Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and  You
 




Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in women 18-44 years of age and a common cause of infertility.
This syndrome is a collection of symptoms which may vary widely in degree between individuals, and includes such symptoms as absent or irregular periods, development of acne and/or excess hair growth of the face, abdomen, or upper thighs, and/or development of multiple small ovarian cysts.


Although the actual cause of PCOS is not well understood, it does appear that the sensitivity of a woman’s body to male steroid hormones (known as androgens) play an important role in PCOS. These androgens are normally present to some degree in all women and when the body’s sensitivity to androgens changes, symptoms of PCOS may begin to occur.


Due to this change in sensitivity to androgens, metabolic changes may also occur, including the ability of the body’s cells to respond to insulin in the bloodstream. This, in turn, causes the body to release higher levels of insulin to move glucose from the blood and into the cells. Over time, these changes may lead to the development of Type II diabetes. 


Other metabolic effects of PCOS include lipid and fatty acid abnormalities which may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
A variety of diagnostic and treatment options are available to monitor your health and to treat the symptoms of PCOS. 


Depending on the degree and severity of PCOS related symptoms, treatment options are tailored to your individual needs depending on the degree and severity of your PCOS related symptoms, your current reproductive desires, and associated personal or family medical health conditions.
 
To find out more about PCOS, contact our office and make an appointment to discuss your individual concerns and questions with one of our health care providers.

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What Our Patients Have Said...

Dear Dr. Sadowski: I just wanted to let you know that I really appreciated your compassion and understanding during my recent visit. I am glad I have access to the wonderful doctors and medical staff at Northwest Women's Consultants.
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