Polycystic Ovaries

Reposting this BLOG.  I just did a consultation with a 53 year old woman yesterday who is certain that she had PCOS with a long history of female issues and eventually a hysterectomy, but "back then" she stated, they just didn't know it. 

We do know about the implications of PCOS "these days". Read on mothers, daughters, grandaughters, sisters, grandmothers..... you might just help your family member.


This is a SHOUT out to girls and young women who may be dealing with hidden practices and secrets related to polycystic ovaries.  What do you mean(?), you might be asking.  Did you know that it is not uncommon for a woman with this disease to have to shave?  Did you know that they often struggle with depression?  Did you know that they skip menstrual cycles of just don't have them at all?  Did you know that infertility is a huge problem for these patients?  Did you know that PCOS is becoming more prevalent?

Let me just give you a running list of some of the symptoms of PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome).

Infrequent menstrual periods, no menstrual periods, irregular bleeding, infertility because of no ovulation, increased hair growth on the face, chest, stomach, back, thumbs, or toes-a condition called hirsutism. Here's some more: ovarian cysts, acne, oily skin, dandruff, weight gain or obesity (around the waist), insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, male-pattern baldness or thinning hair, patches of thickened or dark brown skin on the neck, arms, breasts, or thighs, skin tags in the armpits or neck area, anxiety or depression due to appearance or infertility, sleep apnea and excessive snoring.  Hidden struggles as you see.... Who wants anyone to notice these things?  It makes me sad to see young women dealing with this syndrome.

There is no single test to determine if a woman has PCOS.  A comprehensive medical history will usually be taken along with a physical exam by the doctor.  I totally recommend that a person have a hormone panel done because there are some key identifiers and values that are helpful in determining if this is the problem.  I remember a 23 year old female that came to my office about 5 years ago.  She was referred by a friend who suggested she come in an get tested.  Thankfully she did.  After reading the lab results, I was able to refer her on to a physician friend of mine who started her on a prescription regimen that gave her quality of life again.  Her depression improved, she lost weight, the hair growth lessened on her face, she just looked brighter overall.  Yeah!!

There are effective treatments for PCOS.  (some prescription, some herbal, some lifestyle modification) If you know of a woman who may be dealing with these troublesome symptoms, please have them give my office a call.  I would love to talk with them.  I can walk them through the testing process, work with their personal physician, and get them on the road to better health.  Time is critical in treating this syndrome.  Call right away!

To your good health,
Dr. Sonja