PCOS is a common hormone imbalance: the ovaries may not release an egg every month, male-hormone levels run high, and the body often resists insulin.
Irregular periods are the hallmark, with acne and extra hair growth as common companions. Treatment targets your goals - hormonal birth control to regulate cycles, metformin for insulin resistance, weight management for the underlying picture, and ovulation-inducing medication when pregnancy is the goal.
What to do
Common questions
What is PCOS and how is it treated?
PCOS - polycystic ovary syndrome, now also called polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome - is a common health problem caused by an imbalance of reproductive hormones. The ovaries may not release an egg every month, male-hormone levels run high (driving acne and extra hair growth), and the body often does not respond normally to insulin. Irregular or missed periods are the hallmark. Treatment targets your goals: combined hormonal birth control regulates cycles and reduces male-hormone symptoms for those not trying to conceive; metformin addresses the insulin resistance; weight management improves the underlying hormone picture; and for pregnancy, ovulation-inducing medications are the first step. Because PCOS raises long-term risks of diabetes and heart disease, treatment is also prevention. Pymander, a free AI doctor available 24/7 by text, can help you understand symptoms and prepare for a doctor visit.