What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome, known as PCOS, is a condition associated with abnormal amounts of androgens being produced by the ovaries. Androgens are male sex hormones that are usually at low levels in females. Many women with PCOS develop a large number of small cysts that form on the ovaries that produce the excess androgen.

Excess androgen in females is known to cause symptoms such as hirsutism (abnormal hair growth in a male pattern), resistant acne, and abnormal ovulation. The changes to ovulation can affect the menstrual cycle which can cause irregular menstruation, infrequent menstruation, or heavy menstrual bleeding. PCOS is also associated with insulin resistance, which increases the risk of obesity and make it more difficult to lose weight.

The preferred criteria for being diagnosed with PCOS is meeting 2 out of 3 of the following:
1) Irregular menstruation or lack of menstruation
2) Signs of excess androgen (hirsutism, etc)
3) Polycystic ovaries seen on ultrasound.
As always 45 Urgent Care is here for you. If you suspect you may have PCOS or would like to talk with a provider regarding your symptoms, stop by and see us. We are open Monday- Saturday from 8am to 8pm. No appointment needed, we take walk-ins 🙂

Joshua White PA-C