Understanding Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS): Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Hello, this is Dr. Gandhi with Cherokee Women’s Health Specialists, and I would like to discuss polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) with you today. PCOS is a hormonal imbalance characterized by an increase or excess of androgens, particularly male testosterone.

Watch Dr. Gandhi’s accompanying video.

Symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Patients with PCOS often experience symptoms such as irregular periods, sometimes with intervals of three or four months without a period, increased facial hair growth, weight gain, pelvic pain, and ovarian cysts detected through ultrasound.

Diagnosing PCOS

To diagnose PCOS, we conduct a physical exam, discuss the patient’s symptoms, and perform laboratory testing and ultrasound imaging. Treatment options for PCOS include lifestyle changes, such as following a low glycemic diet and engaging in regular exercise to manage insulin levels. Hormonal birth control and anti-androgen medications are also utilized. For some patients with PCOS and infertility, a combination of medical and potentially surgical interventions may be recommended.

Help is Available

It’s crucial to understand that PCOS is more common than one might think, affecting about one in ten women. Often, adolescents with irregular periods are put on birth control pills without addressing the underlying condition. Therefore, it’s essential to seek evaluation and treatment if experiencing PCOS symptoms.

We, as healthcare providers, are here to support you through this condition. Please don’t hesitate to reach out for evaluation and management. We are well-versed in treating patients with PCOS and are dedicated to your well-being. Call us today at 770.720.7733 or simply request an appointment online at either our Woodstock or Canton location.