Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

 

The condition affects an estimated 1 out of every 10 young women and can cause irregular menses, acne, and unwanted hair growth. The team at Texas Pediatric & Adolescent Gynecology provides services to identify the condition as early as possible. Oluyemisi Adeyemi-Fowode, MD, provides comprehensive diagnostic blood and imaging tests to confirm PCOS. The team also tailors a treatment plan to address irregular periods, severe acne, and other side effects of PCOS. Call Texas Pediatric & Adolescent Gynecology in Sugar Land, Texas, to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for polycystic ovary syndrome for your child today or book an appointment online.

 

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Q & A

 

What is polycystic ovary syndrome?

 

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common disorder in which a girl’s ovaries produce excessive amounts of male hormones (known as androgens). This hormonal imbalance can cause irregular periods, acne, and unwanted hair growth.

 

Tiny cysts or bumps may also form inside the ovaries. Symptoms of PCOS often begin to appear during the teenage years.

 

 

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

 

The symptoms of PCOS typically start around the time of a girl’s first period. The symptoms of the disorder can vary and often include:

 

• Irregular periods
• Abnormally heavy periods
• Severe acne
• Excess body hair

 

Other complications from untreated PCOS can include Type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, abnormal uterine bleeding, and mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. Early diagnosis and treatment is the best way to reduce your child's risk for long-term complications and infertility.

 

How is PCOS treated?

 

The team at Texas Pediatric & Adolescent Gynecology focuses your child's treatment plan on managing their individual symptoms and preventing more serious complications. After they complete a history, physical, blood tests, and evaluate your ovaries with ultrasound imaging, the team customizes a care plan to address PCOS symptoms.

 

Lifestyle changes that help you maintain a healthy weight and optimal blood sugar levels are important. It’s also important that teens exercise daily to protect their overall health.

 

Some girls may need hormonal therapy to decrease excess androgen levels and regulate their periods. Hormonal therapy can also address acne and prevent excessive facial and body hair growth.

 

The team at Texas Pediatric & Adolescent Gynecology continues to monitor your child’s condition and symptoms during follow-up visits.

 

To schedule a diagnostic evaluation for symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome for your teen, call Texas Pediatric & Adolescent Gynecology today or book a consultation online.