Polycystic ovarian syndrome or PCOS is often discovered due to issues related to fertility. While PCOS often causes infertility, that is only one aspect of this complex issue.
What are the symptoms of PCOS?
- Irregular periods, or sometimes no period at all (this is due to ovaries not working properly)
- Acne (due to high hormones)
- Coarse hair growth on face, abdomen and/or back (due to high hormones)
- Weight gain and/or difficulty maintaining/losing weight (due to insulin insensitivity)
How is PCOS diagnosed?
- blood tests to assess androgen levels (testosterone and DHEAs)
- blood test to rule out other conditions (prolactin, LH, FSH, insulin, glucose)
- clinical assessment
How is PCOS treated?
Treatment for PCOS are aimed at accomplishing the following:
- regulate ovulation
- reduce androgen activity
- restore blood sugar regulation
- address cardiovascular risks
It is important to realize that PCOS comes with many long term health risks, including:
- diabetes including gestational diabetes
- cardiovascular disease
- endometrial cancer
To get started with Naturopathic Medicine book your assessment here or call 705-792-6717
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