Diagnosing polycystic ovary syndrome, (PCOS) can restore overall health and improve female fertility
At ArkLaTex Fertility, our patients and their well-being are the focus of all we do. Our Northern Louisiana fertility specialist, David T. Vandermolen MD, MS, delivers advanced infertility treatment and compassionate care. He specializes in addressing female infertility problems, including diagnosing PCOS, a hormone imbalance affecting women of childbearing age.
What is PCOS?
Also referred to as polycystic ovary syndrome, PCOS affects 5 million to 6 million women in the United States and is a leading contributor to female infertility. Women who have PCOS produce abnormally high levels of androgens, which are sex hormones that assist with body development, bone density, and provide precursors for estrogen production.
With PCOS, reproductive hormones are out of balance, which can cause irregular periods, unusual hair growth, weight gain and other health concerns. Diagnosing PCOS often occurs when patients come to see our Northern Louisiana fertility specialist when they can’t get pregnant.
How can I recognize PCOS symptoms?
Not every woman with polycystic ovary syndrome will exhibit obvious symptoms. In some cases, patients don’t notice any issues until they start trying to have a baby.
These are common signs of PCOS.
- Abnormal menstrual cycles
- Excessive facial and chest hair
- Acne beyond your teenage years
- Male-pattern baldness
- Weight gain
- Skin pigmentation changes
- Ovarian cysts
How does PCOS affect general health and cause female infertility?
The inability to conceive is a primary concern that brings patients into our clinic. Diagnosing PCOS is important not only because it can create female infertility problems. This condition also increases your risk for diabetes, heart issues, high blood pressure, sleep apnea and other health concerns. Additionally, PCOS raises the odds for pregnancy complications, such as miscarriage, gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia.
Receiving an accurate diagnosis is critical
If you present with symptoms of PCOS, Dr. Vandermolen will complete a full fertility evaluation and review your medical history. Our Northern Louisiana fertility specialist will also order blood tests and perform an ultrasound. Generally, we identify PCOS in patients who present with at least two of the following: high androgen levels, irregular periods, and multiple small cysts on the ovaries.
Common steps after diagnosing PCOS
The best treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome depends on your current plans. Lifestyle changes and hormone therapy can mitigate symptoms and improve your quality of life. For patients who want to have a baby, Dr. Vandermolen may start with fertility medications to stimulate egg production and release, known as ovulation. If that treatment alone doesn’t work, he may suggest moving to IUI or IVF.
Dr. Vandermolen is committed to helping our patients create the families they desire. Accurately diagnosing PCOS gives patients critical information and allows them to more proactively manage their fertility decisions. Contact our office to schedule a consultation appointment.