PCOS

PCOS Care at Maria Regina OB/GYN

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects millions of women, often causing frustrating symptoms and long-term health concerns. Many women struggle for years before receiving a proper diagnosis or treatment plan. At Maria Regina OB/GYN, our specialists bring extensive experience in identifying and managing PCOS. We take a comprehensive, personalized approach to help you understand your condition and regain control of your health. When you are ready to take the next step, we are here to support you.

PCOS Q & A

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal condition that affects women during their reproductive years. It is associated with an imbalance of hormones—particularly an increase in androgens, often called “male hormones.” These hormonal disruptions can interfere with normal ovulation, menstrual cycles, metabolism, and overall reproductive health.

Hormones play a critical role in regulating your menstrual cycle, fertility, and many other bodily functions. When these chemical messengers become imbalanced, a wide range of symptoms can develop, making PCOS a challenging condition to diagnose without proper evaluation.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

PCOS affects each woman differently. Symptoms vary in type, severity, and frequency, which is why many women go undiagnosed for years. Some may experience only a few symptoms, while others may face multiple challenges at once.

Common symptoms include:

Irregular or absent menstrual periods
Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
Excess hair growth on the face, chest, back, or abdomen (hirsutism)
Acne or oily skin
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Thinning hair or hair loss on the scalp
Ovarian cysts
Headaches

Because these symptoms can mimic other conditions—or be mistaken for normal changes—many women do not seek help until problems worsen. Early evaluation and diagnosis are key to preventing complications.

Why is it important to treat PCOS?

When untreated, PCOS can lead to serious health issues. Ovulation problems can cause infertility or difficulty conceiving. PCOS is also strongly associated with insulin resistance, which increases the risk of metabolic syndrome—a cluster of conditions that raise the likelihood of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease.

Other potential complications include:

Sleep apnea
Chronic fatigue
Depression and anxiety
Increased risk of endometrial hyperplasia or uterine cancer

PCOS affects both physical and emotional well-being, which is why early intervention and continuous management are so important.

How is PCOS treated?

Treatment for PCOS is highly individualized. There is no single universal approach; instead, care is tailored to your specific symptoms, health goals, and reproductive plans.

At Maria Regina OB/GYN, your treatment plan may include:

Hormonal birth control to regulate menstrual cycles, reduce excess hair growth, and improve acne
Medications that improve insulin sensitivity, especially if insulin resistance is contributing to your symptoms
Fertility medications for women trying to conceive
Lifestyle guidance, including nutrition, exercise, and weight management strategies to help stabilize hormone levels
Hair growth treatments or hair removal options such as laser therapy
Supportive therapies for emotional well-being, sleep disorders, or related conditions

Our goal is to improve your long-term health, restore hormonal balance, and address the symptoms that most affect your quality of life.

If you suspect you may have PCOS or are looking for a more effective treatment plan, contact Maria Regina OB/GYN. Schedule an appointment online or call our office to connect with one of our experienced providers. Together, we can help you find answers and achieve better health.