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Understanding PCOS: Symptoms, Treatment, and Support for Women in Portland

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PCOS can impact your menstrual cycle, fertility, metabolism, and emotional health, yet many women don’t realize they have it. Learn how PCOS is diagnosed, treated, and supported through every stage of life.

A woman lies on a couch holding her lower abdomen, appearing to experience pelvic pain or discomfort. She is wearing a yellow sweater and blue jeans. The image illustrates common symptoms of PCOS such as abdominal pain or cramping.

September is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Awareness Month. This is the perfect time to shine a light on a condition that affects 1 in 10 women, and many don’t even know they have it! It is a complex hormonal disorder that can impact menstrual cycles, fertility, metabolism, skin, and emotional well-being. Despite its prevalence, PCOS often goes undiagnosed or misunderstood.

At Northwest Women’s Clinic, we specialize in women’s health across all life stages. That includes expert, compassionate care for those living with PCOS in Portland and the surrounding areas.

1. What Is PCOS and What Causes It?

PCOS is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It involves an imbalance in reproductive hormones, particularly elevated levels of androgens (“male” hormones). This imbalance can interfere with the development and release of eggs during ovulation.

Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. Others may struggle with acne, excess hair growth (hirsutism), or mood changes.

2. Recognizing the Symptoms

You don’t need to have ovarian cysts to have PCOS. Key symptoms to watch for include:

  • Irregular or missed periods
  • Difficulty conceiving
  • Acne or oily skin
  • Hair thinning or male-pattern hair growth
  • Unexplained weight gain
  • Mood swings or depression

If you’ve experienced any of these symptoms, it’s worth bringing them up during your OB/GYN visit. Early intervention can make a big difference.

3. How Is PCOS Diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually involves a review of your symptoms, a physical exam, blood tests to check hormone levels, and sometimes an ultrasound to look at the ovaries. It’s important to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, such as thyroid disorders or adrenal issues.

Our OB/GYNs in Portland take a whole-person approach to PCOS care, considering not just lab results but how symptoms are affecting your quality of life and long-term health.

4. Treatment Options Tailored to You

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to PCOS. Your treatment plan will depend on your specific symptoms and whether you’re planning to get pregnant. Options may include:

  • Lifestyle changes: A balanced diet, regular physical activity, and weight management can improve insulin sensitivity and regulate periods.
  • Birth control pills: Help manage menstrual cycles, reduce androgen levels, and improve acne.
  • Metformin: A medication commonly used to treat insulin resistance and support metabolic health.
  • Fertility support: If you’re trying to conceive, we may recommend medications like letrozole or refer you to a fertility specialist.

We also address related issues like anxiety, depression, and self-esteem, which are often under-discussed aspects of living with PCOS.

5. Ongoing Care and Long-Term Health

PCOS doesn’t go away, but it can be managed. Ongoing care with a knowledgeable provider helps reduce your risk for complications like type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and endometrial cancer. We’ll work with you to monitor your health over time and adjust your care plan as needed.

Looking for PCOS treatment in Portland, Oregon?

Our experienced OB/GYN team at Northwest Women’s Clinic is here to support you with compassionate and customized care. Book your appointment by calling 503-416-9922.

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