What is polycystic ovary syndrome?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal imbalance that disrupts ovulation. It is a condition that affects one in 10 women of childbearing age.
If you have PCOS, your ovaries produce unusually high levels of androgens (male hormones), which may disrupt your reproductive hormone balance, resulting in irregular menstrual cycles, missed periods and unpredictable ovulation. On an ultrasound, you may see a higher than normal number of small follicle cysts (fluid-filled sacs with immature eggs) on your ovaries due to lack of ovulation (anovulation). These cysts aren’t dangerous or painful, and, despite the name “polycystic,” not everyone with PCOS has cysts on their ovaries.
Having PCOS may increase the risk of developing metabolic syndrome (high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, high blood sugar and weight gain). Metabolic syndrome is also a risk factor for health conditions, including heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea and stroke. PCOS can be associated with female infertility.
Your women’s health specialist can help you find lifestyle changes and treatments that can help alleviate symptoms, reduce your risk of complications and improve your chances of having a baby, if that’s your goal.
Symptoms of PCOS
A diagnosis is typically made when you have at least two of the following clinical findings:
- An increased number of cysts on one or both ovaries, which, despite the condition’s name, do not occur in all women with PCOS
- Irregular periods, including missed periods, absence of periods or heavy bleeding (menorrhagia) during periods
- Higher-than-normal levels of androgens (male hormones) on blood work or physical exam
The symptoms of PCOS can vary widely and are related to the hormonal imbalance. They may include:
- Irregular periods: Inconsistent ovulation may lead to infrequent or too frequent periods.
- Darkening of the skin: Patches of dark skin, known as acanthosis nigricans, may develop in the folds of the neck, armpits, groin and under your breasts.
- Excessive hair growth: Women may experience excessive hair growth on the face, chest, abdomen or upper thighs. This condition, called hirsutism, affects more than seven in 10 women with PCOS.
- Infertility: Lack of ovulation due to high androgen levels may cause infertility.
- Hair loss: PCOS may cause thinning hair or hair loss.
- Skin problems: Women may experience skin tags, oily skin, or severe or persistent acne on the face, chest or upper back.
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight: Obesity affects four out of five women with PCOS. Excess weight often centers around the midsection.
When to see a doctor
Visit your OBGYN or primary care physician if you have fewer than eight periods in a year or have periods more frequently than every 21 days. You should also speak to your provider if you are experiencing infertility or if you have symptoms of PCOS.
Your provider can help determine whether PCOS or another condition is causing your symptoms.
Find specialized care for PCOS
The women’s health providers at Baylor Scott & White offer comprehensive care for PCOS and can arrange specialized care for infertility and other complications at our women’s health centers across North and Central Texas.
