June 10, 2025
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects individuals with ovaries, especially during reproductive years. It can cause irregular periods, excess male hormones (androgens), and sometimes multiple small cysts on the ovaries.
Symptoms of PCOS
PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that affects ovarian function and cause a disturbance in menstrual cycles.
Common symptoms of PCOS can include:
Irregular Menses
– Missed Periods: PCOS often leads to anovulation (lack of ovulation), which blocks the usual hormone signals for menstruation and are disrupted leading to infrequent, absent, or irregular menstrual cycles.
– Heavy or Prolonged Bleeding: When ovulation does not occur, the body makes estrogen but not enough progesterone (usually released after ovulation) causing uterine lining to build up excessively, leading to heavier and longer periods when bleeding finally occurs.
– Fertility Challenges: Irregular ovulation for a prolonged period of time can make it more difficult to predict fertile windows. As a result, the ability to conceive naturally may be impacted.
Increased androgens
– Androgens are a type of sex hormones that play a key role in the maintenance of reproductive activity.
– In biologic women, androgens are produced in smaller amounts by the ovaries and adrenal glands. When the female body overproduces androgens, this can lead to acne, excess facial or body hair growth, and hair thinning.
Ovarian cysts
– Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled can form on or in the ovaries
– The cysts can be undeveloped egg follicles that are not able to mature due to a lack of ovulation.
– These immature follicles can accumulate and present on an ultrasound as “polycystic” ovaries.
Fun Fact: You don’t need to have ovarian cysts to be diagnosed with PCOS!
How Is PCOS Diagnosed?
There’s no single test. Diagnosis is based on at least two of the following:
– Irregular ovulation
– Elevated androgen levels (via blood test)
– Polycystic ovaries seen on ultrasound
Doctors may also review:
– Menstrual history
– Weight trends
– Hormone and insulin levels
Tip: Keeping a symptom diary can help during diagnosis.
Long-Term Health Risks
If unmanaged, PCOS may increase the risk of:
– Type 2 Diabetes
– Heart disease
– Sleep apnea
– Endometrial cancer
Take Action: Schedule regular checkups and screenings for blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
Bottom Line
PCOS is a lifelong condition but can be managed with the right care. Early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and ongoing support are key.
Talk to a Specialist
At Empire Endocrinology, we tailor treatment plans to your needs. If you suspect PCOS or want help managing it, book a consultation today.
⚠️ Note: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice.
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802 Magnolia Ave Ste 200 Corona CA 92879
13768 Roswell Ave Ste 121 Chino, CA 91710
MONDAY-FRIDAY 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
MON-TUES: CHINO
WED-FRI: CORONA