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September is PCOS Awareness Month

Join Reproductive Science Center of New Jersey in being aware and informed

 Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a set of conditions resulting from an imbalance of hormones that can involve multiple cysts on the ovaries and affect the ovulation of women. It can cause issues with menstrual cycles, infertility, the heart, blood vessels and appearance.

PCOS is the most common cause of female infertility. The cause of PCOS is unknown, though experts believe genetics and family history play a role. High levels of androgen hormones from elevated levels of insulin may also be linked to the hormonal imbalance that causes PCOS.

Over half of the 10,000,000 women that have PCOS, are unaware of it. Spreading awareness helps educate the public that symptoms like irregular periods and pelvic pain are not something to be ignored and could be indicative of a great issue.

Common signs and symptoms

• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Cysts on the ovaries
• Excessive hair growth (hirsutism)
• Weight gain
• Acne
• Skin tags
• Pelvic pain
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Sleep apnea.

Testing and treatment

There is no test to diagnose PCOS but doctors can use medical history, a physical or pelvic exam, blood tests or a sonogram to help determine if a woman has PCOS.

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 be helpful.

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