Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

With the vast variety of possible diseases out there, women need to pay attention to their health and any irregularities that continue for several consecutive days. For a condition such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, PCOS, there are several possible causes. While age is not always a determining factor, PCOS is common among women usually in their 20s and 30s. Treatment will depend on the overall condition and lifestyle choices of the individual patient. In some cases, the best treatment will be lifestyle changes and some medication. Dr. Rodgers will help develop the best treatment method for each individual, taking care to answer any questions and address any concerns the patient may have. The first step is to identify that PCOS is the disorder the patient is struggling with.

Symptoms of PCOS

PCOS is a disorder in which the individual will have enlarged ovaries that contain follicles or small collections of fluid due to an imbalance of reproductive hormones. In many cases, PCOS is a result of a woman’s ovaries producing an excess amount of male hormones. It is important to note that each patient may experience different symptoms or react differently than other individuals. Symptoms of PCOS can include:

• Irregular periods
• Excess levels of hormones (known as androgens)
• Polycystic ovaries
• Excess hair growth on certain parts of the body
• Acne breakouts
• Weight gain
• Skin tags

A common symptom of PCOS and sign that something might be wrong with the individual’s health is the individual experiencing irregular periods. If a patient experiences a menstrual cycle that lasts longer than 35 days or experiences a lack of menstrual cycle for at least four months, then it is important to seek proper professional care. Irregular periods can also be symptoms or signs of other health risks for women. If a woman continues to experience irregularities with her menstrual cycle, then it is important to seek professional care regardless of what the cause actually is.

Possible causes and treatment options for PCOS

While there is debate over the exact causes of PCOS in women, there are a few known factors that seem connected to PCOS. One such factor is if a mother or sister of the patient has PCOS, then there can be a greater chance of the patient also having it. Another cause involves excess amounts of insulin, which can over-produce androgen in the body.

Treatment for PCOS varies per each individual patient. One of the basic treatment methods that Dr. Rodgers may recommend is lifestyle changes. Dr. Rodgers may recommend beginning a nutritional low-calorie diet and moderate exercise on a regular basis. Along with this, Dr. Rodgers may prescribe specific medications to regulate the menstrual cycle, help a patient ovulate or reduce excessive hair growth that results from the body producing too many androgen hormones.

Since there is no complete cure for PCOS, Dr. Rodgers will develop a treatment plan that addresses the specific problems and health concerns of each patient. Throughout the examination process, Dr. Rodgers welcomes questions from patients. We understand that there is a large variety of conditions one may need an OB/GYN to treat. We also understand that unknown conditions can be frightening.