PCOS

FemmPro OB/GYN & FemmPro MIDWIFE

FemmPro OB/GYN & FemmPro MIDWIFE located in Garden City, NY & Massapequa, NY

Approximately 10% of women suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS. As a result, they’re vulnerable to problems with their menstrual cycle, fertility, and appearance. The skilled team at FemmPro OB/GYN, with two locations in Garden City and Massapequa, New York, provides diagnosis and management of PCOS so you can live a completely normal life. Call today for an appointment or book online via ZocDoc if you have symptoms that suggest PCOS.

PCOS Q & A

What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

PCOS is a condition in which you have high levels of androgens, or male hormones, that affect your ovarian function and metabolism. PCOS is likely a genetic condition, usually diagnosed in your 20s or 30s.

Women with PCOS don’t always develop eggs properly and release them as usual, compromising their menstrual cycle and fertility. PCOS sufferers may also develop symptoms, such as acne and male-pattern balding, due to the high level of male hormones. Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes development are also associated with PCOS.

What are the signs of PCOS?

PCOS affects women during their childbearing years. It’s often discovered when you go in for a fertility workup due to problems conceiving.

Signs of PCOS include:

Infertility
Acne
Increased hair growth in certain areas
Hair loss that mimics male-pattern baldness
Irregular periods or absence of your period
Unexplained weight gain
Skin tags

The practitioners at FemmPro OB/GYN may order an ultrasound if they suspect PCOS. Often the condition causes cysts to show up in your ovaries, impairing egg development and release each month. These cysts differ from follicular cysts.

A blood test to evaluate your hormone levels can also reveal PCOS.

How is PCOS treated?

PCOS cannot be cured, but it can be effectively managed. Most women go on to live completely normal lives, and those who wish to start a family can conceive with some assistance.

Lifestyle changes help you minimize issues such as weight gain, acne, and irregular hair growth. The doctors at FemmPro OB/GYN help guide you in terms of dietary and movement changes that can optimize your metabolic health. Birth control pills or other oral hormone medications can help regulate an irregular menstrual cycle.

PCOS is a common cause of infertility, but it’s also quite treatable. If you’re trying to get pregnant, the doctors may offer medications, such as Clomid®, to help you ovulate, so you naturally conceive. In some cases, in-vitro fertilization is also an option. Most women with PCOS go on to have healthy pregnancies.

To learn more about PCOS and its management, call FemmPro OB/GYN or schedule an appointment online via ZocDoc.