Do I Have Polycystic Ovaries?

Ovary Health In Young Women

When you’re in your childbearing years, the health of your ovaries is important. You may also be aware, of a condition called polycystic ovaries (PCOS). PCOS can lead to difficulty falling pregnant.

If you are wondering, “Do I have PCOS?” read more.

PCOS Can Be Difficult to Diagnose?

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) can present differently from women to women. The combinations of symptoms can be difficult to decode.

Let’s help you understand the possible symptoms of PCOS, as well as the treatments available if you have PCOS.

Symptom - Irregular Periods

Infrequent or irregular menstrual periods are the most common symptom of PCOS. For example, you may only have eight or nine periods in a year, or go 35 to 40 days between cycles.

Symptom - Heavy Periods

Some women experience abnormally heavy periods in addition to or instead of the irregularity of cycle.

Symptom - Weight Gain

Clearly, there are many reasons a woman might put on some weight, so don’t assume it’s due to polycystic ovaries. That said if you’re gaining weight around the midsection, rather than elsewhere, and if it’s proving hard to lose that weight, it could be a symptom of the polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Symptom - Excess Facial Hair

Many women with PCOS find themselves growing facial hair in places they’d rather not find it. New facial hair on the chin, face, or other parts of the body where men usually are hairy, can be a symptom of PCOS.

What’s behind this is the unusually high levels of male hormones, called androgens, present in women with PCOS.

Symptom - Acne, Hair and Skin

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome can also cause acne on the face, chest or back, thinning hair or male pattern baldness, or darkened areas of the skin, particularly in areas with creases, like along the neck or under the breasts.

How To Tell If I Have PCOS?

When asking yourself that question of ‘Do I have PCOS?’, remember that despite all of these fairly clear symptoms, there is no way to self-diagnose a case of PCOS.

What Treatments Are Available For PCOS

Treatment for PCOS is about managing the symptoms.

Firstline management is always lifestyle – diet, exercise and weight control. Following this hormonal control of the irregular periods and the effects of high male hormone can be considered.

It is possible to conceive with PCOS but you may need some help.

Your Next Step

Dr Alexander can talk to you in detail about a definitive diagnosis. A blood test may be required to measure hormones, and a physical exam will help determine the cause for your symptoms.

Dr Alexander can also offer advice and suitable treatments. Arrange an appointment now for peace of mind and body.

For patients suffering any of the above symptoms, we would advise that you see your general practitioner and possibly obtain a referral to see Dr Alexander at www.alexalexander.com.au