PCOS
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Apple Hill Gynecology
Gynecology & Endometriosis Specialist located in York, PA
One out of every 10 women of childbearing age in the United States has polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is a hormonal condition that affects fertility. At Apple Hill Gynecology in York, Pennsylvania, Marsha D. Bornt, MD and the all-female team specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of PCOS and can develop a plan to improve your hormone balance and fertility. Call the office or book an appointment online today.
PCOS Q & A
What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?
PCOS is a gynecological condition that develops due to an imbalance in reproductive hormones. The hormonal imbalance causes problems that affect your ovaries and ovulation.
You may develop PCOS if your body releases too much of luteinizing hormone or insulin, which triggers your ovaries to produce high amounts of androgens, which are male sex hormones.
PCOS is very common and affects women of all ethnicities between the ages of 15 and 44. You may be at greater risk of developing PCOS if you’re obese or you have a family history of the hormone imbalance.
What are the symptoms of PCOS?
Irregular periods are the most common PCOS symptom. Women with PCOS may have fewer than eight menstrual cycles a year and may have trouble getting pregnant.
Other PCOS symptoms include:
- Facial hair
- Acne
- Thinning of hair on the head
- Weight gain
- Difficulty losing weight
- Dark patches of skin on the neck, under the breasts, or in the groin area
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, contact Apple Hill Gynecology to schedule an evaluation.
How is PCOS diagnosed?
No single test can diagnose PCOS, and the team at Apple Hill Gynecology conducts comprehensive evaluations to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms. During your exam, your provider asks detailed questions about your symptoms, menstrual cycle, gynecological history, medical history, and family history. Your provider then conducts a physical and pelvic exam.
Additional testing may be requested to confirm or rule out other causes, such as blood work to assess hormone levels and/or an ultrasound to look for ovarian cysts.
When other causes are ruled out, your provider may diagnose you with PCOS if you have two of the following:
- Irregular menstrual cycle
- Symptoms of high androgen levels (acne, facial hair, thinning hairline)
- Elevated blood androgen levels
- Many ovarian cysts on one or both of your ovaries
Once you have a diagnosis, the team works closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan.
How is PCOS treated?
Currently, PCOS can’t be cured, but the team at Apple Hill Gynecology offers treatments to alleviate symptoms.
Your PCOS treatment plan may include:
- Hormonal birth control
- Anti-androgen medication
- Metformin to help control blood sugar
The team may also suggest lifestyle modifications to manage other symptoms, such as a healthy diet and exercise program for weight management, as well as various aesthetic or medical treatments to improve facial hair and acne.
For comprehensive and compassionate care for your PCOS, contact Apple Hill Gynecology by phone or through the online tool.
