Trusted PCOS Specialist in Florida

PCOS

Approximately one in 10 American women suffers from polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, a condition related to a hormonal imbalance. The OB/GYN team at The Women's Center, with convenient locations in Orlando, St. Cloud, Altamonte Springs, Oviedo, Winter Park and Celebration, Florida, can evaluate your PCOS symptoms and offer treatment. To find out more about PCOS, call one of the offices in Orlando, St. Cloud, Altamonte Springs, Oviedo and Celebration, or book an appointment online.

PCOS Q & A

What is polycystic ovary syndrome?

Polycystic ovary syndrome describes an imbalance of reproductive hormones that cause problems in a woman’s ovaries. Women with PCOS usually have too many androgens, or male sex hormones. As a result, the eggs developed in the ovaries may not release as they should or form regularly. PCOS can lead to infertility and the development of cysts in the ovaries.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

You don’t have to experience all of the symptoms of PCOS to be diagnosed with the condition. You may have some of the following that warrant a visit to The Women’s Center for an evaluation:

Irregular periods that are infrequent or prolonged
Excess facial and body hair
Severe acne
Male pattern baldness
Enlarged ovaries (detected on an ultrasound)
Darkened skin, especially in the creases around the breasts or under the arms

The inability to get pregnant and difficulty managing your weight are additional symptoms of PCOS.

What other health problems are associated with PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome has been linked to other health problems. These include:

Diabetes
High blood pressure
Sleep apnea
Endometrial cancer

Women with PCOS commonly experience depression and anxiety and sleep problems, too.

How is polycystic ovary syndrome treated?

No cure is available for PCOS, but symptoms – including infertility – can be managed.

If you do not want to get pregnant, hormonal birth control such as the pill and some IUDs can help control your symptoms by making your menstrual cycle more regular and reducing your risk of endometrial cancer. Hormonal birth control can also help improve symptoms such as acne and excess hair. If you’re overweight, losing extra pounds can help relieve PCOS symptoms, too.

If you do want to get pregnant, your doctor at The Women’s Center may recommend Clomid, a fertility drug that encourages you to ovulate. If you don’t respond to this medication, they may recommend in-vitro fertilization. Many women with PCOS go on to have successful pregnancies.

To learn more about PCOS and your options for treatment, call one of the offices of The Women’s Center or use the online tool to make an appointment today.