PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects approximately 1 in 10 women of childbearing age. The condition causes hormonal imbalances and metabolism issues that can lead to painful symptoms and changes in your overall health. Fortunately, Vivek Bansal, MD, and the team at The EnLyv Clinics offer exceptional PCOS care at their locations in Bridgewater Township, Flemington, and Edison, New Jersey. Treating patients aged 12 and older, the team offers customized treatment plans that may include medication and lifestyle improvements. To learn more about PCOS, call the practice today or use the convenient online booking tool. 

What is PCOS?

PCOS is a common hormone disorder that can affect women of any reproductive age. 

With PCOS, ovaries or adrenal glands produce more male hormones than normal. Ovaries may develop numerous small collections of fluid (follicles) and release eggs irregularly or not at all. 

While the exact cause for PCOS is uncertain, you may be at higher risk if your mother or sister has it, if you have insulin resistance, or if you’re obese.

Early treatment can help reduce long-term complications like Type 2 diabetes or heart disease.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

Many women discover they have PCOS in their 20s and 30s or when they have trouble getting pregnant. PCOS issues can also affect your appearance, physical health, and well-being. 

Symptoms may include: 

• Irregular or nonexistent periods
• Excess male hormone (androgen) 
• Abnormal body hair 
• Thinning hair or male-pattern baldness 
• Oily skin, acne, or skin tags
• Darkening of skin near body creases 
• Weight gain or issues with losing weight
• Infertility

PCOS is also linked to other health problems, including diabetes, unhealthy cholesterol, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, endometrial cancer, depression, and anxiety. It’s imperative to inform your provider about any health issues that may relate to PCOS. 

What are my treatment options for PCOS? 

To accurately diagnose PCOS, your provider discusses your symptoms and medical history and performs a comprehensive physical exam. They check for an enlarged thyroid gland, skin or hair abnormalities, an enlarged clitoris, or swollen ovaries. 

They may recommend a blood test to decipher your androgen hormone levels and determine if your PCOS is actually a thyroid disease, diabetes, or a cholesterol imbalance.

Although there is no cure for PCOS, if the team determines you have the disorder, medicine and at-home lifestyle changes can improve your symptoms.

Your treatment plan may include: 

• Weight loss support (improved diet and exercise) 
• Hair removal products or procedures 
• Hormonal birth control 
• Anti-androgen medications
• Diabetes medications (to lower insulin resistance in PCOS)

If you have PCOS but want to get pregnant, the team may also encourage in vitro fertilization (IVF) or surgery, and they can refer you to an outside specialist. 

For expert PCOS care, call The EnLyv Clinics today or schedule an appointment online.