Up to 20% of women worldwide live with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a disorder in which a woman’s body produces more male hormones than normal. PCOS can cause distressing effects like irregular periods, infertility, weight gain, excessive facial hair growth, acne, and ovarian cysts. The condition can raise the risk for long-term health problems, too, such as diabetes, metabolic syndrome, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Researchers don’t know exactly what causes PCOS. But it’s thought to be related to factors like insulin resistance, low-grade inflammation, and obesity. Heredity also plays a role. But here’s what we know for sure: The condition can be managed.
When patients come to me with PCOS, I like to share information with them about medications and lifestyle changes that can make a difference. Here’s a look at some things that can help.
Medications
Medications can be a key part of PCOS treatment, depending on a person’s symptoms and whether they hope to get pregnant. Options can include:
Birth control pills. Pills that contain both estrogen and progesterone are a mainstay for people with PCOS who aren’t trying to get pregnant. Birth control pills can make a person’s periods more regular and reduce side effects like hair growth and acne. They can also reduce the risk of some gynecologic cancers.
Anti-androgens. These medications, which prevent the body from producing androgens or limit their effects, can be a next step when birth control pills haven’t done enough to control symptoms like hair growth or acne. Although they are not FDA-approved for PCOS treatment, they can be prescribed off-label for symptom management.
Insulin-sensitizing medications. Options like metformin can reduce insulin resistance and help stabilize blood glucose. That in turn may lead to more regular periods.
Ovulation-triggering medications. A person needs to ovulate to have a chance at getting pregnant. Drugs like letrozole can make ovulation more predictable and improve fertility.
Cosmetic treatments. Creams and other topicals can be used to slow facial hair growth and reduce acne severity.
Diet and lifestyle adjustments
Healthy habits make a difference when you have PCOS. I counsel my patients about small but important changes like:
Working toward a healthier weight. For some, losing excess weight alone can make periods more regular and reduce insulin resistance. Even a 5% to 10% reduction in body weight helps.
Diet shifts. There’s no particular eating plan that’s best for PCOS. But choosing healthier foods overall can support weight loss.
Regular exercise. Daily physical activity is another key component of healthy weight management. It may also help reduce PCOS symptoms and even increase the effectiveness of PCOS medication.
Support for mental health
Research shows that people living with PCOS face a higher risk for depression and anxiety. Changes to your physical appearance, infertility, and having a higher risk for chronic conditions can take an emotional toll. Therapy and medications both can play a role in supporting your mental health if you’re struggling.
Get personalized PCOS care
Getting control of your PCOS starts with seeing a specialist who understands your concerns. Temple’s OB-GYN providers offer expert, compassionate care that’s personalized to meet your needs, including concerns about PCOS-related fertility. To set up a visit with a specialist, call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) or schedule one online.
Helpful Resources
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