Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that’s fairly common among women of childbearing age. The cause of this condition is unknown. Symptoms of PCOS include:
- Excessive facial and body hair due to extra male hormone in the body (called hirsutism)
- Ovaries that don’t regularly release an egg
- Severe acne
- Sporadic, irregular menstrual periods
Signs and symptoms of PCOS are usually worse if you are very overweight or obese.
Our experts develop a personalized treatment plan to relieve symptoms and help you feel better. We consider your lifestyle and what’s important to you to design care that gives you the best possible results.
Tests
Physical Examination
Your doctor will perform a physical exam, including a Pap smear and testing for infection.
Hormone Testing
Hormone testing allows your doctor to evaluate hormone levels, which increase and decrease throughout your monthly cycle. Results can help your doctor find hormone imbalances and plan treatment.
Ovulation Evaluation
If your doctor suspects you’re not ovulating regularly, you may need to track your basal body temperature (your lowest temperature over 24 hours) over a few months to help pinpoint fertility problems and predict ovulation. Using a special thermometer, called a basal thermometer, you take your temperature first thing in the morning and write down the results. You do this every morning at the same time. Doctors also use urine tests to predict and assess ovulation.
Treatments
Lifestyle Modifications
Your doctor may recommend losing weight and increasing your physical activity to help stabilize hormone balance and reduce symptoms.
Medicines
Your care team may prescribe medicines — such as combination birth control pills or progestin therapy — to regulate your periods and restore a normal hormone balance.
Why Choose UHealth?
A comprehensive approach to infertility. Our team of experienced professionals includes female and male fertility specialists, endocrinologists, acupuncturists, and other specialists that work together to ensure your health and the health of your baby.
High pregnancy rates. We have some of the highest pregnancy rates not only South Florida, but also in the entire United States. Our success stories include even the most challenging cases.
The latest, research-backed treatments. As an academic medical center, we leverage the latest research completed by the nationally recognized University of Miami Miller School of Medicine to offer the latest treatments. We offer medical advancements before they’re widely available, provided by leading experts in fertility and endocrinology. You receive the most sophisticated diagnostic tests and advanced fertility treatments available.
Questions? We're here to help.
Our appointment specialists are ready to help you find what you need. Contact us today.