Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Teens: Care Instructions

Overview

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, too much hair on your 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.

With PCOS, you may go for months or longer with no period. Your doctor may recommend medicines that can help get your cycles back to normal.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact 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.
• Choose healthy foods. These can include whole grains, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and lean protein foods.
• 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. For many, 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 your doctor, a counselor, or others who have PCOS. It may help.

When should you call for help?

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have heavy vaginal bleeding. This means that you are soaking through one or more pads in an hour.
• You have new or worse belly or pelvic pain.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You feel sad, anxious, or hopeless and it's not getting better.
• You do not get better as expected.
• You have unusual vaginal bleeding.