Find tips and tricks for managing PCOS health issues

As a woman with polycystic ovary syndrome, you know that PCOS comes with symptoms that range from irregular periods and infertility to unwanted hair growth and acne. Managing PCOS health issues can be a challenge, but you don’t have to do it alone. Texas Fertility Center (TFC) is home to experienced doctors who can help you take control of this condition.

Our Austin fertility center team provides tips for managing the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome, including advice regarding PCOS and weight.

First of all, what is polycystic ovary syndrome?

PCOS is one of the most common hormonal conditions in women. As many as 5 million women in the United States (8% of women) live with PCOS and its symptoms. As the name suggests, women with this condition have multiple cysts on their ovaries. But that’s not all. Women can also experience other symptoms.

• Irregular or absent periods and ovulation
• Heavy or prolonged periods
• Acne or darkened patches of skin
• Unwanted facial or body hair
• Weight gain
• Fertility issues
• Complications like metabolic syndrome, diabetes and cardiovascular issues
• Mental health conditions like anxiety and depression

These symptoms stem from a hormonal imbalance. While all women make small amounts of male hormones (androgens), women with PCOS make even more, which can lead to the problems listed above. Thankfully, our Austin fertility center team has tips for managing PCOS health issues and weight.

Tips for managing PCOS health issues and weight

Right now, there’s no cure for polycystic ovary syndrome. But it’s possible to manage the condition and its symptoms. Your PCOS management plan will depend on what symptoms you’re experiencing.

If you’re struggling with your weight, lifestyle changes can help. Eating a low-carbohydrate diet (high in protein and non-starchy vegetables) and getting regular exercise are great first steps. Losing weight also comes with an added bonus of improving fertility issues. Losing just 10 to 20 pounds can often be enough to help women with PCOS start ovulating again.

If you’re having trouble conceiving, weight loss might not be enough. In these cases, our Austin fertility center team may prescribe oral medications or recommend treatments like IUI or IVF to help make pregnancy possible.

If you have irregular periods and don’t want to conceive right now, your doctor might prescribe oral birth control pills. Not only can these pills regulate your cycle, they can also help with acne and unwanted hair growth and even protect against endometrial cancer.

If unwanted hair growth is bothering you, medications and creams can help. Some women also opt for laser hair removal for a more-permanent solution.

TFC can help you take control of PCOS

If you’d like more information about managing PCOS health issues and weight, contact us for an appointment. Our doctors are happy to help you learn more about this condition and how you can manage it to look and feel your best.