PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that can affect your menstrual cycle, weight, skin, and fertility. At Creekside OB/GYN of Folsom in Folsom, California, board-certified OB/GYN Timothy Phelan, MD, FACOG, Mandi O'Brien MSN, FNP-BC, and their expert team provide comprehensive care for PCOS. The team works with you to create personalized treatment plans, manage your symptoms, and improve your hormonal balance. Call the office or schedule an appointment online to receive the individualized care you deserve.

What is PCOS?

PCOS is a chronic condition causing cysts (fluid-filled sacs) to grow along your ovaries, the two glands on each side of your uterus that produce hormones and eggs. These cysts contain follicles, or immature eggs, which can prevent your ovaries from regularly releasing eggs during ovulation.

Without proper treatment, PCOS can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, difficulty getting pregnant, and other symptoms. The Creekside OB/GYN of Folsom team specializes in diagnosing and treating PCOS to help manage uncomfortable symptoms and improve fertility.

What are the warning signs of PCOS?

PCOS isn’t always obvious. The symptoms can be vague, come and go, and often vary in severity. Common warning signs of PCOS typically include:

• Irregular or missed periods
• Difficulty getting pregnant
• Unexplained weight gain
• Enlarged ovaries
• Ovarian cysts
• Acne
• Oily skin
• Male-pattern baldness (thinning hair on your scalp)
• Increased hair growth on your face and body
• Skin tags and darkening skin patches

While these symptoms don’t always indicate PCOS, a thorough exam is essential to diagnose or rule out the condition.

Who is at risk of getting PCOS?

Any woman can get PCOS, but certain factors may increase the risk, including:

• Excess weight
• Hormonal imbalances (elevated levels of male hormones called androgens)
• Insulin resistance and Type 2 diabetes
• Close relatives with PCOS

If you have any of the above PCOS risk factors, the Creekside OB/GYN of Folsom team can provide a personalized evaluation and care to help manage your symptoms.

When does PCOS typically start?

Many women develop PCOS symptoms during puberty, but others don’t notice any changes until early adulthood. Your symptoms may be subtle at first but intensify over time. The earlier you seek treatment for PCOS, the better your chances are at minimizing their effects on your physical and mental health.

How do doctors treat PCOS?

Creekside OB/GYN of Folsom offers many personalized treatments for PCOS, including:

• Lifestyle modifications like a healthy diet, exercise, and weight management
• Medications such as birth control pills, anti-androgen medications, and insulin-sensitizing medications
• Fertility support 
• Nutritional counseling
• Birth control pills
• Progestin therapy

The team can also recommend effective treatments for the cosmetic concerns of PCOS, like acne and excess hair.

Don’t wait to seek care for PCOS. Call Creekside OB/GYN of Folsom or schedule an appointment online to receive personalized treatment and support tailored to manage your symptoms.