If you had a medical condition that could explain a number of your difficult symptoms, would you want to know? Most of us would, as long as we could find effective treatment for the condition and start feeling better.

One group of women who could really benefit from knowing where their symptoms are coming from are those with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a hormonal disorder affecting 10% of women, but only half of them know that they have it. The other half have no idea what is causing their frustrating symptoms.

I’d like to invite you to learn just a little bit about PCOS. It is likely that you know at least one woman who is suffering from these symptoms without any idea that there are simple changes she can make to help! 

 

Symptoms

Symptoms of PCOS may include one or all of the following…

• irregular cycles
• weight gain (especially around the middle)
• acne
• hair loss on the head
• hair growth on the face or in more of a traditional make pattern (hirsutism)
• sugar cravings and hangry attacks
• anxiety, depression and more

Many women with these symptoms feel like something is wrong with themself. They need to be told that it’s not their fault. Learning about PCOS and what is driving their symptoms can bring hope that they haven't had in a while.

 

Diagnosis 

In order for a doctor to diagnose you with PCOS you need to meet at least two of the following criteria. 

• Lack of ovulation causing irregular (or no) periods.
• Higher androgen (male hormones) that may result in acne, hair loss on the head, hair growth on the face and back. This can be tested via labs, or simply visible in symptoms. 
• Multiple small cysts on the ovaries visible on ultrasound. 

This means that you don’t have to have cysts on your ovaries to have PCOS!

 

What Next?

While there is no cure for PCOS, there are many things you can do to address the root causes of the condition and control your symptoms. For many women with PCOS the root cause may be any combination of the following issues

• insulin resistance
• thyroid
• adrenals
• inflammation 

When the underlying cause(s) are addressed, many of the symptoms will become manageable and even disappear altogether. 

 

 

I love helping women with PCOS understand their bodies better and walk with them on their journey to health. If you or someone you love wants more information on PCOS, consider signing up for our free online PCOS class or joining our FREE Facebook group.

Dr. Jamie

*Not all doctors are equipped to make this diagnosis, so it can be valuable to work with a specialist. Please feel free to reach out to me. I would be glad to lead you in getting an accurate diagnosis.

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