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Top gynecologist in Atlanta and Alpharetta GA: what is polycystic ovary syndrome?

Top gynecologist in Atlanta and Alpharetta GA

Top gynecologist talks about polycystic ovary syndrome

The top gynecologist in Atlanta and Alpharetta GA can assist patients that are diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome which is a hormonal disorder that is common with women of reproductive age. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome may have prolonged or infrequent menstrual periods or an excess of the male hormone androgen. The ovaries may start to develop a small collection of follicles and fail to release eggs regularly.

This syndrome can affect your fertility, making it more difficult to get pregnant, there are treatments available for the symptoms and you still have a chance to get pregnant, but you may need to take medications to improve your fertility.

What causes polycystic ovary syndrome?

The causes of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) aren’t exactly known by doctors. But it is believed that a high level of the male hormone prevents the ovaries from creating eggs normally.

Insulin resistance, genes, and inflammation have all been linked to the excess production of androgen.

What are the symptoms?

Irregular, missed, or prolonged periods are the most common symptoms of PCOS. The excess levels of androgens can cause hair in places you don’t want it, such as on your face, hair loss, and acne. There are other symptoms, including:

How is this diagnosed?

There is not a single test that can diagnose PCOS. You will be asked by your doctor about your medical history and your symptoms, they will then do a physical exam, possibly a pelvic exam.

Your doctor may need you to have a blood test to measure your blood sugar, hormone levels, and cholesterol. You may also need to undergo an ultrasound to look for tumors, check your ovaries for cysts, and measure the lining of the uterus.

How is it treated?

There are a variety of different ways to treat PCOS depending on your needs and health history. The treatment may include different forms of medication, changes in your lifestyle, and surgery on the ovaries. Even though PCOS can cause infertility, with the appropriate treatment, many women with the condition are able to get pregnant.

Top gynecologist in Atlanta and Alpharetta GA: the bottom line

The top gynecologist wants you to understand that if your period is not happening when it should, or you have been diagnosed with PCOS already, you should work with your doctor closely to help get it under control. Living a lifestyle that is healthier with regular exercise, a better diet, less stress, no smoking, and control of diabetes and other medical conditions can improve your odds of fertility.

Contact your top Alpharetta and Atlanta OBGYN for your obstetrics and gynecology care.

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