PCOS Testing Specialist in Chicago IL
PCOS is a frequent hormonal issue among women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS may not ovulate, have elevated testosterone levels, and have several tiny cysts on their ovaries. PCOS can result in inconsistent or skipped cycles of menstruation, excessive hair growth, acne, fertility problems, and weight gain. Dr. Michelle Trandai, MD, and her committed staff at our clinic provide PCOS testing to assist with the diagnosis and management of a broad range of persistent medical conditions that impact an individual’s well-being. For more information, please contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently in Chicago IL.
Table of Contents:
What is PCOS?
What does PCOS treatment include?
How is PCOS treated?
What are the first signs of PCOS?
What happens if PCOS is left untreated?
PCOS testing services are used to help diagnose and treat polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition that causes many women to have excess hair, acne, and menstrual irregularities. Today, the most common types of PCOS testing services used to diagnose and treat PCOS include blood tests, ultrasound exams, and tissue biopsies. These tests help doctors determine if a woman has PCOS and which treatment options may be best for her. The results of PCOS testing services will also help women to learn more about their condition, including when they should see a doctor, and what the prognosis for their condition looks like.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, excess hair growth, pelvic pain, and acne. In women with PCOS, the ovaries become enlarged and develop small cysts. These cysts can sometimes rupture and cause pain and bleeding. The diagnosis of PCOS is made based on the signs and symptoms that a woman presents with and the results of a series of diagnostic tests. PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility in females, with as many as five million American women carrying markers of the disease. Because it is, in many cases, asymptomatic, women with PCOS are often not aware that they have the condition until it causes pain, menstrual problems, or other symptoms. Furthermore, the symptoms of PCOS are often subtle and women may not notice them until they are well-advanced in the condition. It is often found in women who have been diagnosed with another condition such as endometriosis or hypothyroidism.
PCOS treatment typically includes lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes and exercising more regularly, as well as medications. Dietary changes typically involve consuming fewer calories and limiting carbohydrates; this is most commonly combined with moderate exercise activities, such as 30 minutes of physical activity every day. Even a modest weight reduction—for example, losing 5 percent of body weight—might improve the condition, as an increase in the severity of PCOS symptoms is linked with obesity.
PCOS is a complex condition that can present a wide range of symptoms depending on the specific circumstances of the situation. The treatment plan for PCOS is designed to address the symptoms the patient is experiencing. For example, to regulate the menstrual cycle, the doctor may prescribe a combination of birth control pills or progestin therapy. To promote ovulation, the doctor might recommend several different medications, including:
– Clomiphene
– Letrozole (Femara)
– Metformin
– Gonadotropins
To reduce excessive hair growth, which is a common symptom of PCOS, the doctor might recommend:
– Birth control pills
– Spironolactone (Aldactone)
– Eflornithine (Vaniqa
The first signs and symptoms of PCOS are quite varied, with many women experiencing no symptoms at all. However, when symptoms are present, they may include any of the following:
– Oligomenorrhea (infrequent menstrual periods)
– Acne
– Amenorrhea (cessation of menstrual periods)
– Heavy or light menstrual flow
– Infertility or trouble conceiving without medical help
– Being overweight or obese
– Hirsutism (excess body hair)
– Thinning of hair or baldness
– Oily skin
– Pelvic pain
– Dark, leathery lines on the skin (Acanthosis nigricans)
– Irregular menstrual periods
– Depression
– Anxiety or mood swings
– Miscarriage
– Preterm birth
– Risk of gestational diabetes
– Fatigue
– Daytime sleepiness
– Reduced interest in sex
– Binge eating
If PCOS is left untreated, it can progress into many health complications, including:
– Chronic irregular menstrual cycles/lack of periods
– Difficulty conceiving (due to not ovulating)
– Obesity (20% over ‘ideal’ weight)
– Adult acne
– Excessive unwanted hair growth
– Hair loss or thinning
– Insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes
If you are experiencing the symptoms of PCOS, come to Avant Medical Group for a professional and accurate diagnosis. Contact us today or book an appointment online for PCOS testing services, or visit our clinic conveniently located at 5449 N Broadway, Chicago, IL 60640. We serve patients from Chicago IL, Evanston IL, Ravenswood IL, Uptown IL, Lake View IL, Lincoln Park IL, Buena Park IL, Bowmanville IL, Boystown IL, and Roscoe Village, IL.
