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PCOS

Daniel Kushner, MD

Obstetrics and Gynecology located in White Plains, NY & Queens, NY

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal imbalance that is common among women of reproductive age. Symptoms of period irregularity, pelvic pain, and hair growth can cause aggravation on a regular basis. Luckily, it is a treatable condition. Dr. Daniel Kushner is dedicated to reliving the tiresome symptoms of PCOS and providing an improvement in your health and physical appearance. To get your health back, call or click to book an appointment at his office, Daniel Kushner, MD, in White Plains and Queens, New York.

PCOS Q & A

What is polycystic ovary syndrome?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is caused by an imbalance of hormones and affects one in ten women during their childbearing years. It can affect your health and appearance, but it is a treatable condition. It is a common cause of infertility and ovarian cysts.

With PCOS, the ovaries are affected by the imbalance of hormones. This causes the ovary to develop an abnormal cyst or possibly not release the egg as it should. This results in missed or irregular menstrual periods.

Who gets PCOS?

Any woman, once she’s passed puberty, can get PCOS. Most women with PCOS only find out when they are trying to get pregnant and start experiencing symptoms or complications. It affects all races and is more common in those who have mothers, aunts or sisters with PCOS.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

PCOS may affect your general health and can include symptoms such as:

  • Irregular or missed menstrual period
  • Excessive hair growth on the face or chin
  • Hair loss on the scalp or male-pattern baldness
  • Acne
  • Weight gain
  • Darkening of skin
  • Skin tags
  • Pelvic pain

It’s important to discuss these symptoms with your doctor so that treatment can be considered and infertility can be avoided.

How is PCOS diagnosed?

Since there is not a single test to diagnose PCOS, your doctor will discuss your medical history with you and may perform a few of the following options to pinpoint the condition. These tests include:

  • Physical exam
  • Pelvic exam
  • Pelvic ultrasound
  • Blood tests

Dr. Kushner will take into account the results of these tests and consider your symptoms to make a diagnosis.

What treatments are available for PCOS?

If you are diagnosed with PCOS, there are a number of medicines and lifestyle changes that can be recommended to relieve symptoms.

Medications

  • Hormonal birth control: This is for women who are not looking to get pregnant and can include the pill, patch, shot, vaginal ring and IUD
  • Anti-androgen medicine
  • Metformin

Lifestyle Changes

  • Weight loss
  • Hair removal with creams, lasers or electrolysis
  • A healthy diet along with vitamins and supplements

Factors such as your health history, lifestyle, plans for children and current symptoms all play an important role in selecting treatment. Please don’t hesitate to give Dr. Kushner a call or book an appointment online to find out more about PCOS and treatment options.