Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can lead to problems that have a long-term impact on your health, from infertility to weight gain and Type 2 diabetes. The doctors at Capital Women’s Care provide expert medical care for PCOS, relieving your symptoms and helping you prevent ongoing problems. To learn more about PCOS, book an appointment at one of our offices in Rockville or Silver Spring, Maryland.

​Rockville: 301-424-3444

Silver Spring: 301-593-5595

---

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) FAQs

What is PCOS?

PCOS is a condition that develops due to a hormone imbalance. Women with PCOS have abnormally high levels of androgens, which are male sex hormones typically found in small amounts in women. As a result, eggs inside your ovaries may not develop normally or an egg may not be released every month.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

PCOS can develop any time after puberty and throughout your reproductive years. The three primary symptoms are:

• Abnormal menstruation: Periods may be longer or heavier than normal, irregular, or stop completely
• Ovarian cysts: Ovaries develop fluid-filled cysts
• Hirsutism: Excessive hair growth on your face and body due to high androgen levels

Many women also develop one or more of the following symptoms:

• Acne
• Hair loss
• Skin tags in armpits or neck
• Darkening of skin on the neck, groin, or under breasts

What health conditions are associated with PCOS?

PCOS increases your risk for other health problems, including:
InfertilityPCOS is one of the top causes of female infertility because your ovaries stop producing or releasing eggs.
Being overweightPCOS leads to weight gain in more than half of all women who develop the condition. The weight gain may be caused by high levels of androgens or because women with PCOS tend to develop insulin resistance.
Insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetesAn estimated 40% of women with PCOS develop insulin resistance even if they don’t gain weight. When you have insulin resistance, your body doesn’t use insulin properly. As a result, blood sugar levels increase and you’re at risk for developing Type 2 diabetes.
Metabolic syndromeYour risk for metabolic syndrome increases when you have PCOS. Metabolic syndrome refers to having a cluster of chronic problems, including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and excess fat around your waist.

How is PCOS treated?

Since there’s no cure for PCOS, your treatment is designed to relieve your symptoms. Lifestyle changes such as diet or exercise are implemented when necessary to help you lose weight or improve problems like high blood pressure.
Your doctor may also prescribe one of the many medications that can:

• Regulate menstrual periods
• Promote ovulation
• Improve insulin sensitivity or lower blood sugar
• Eliminate excessive hair growth
• Treat acne

As soon as you notice symptoms of PCOS, call Capital Women’s Care so you can start treatment to prevent chronic disease.
​​​​​​​​Rockville: 301-424-3444 | Silver Spring: 301-593-5595