Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) affects one in 10 women of childbearing age, and if left untreated it can lead to serious health complications. At Advanced OB/GYNE Associates in Hoffman Estates and Arlington Heights, Illinois, Dr. Das, Dr. Griggs, Dr. Kruyukov, and Dr. Khalid all offer experienced, compassionate care to Chicagoland women suffering from PCOS. If you have the condition or suspect you might, call the office or use online booking to schedule your comprehensive consultation.
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects women during their childbearing years. This gynecological condition causes prolonged menstruation and high levels of androgens (male hormones).
In most cases, your ovaries develop follicles or small collections of fluid that inhibit the proper release of eggs.
Symptoms of PCOS include:
Symptoms of PCOS generally occur during puberty or the first menstrual cycle, but can also develop later. The condition may also make you more likely to gain weight due to the hormonal imbalance.
If left untreated, PCOS can lead to complications such as:
The cause of PCOS isn’t definitive, but the following factors are believed to play a part:
Your pancreas produces the insulin hormone. Insulin allows your cells to use sugar as one of your body’s sources of energy.
Over time, cells can become resistant to insulin, and your blood sugar levels rise. In response, your body produces more insulin to compensate for this spike. High amounts of insulin can impact ovulation and increase androgen production.
Higher amounts of white blood cells produce substances to fight infection. This is known as low-grade inflammation, and with time it can lead to polycystic ovaries and excess androgen production in some women.
It’s also possible to have high levels of androgen hormones for reasons that remain unclear.
Certain genes have been linked to the development of PCOS.
If Dr. Das suspects you might have PCOS, she may use any of the following to help make an accurate diagnosis:
Dr. Das provides effective treatments and offers a variety of options to manage your PCOS, including:
Dr. Das can alleviate acne, pelvic pain, fatigue, infertility, and other symptoms and complications associated with PCOS. To learn more, call or use online booking to schedule an appointment.