Polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS is a chronic medical condition that can interfere with fertility and cause an array of unpleasant and even embarrassing symptoms. At OBGYN Turlock, Dr. Fatemeh Pazouki uses state-of-the-art technology to diagnose PCOS and determine the best approach to treatment. Although there’s no cure, Dr. Pazouki is skilled in combining treatment options to relieve symptoms and improve overall quality of life in women from throughout the Turlock, California, region. Call the office or book online today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Pazouki.
PCOS stands for polycystic ovary syndrome, a condition that develops when your body produces an excessive amount of androgen hormones (like testosterone). Women who have PCOS develop multiple tiny, fluid-filled sacs (or cysts) inside their ovaries as a result of the unusually high levels of androgens. These sacs interfere with the ovaries’ ability to release eggs on a regular basis. As a result, women with PCOS often experience problems becoming pregnant. Although the exact cause of PCOS isn’t known, researchers think insulin production and heredity play a role, and some believe chronic inflammation may also contribute to PCOS.
In addition to causing multiple cysts inside the ovaries, the elevated androgen levels associated with PCOS often cause other symptoms like:
PCOS is also linked with increased risks of diabetes and heart disease. Women who have PCOS and do become pregnant have greater risks of developing high blood pressure and diabetes during pregnancy, and they also have increased risks of miscarriage and premature delivery.
If you have one or more symptoms of PCOS, Dr. Pazouki will order blood tests to measure the levels of hormones in your blood and to check for insulin resistance, which often occurs in women with PCOS. She’ll also review your medical history and perform a pelvic exam, and she’ll probably order ultrasounds of your ovaries or other diagnostic imaging exams to look for cysts and to rule out other possible causes of symptoms.
Although PCOS can’t be cured, the symptoms it causes can be managed with lifestyle changes and medication. Eating a healthy diet and getting plenty of exercise can help reestablish a better balance of hormones for many women, and medications are available to promote normal ovulation, control excess facial and chest hair growth, and improve fertility. Because PCOS increases the risks for other diseases like heart disease and diabetes, Dr. Pazouki may recommend regular tests and monitoring to keep you healthy.
