Terminology Tuesday- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) – Attain Fertility Blog

Terminology Tuesday- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

By: Maureen Higgins Tuesday Nov. 17th
Filed in: Fertility Focus, Terminology Tuesdays

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a problem in which the ovaries produce excessive amounts of male hormones and many small cysts grow within the ovaries.  PCOS is a common reproductive endocrine disorder and a common cause of infertility. It’s estimated that more 5% of reproductive age women have PCOS.

What are PCOS symptoms?

  • acne
  • weight gain and difficulty losing weight
  • menstrual irregularity
  • excessive hair growth known as hirsutism
  • fertility problems

How is PCOS diagnosed?

In addition to a physician obtaining a medical history and performing a pelvic exam, the following tests are usually done:

  • Blood tests- blood hormone levels will be tested such as follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, estrogen and androgens
  • Ultrasound- a scan is performed to identify small cysts in the ovaries
  • Endometrial biopsy-a sample of tissue is obtained and examined to help make clear why menstrual cycles are irregular.

It’s important to contact your physician to discuss the treatments available for PCOS.  The Shady Grove Fertility center has provided a PCOS treatment update.

2 Comments

  1. Your blog keeps getting better and better! Your older articles are not as good as newer ones you have a lot more creativity and originality now keep it up!

  2. Thanks so much for the positive feedback and being part of Fertility Focus. If you have suggestions on other topics we can discuss here, we’re all ears!

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