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Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

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Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders, affecting 5–10% of women of childbearing age. PCOS impacts ovulation, fertility, and overall health—but with the right care, symptoms can be managed effectively.

At Sheridan Memorial Hospital Women’s Clinic, our women’s health specialists diagnose and provide personalized treatment plans to help you take control of PCOS and improve your quality of life.

What is PCOS?

PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that affects how the ovaries function. Women with PCOS often produce higher-than-normal levels of androgens (male hormones), which can disrupt ovulation and cause a wide range of symptoms.

PCOS also affects metabolism, increasing the risk of:

  • Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
  • Insulin resistance
  • Type 2 diabetes

Symptoms of PCOS

PCOS symptoms vary, but common signs include:

  • Irregular or absent periods
  • Excess hair growth on the face, chin, or body (hirsutism)
  • Weight gain and difficulty losing weight
  • Acne or oily skin
  • Hair thinning or male-pattern baldness
  • Skin tags (often on the neck or underarms)
  • Ovarian cysts (seen on ultrasound)

Importantly, PCOS is a leading cause of infertility due to irregular ovulation.

How PCOS is diagnosed

Diagnosis begins with a full medical history, physical exam, and pelvic exam. Your provider may also:

  • Order blood tests to check hormone levels
  • Perform a pelvic ultrasound to look for ovarian cysts
  • Review family history, since PCOS often has a genetic link

PCOS treatment options

There is no cure for PCOS, but symptoms can be managed and fertility often restored with the right care. Treatment is customized based on your goals, such as improving symptoms, regulating cycles, or achieving pregnancy.

Lifestyle support

  • Weight management through healthy diet and regular exercise
  • Blood sugar management to reduce insulin resistance

Medications

  • Birth control pills to regulate menstrual cycles and improve acne
  • Fertility medications (such as Clomid) to stimulate ovulation
  • Metformin to improve insulin sensitivity

Fertility support

If pregnancy is your goal and medications aren’t effective, advanced options like in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be recommended.

Take the next step

PCOS is a common condition—but it doesn’t have to control your health or your future. With early diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan, many women successfully manage symptoms and achieve healthy pregnancies.

If you’re struggling with PCOS symptoms or infertility, call Sheridan Memorial Hospital Women’s Clinic today to schedule an appointment.