Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common and frustrating women’s health concern. It affects about 1 in 10 women of childbearing age, and in some cases, symptoms can appear as early as a woman’s first period. PCOS often presents with a variety of symptoms that can be general or confusing, making it challenging to diagnose. Despite this complexity, identifying and managing PCOS early can significantly impact a woman’s health.
Understanding the Symptoms of PCOS
Women should consider talking to an OB-GYN if they experience some of the following signs:
Menstrual Irregularities: If your periods are irregular or “regularly irregular” (meaning your cycle is inconsistent but follows a pattern), this can be a sign of PCOS. You may experience cycles that are longer than 35 days, or miss periods altogether.
Difficulty Getting Pregnant: PCOS is a leading cause of infertility due to irregular ovulation. If you’ve been trying to conceive for over a year without success, it’s a good time to talk to your OB-GYN. For those already diagnosed with PCOS, seeking help after six months of trying is recommended.
Referrals from Other Specialists: If a dermatologist or endocrinologist has referred you to an OB-GYN due to symptoms like acne, excess hair growth, or other signs of hormone imbalance, these may be linked to PCOS.
Why Early Detection is Important
The sooner you understand if you have PCOS, the faster you can begin managing symptoms and preventing long-term complications. Untreated PCOS can increase your risk for other health concerns, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and endometrial cancer. Additionally, managing PCOS can improve fertility outcomes and alleviate frustrating symptoms like weight gain, hair growth, and acne.
If you believe you may have PCOS or have questions about the condition, talking to an OB-GYN is the first step. They can guide you through the diagnostic process and help you find solutions that fit your needs. Remember, you are not alone, and there are treatment options available that can help you live a healthier, more balanced life.
At Hati Health, we are committed to empowering women to take control of their health, offering the resources, telehealth consultations, and laboratory tests for support necessary to manage conditions like PCOS. Don’t wait to prioritize your health—schedule your appointment today!
What to Expect at Your OB-GYN Consultation
If you’re concerned about PCOS, your OB-GYN can help assess whether this condition is the cause of your symptoms. Since there is no single test to diagnose PCOS, it often requires multiple evaluations, which may include:
Medical History: Your OB-GYN will ask about your menstrual cycles, any recent weight changes, medications, diagnosed conditions, and family history of hormonal disorders like PCOS or diabetes.
Description of symptoms: This may include checking for signs of excess body hair or acne, common markers of high androgen levels. If you are having an in-clinic consultation, a pelvic exam will help identify any abnormalities in your reproductive organs.
Ultrasound: A transvaginal ultrasound might be necessary to examine your ovaries for cysts, which can be a key indicator of PCOS.
Blood Tests: These will check your hormone levels, including estrogen, progesterone, and androgens, as well as for signs of insulin resistance, a common feature of PCOS.
If you are not sure about your symptoms, get your laboratory tests for PCOS and consult with our OBGYNs to understand more about your health.
Our PCOS laboratory packages include the necessary tests for your OBGYN to have a complete picture of your health and arrive at a diagnosis.
Hati Health is a digital platform for women, providing on-demand access to products and services, including telehealth, symptom checking, holistic wellness plans and education.
We believe that being able to talk openly about women's healthcare and bringing appropriate solutions will inspire women to achieve their fullest potential in their personal and professional lives.
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