As women, taking care of our health can be complicated. The accessory package that comes with those two “X” chromosomes includes many wonderful things—and a few potential health challenges. The more you know about your body, the better you take care of it, so we’re spreading the word during PCOS Awareness Month about this condition that affects one in twelve women.
PCOS, or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, is a condition caused by an imbalance of the reproductive hormones. The cause is unknown, and early diagnosis and treatment are key. Common PCOS symptoms women may experience are irregular menstrual cycles, difficulty getting pregnant, excess face and body hair, weight gain and difficulty losing weight, pelvic pain, and depression and anxiety. PCOS is also linked to other health conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. As a fertility pharmacy that specializes in women’s health, Hann’s Pharmacy is ready to answer questions or help you find a product that fits your needs.
How is PCOS Diagnosed?
There is no single test to diagnose PCOS. However, your health care provider may use a combination of blood tests, physical exams, and pelvic ultrasounds to help determine whether PCOS is the cause of your symptoms. You may be diagnosed with PCOS if you have at least two of the classic symptoms such as irregular periods, multiple cysts on your ovaries, blood tests that show high levels of androgens, or outward signs of elevated androgens like excess facial hair, acne, or thinning hair on your scalp.
How Does PCOS Affect Fertility?
Because it often causes irregular menstrual cycles, women with PCOS may experience infertility due to less frequent ovulation or the inability to predict the timing of ovulation. This irregularity and unpredictability can increase the time it takes and make it more difficult to become pregnant. Though a PCOS diagnosis might cause great anxiety in women who wish to have biological children, there is good news: PCOS is a treatable cause of infertility. Talk to your health care provider about treatments to regulate and increase ovulation and increase your chances of getting pregnant.
How Do I Manage My PCOS?
There is no cure for PCOS, but there are many ways to manage the condition and live a full, healthy life! Your healthcare provider can help you with strategies to manage your PCOS. Proven management techniques include eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight (often a challenge with PCOS, so be kind to yourself), and getting regular exercise. These healthy lifestyle choices also help offset some of the other health conditions that often go hand in hand with PCOS. Your mental and emotional health can be challenged by PCOS, too, and many find a support group helpful. We suggest checking out the PCOS Awareness Association for additional resources to keep your PCOS in check.
With proper self-care and medication, life with PCOS is manageable. If you have questions about PCOS, stop in and visit us at Hann’s Pharmacy or call us at 703-454-8576.