Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormone imbalance that can affect ovulation. It can cause problems with your periods and make it hard to get pregnant.
Doctors don't know for sure what causes PCOS, but it seems to run in families. It also seems to be linked to obesity and a risk for diabetes.
You may have other symptoms. These include weight gain, acne, hair growth on the face or body, high blood pressure, and high blood sugar. Your ovaries may have cysts on them. These cysts are growths filled with fluid.
Keep in mind that even though you may not have regular periods, you can still get pregnant. Talk to your doctor about birth control if you don't want to get pregnant. Sometimes the hormone changes with PCOS can also make it hard to get pregnant. If this is a concern, talk to your doctor about treatment for this problem.
With PCOS, you may go for months or longer with no period. Your doctor may recommend medicines that can help regulate your cycle.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you're having a problem with your medicine.
Eat a healthy diet. Include vegetables, fruits, beans, and whole grains in your diet each day.
If you're overweight, talk to your doctor about safe ways to lose weight. Losing weight can help with many of the symptoms of PCOS.
Get at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days of the week. Walking is a good choice. Or you can run, swim, cycle, or play team sports.
If you have symptoms that bother you, such as acne and excess hair growth, talk to your doctor about treatment options. Medicines can help. For unwanted hair growth, some prefer to use home treatments. These can include shaving, waxing, or other methods to remove the hair.
If you're feeling sad or depressed, consider talking to a counselor or to others who have PCOS. It may help.
When should you call for help?
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
You have severe vaginal bleeding.
You have new or worse belly or pelvic pain.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.
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