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PCOS Awareness Month 2023

RSCNJ Supports PCOS Awareness Month

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormone disorder in women that is also the leading cause of female infertility, September is recognized as PCOS awareness month.

PCOS is one of the most underdiagnosed diseases in the world, with less than 30% of women with PCOS being diagnosed. According to the World Health Organization, 8% – 13% of women of childbearing age suffer from PCOS.

PCOS is characterized by three common characteristics: irregular or absent periods, excess androgens (elevated testosterone and androstenedione levels), and multiple cystic areas on the ovaries.

Other seemingly unrelated PCOS symptoms that patients might experience include:

• Infertility.
• Heavy periods and spotting between periods.
• Pelvic pain during or between periods.
• Mood changes.
• Weight gain.
• Fatigue, or low energy levels.
• Excess growth on the arms, face, back, chest, abdomen or hands and feet (also known as hirsutism).
• Hair loss or male pattern baldness on the head.
• Acne.
• Insomnia or poor sleep.

Testing and treatment

There is currently no cure for PCOS, however Reproductive Science Center of New Jersey offers a few treatment options. For women with PCOS who want to get pregnant, ovulation medications can help.

According to Resolve, The National Infertility Association, due to the wide variety of symptoms, most women are never officially diagnosed until they begin trying to conceive and seek help in getting pregnant. Request an appointment to learn more about your options.

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