Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects many patients during the reproductive years. PCOS can disrupt ovulation and hormone levels, often leading to irregular periods, higher androgen levels, and small follicles on the ovaries.

PCOS can affect your menstrual cycle, skin, weight, and fertility. With the right care, symptoms can be managed and long-term health risks can be reduced. MyObgyne provides PCOS evaluation and treatment in San Tan Valley, AZ with individualized care based on your symptoms and goals.

What Is PCOS?

PCOS is a complex condition that involves hormone imbalance and irregular ovulation. The exact cause is not fully understood, but PCOS is often associated with elevated androgens and insulin resistance.

Many patients are diagnosed with PCOS when they meet at least two of the following criteria:

• Irregular or absent periods due to irregular ovulation
• Elevated androgen levels, identified through blood testing or physical symptoms
• Enlarged ovaries with multiple small follicles seen on ultrasound

Symptoms and severity can vary, so evaluation focuses on your specific concerns.

Common Symptoms of PCOS

PCOS symptoms often begin around puberty, but they can also develop later. Common symptoms include:

• Irregular or missed periods
• Excess facial or body hair growth
• Acne or oily skin
• Thinning hair or hair loss on the scalp
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Dark patches of skin, often in skin folds
• Difficulty getting pregnant

Some patients have mild symptoms, while others experience multiple concerns that affect daily life.

What Causes PCOS?

The cause of PCOS is still being studied. Several factors may play a role, including:

• Insulin resistance: higher insulin levels can increase androgen production
• Genetics: PCOS often runs in families, so family history is important
• Hormonal imbalance: higher androgen levels and changes in luteinizing hormone (LH) may contribute

Long-Term Health Risks

Without proper management, PCOS can increase the risk of several long-term health concerns, including:

• Type 2 diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol and heart disease
• Endometrial hyperplasia and endometrial cancer related to infrequent ovulation
• Sleep apnea
• Depression and anxiety

Early diagnosis and a consistent care plan can help reduce these risks.

How Is PCOS Diagnosed?

There is no single test for PCOS. Diagnosis typically includes a review of symptoms and menstrual history, along with targeted testing such as:

• Blood tests to evaluate hormone levels and insulin markers
• Pelvic ultrasound to assess ovarian appearance
• Rule-out testing for other hormonal disorders that can mimic PCOS symptoms

We focus on identifying your symptom pattern to guide treatment and follow-up care in San Tan Valley, AZ.

Treatment Options

While there is no cure for PCOS, symptoms can often be managed with lifestyle support and medical treatment. Your plan will be based on whether your priorities are cycle regulation, fertility support, symptom management, or long-term health.

Lifestyle support may include:

• Nutritional guidance and weight management support
• Regular physical activity to improve insulin sensitivity
• Stress reduction strategies and sleep support

Medications may include:

• Hormonal birth control to regulate periods and reduce androgen-related symptoms
• Metformin to support insulin resistance in appropriate patients
• Anti-androgen medications to address acne and excess hair growth
• Fertility medications such as letrozole or clomiphene when pregnancy is the goal

Additional options may include:

• Ovarian drilling in select fertility cases, though it is rarely used
• Dermatologic treatment options for acne or unwanted hair growth

PCOS and Fertility

PCOS is one of the leading causes of ovulation-related infertility. Many patients with PCOS are able to conceive with appropriate evaluation and treatment. Fertility support may include:

• Ovulation induction with oral or injectable medications
• Ovulation cycle monitoring
• Referral to a fertility specialist when needed

Even if you are not trying to conceive now, cycle regulation can support long-term reproductive health.

Get the Support You Deserve

PCOS can feel overwhelming, especially when symptoms affect your body, mood, or confidence. With evidence-based care and a plan tailored to your needs, it is possible to manage symptoms and protect your long-term health.

If you are experiencing symptoms of PCOS in San Tan Valley, AZ, schedule an appointment with MyObgyne for evaluation and a personalized treatment plan.