercise and weight management. The CDC recommends that adults get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity a week.
Reducing inflammation: Getting enough deep sleep or practicing meditation can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Medications: Typical medications to treat PCOS include hormonal birth control options such as an Intrauterine Device (IUD) or Birth Control Pills (OCPS). Besides hormonal birth control, other options include androgen-blocking medications or medications that help with insulin resistance.
Mental Health support: PCOS can be challenging and affect your mental health. Treatment options could include therapy from a licensed professional or treatment with medication.

Are there Supplements I Can Take for PCOS?

Before starting any new supplement regimen, consult your healthcare provider. Research indicates that certain supplements such as curcumin, Vitamin D, Inositol, and CoQ10, may offer benefits for managing PCOS.

Curcumin has anti-inflammatory effects, improves hyperandrogenism, lowers LH, reduces insulin resistance and induces ovulation in women with PCOS.
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism, improving insulin sensitivity, and decreasing insulin resistance.
Inositol lowers insulin resistance, improves reproductive function, improves oocyte quality, and restores ovulation in patients with PCOS.
CoQ10 exerts anti-inflammatory effects.

When to See a Doctor for PCOS

If you’re experiencing symptoms such as irregular periods, a prolonged period, unexplained weight gain, acne, or excessive hair growth, it’s important to see a healthcare provider to determine if you have PCOS. Early diagnosis of PCOS is crucial because it allows for prompt management of the condition, which can significantly improve long-term health outcomes. Addressing symptoms proactively can help prevent the development of more serious health issues like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and infertility. Revere Health is here to support you with specialized PCOS services, available at multiple convenient locations throughout Utah, including several in Utah County.