PCOS

Women's Health Care Center of Houston

Obstetrics & Gynecology located in Memorial Hermann Tower & Methodist West Campus, Houston, TX

If you have irregular or heavy periods, you may need diagnostic testing for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). At Women’s Health Care Center of Houston, with two offices in Houston, Texas, the medical team offers onsite services to confirm PCOS in the early stages and tailor treatment plans to your needs. The team’s nurse practitioners are highly skilled in hormone therapies to regulate periods and increase your chances of achieving a healthy pregnancy. Find out more about available therapies for PCOS by calling the office nearest you or by booking an appointment online today.

PCOS Q&A

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects women in their reproductive years. PCOS is the result of a hormone disorder that can lead to a variety of symptoms and may increase your risk for long-term health complications, including heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

While the exact cause of PCOS isn’t well understood, contributing factors of the condition include chronic inflammation in the ovaries, genetic history, and excess amounts of insulin and the male hormone, androgen.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

The symptoms of PCOS typically develop in puberty, around the time menstrual cycles begin. It’s also possible to develop PCOS later in life, especially if you experience significant weight gain in the years after high school.

Symptoms of PCOS vary and affect women differently. Common signs you may have PCOS include:

Infrequent periods
Prolonged periods
Elevated androgen levels

Enlarged ovaries are also a common side effect of PCOS. The enlargement occurs when the follicles in your ovaries fill with fluids and prevent the release of eggs.

If you’re overweight or obese, symptoms of PCOS may be more severe. You should schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Women’s Health Care Center of Houston when your symptoms begin to interfere with your quality of life.

How is PCOS diagnosed?

The team at Women’s Health Care Center of Houston can diagnose PCOS and rule out other conditions that cause similar symptoms through a pelvic exam and diagnostic ultrasounds.

To evaluate your hormone levels, your physician may order blood tests that focus on your reproductive hormone and blood sugar levels.

How is PCOS treated?

The team at Women’s Health Care Center of Houston has two highly experienced nurse practitioners that specialize in hormonal disorders, including those that contribute to PCOS. They may recommend birth control pills or progestin-only therapy that can regulate your periods.

If you’re trying to conceive a child, your provider may also recommend medications to stimulate ovulation.

In addition to medication therapy, your Women’s Health Care Center of Houston provider works closely with you, providing guidance for necessary lifestyle and dietary changes that help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

Safe weight loss reduces the severity of PCOS symptoms and is also essential for your overall, long-term health.

If you have concerns about PCOS or need diagnostic care for unexplained symptoms, call the Women’s Health Care Center of Houston nearest you or schedule an appointment through the online booking system today.