Overview & Prevalence
What does PCOS stand for?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
What are the 3 most common risk factors for developing PCOS?
1. Excess androgens
2. Insulin resistance
3. Inheritance
Name a common symptom of PCOS
-Irregular menstrual cycles
-Hirsutism
-Acne
-Weight gain
-Dark, thick patches on the skin
Name the three medications used for PCOS
1. Hormonal birth control
2. Insulin resistance medications
3. Anti-androgen medications
What type of diet is recommended for individuals with PCOS
Anti-inflammatory diet
What primarily causes PCOS?
hormone imbalance
What are androgens?
male hormones for development
Health care provider will typically ask about these things when diagnosing an individual with PCOS
1. General health
2. menstrual cycle
3. medical history
4. family history
What does hormonal birth control help with relating to PCOS
Helps regulate periods, lower androgen levels, reduce acne
Regular _____ can help improve insulin sensitivity and hormone balance
exercise
How many women globally are diagnosed with PCOS?
10-13%
PCOS, insulin resistance, hormonal imbalances, and obesity
This diagnostic tool checks ovaries for cysts/inflammation
ultrasound
What insulin medication is most commonly used to treat PCOS?
Metformin
This lifestyle factor can be easily overlooked but plays a huge role in hormone balance
stress
What hormone is increased with PCOS?
androgens
What is insulin resistance?
The body becomes less responsive to insulin and in return produces excess insulin
What diagnosis method tests hormone and blood glucose levels?
Blood tests
What role does anti-androgen medication have?
Blocks androgen receptors
Best practices for long term control
balanced diet + consistent exercise
What percent of women remain undiagnosed?
up to 70%
Is the exact cause of PCOS known?
No
What is Hirsutism?
excess hair on the face, chest, arms, stomach, or any other part of the body
Which medication option has these side effects: increase in potassium levels, nausea, and breast tenderness
Anti androgen medication
Name 3 prevention methods for PCOS
1. Early screenings
2. Maintain a healthy weight
3. Monitor insulin resistance & type 2 diabetes