Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormone problem for women, and more women suffer from it than many people realize. Up to 10% of women of childbearing age are affected by PCOS, and this condition can, in turn, affect their menstrual cycles, fertility, diets, skin, and overall health and well-being.
Luckily, there are ways to manage PCOS symptoms, and Dr. Philip Rabito, MD, is ready and willing to help women all across New York state get their PCOS under control. With over 20 years of experience in endocrinology, Dr. Rabito prioritizes high-quality treatment personalized to each patient’s body, needs, and hormones.
What is PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that affects many women of childbearing age. Mostly affecting adult women up to the age of 44, PCOS can also develop in teenage girls at any age after puberty. This health condition is typically caused by an imbalance of reproductive hormones in women and leads to high levels of androgens, cysts on the ovaries, and the inability to ovulate regularly. PCOS symptoms can cause a great deal of stress to many women, affecting not only their health and physical appearance but also their everyday lives.
What Are PCOS Symptoms?
While many PCOS symptoms may look like your average health condition, such as tiredness or acne, each symptom combined with another may be a telling sign that you are suffering from PCOS. PCOS may be diagnosed if you experience two or more symptoms at the same time. These symptoms can include:
- Irregular or very light periods
- Enlarged ovaries
- Frequent cysts on the ovaries
- Excess body hair on the stomach, back, or chest
- Weight gain, especially in the abdomen, or bloating in the belly
- Acne that seems unresponsive to most acne treatments
- Thinning hair
- Infertility
What Causes PCOS?
While the exact cause of PCOS is still unknown, it is generally understood that genetics combined with a woman’s environmental factors may play a possibility in causing this hormonal imbalance.
Women who suffer from PCOS typically have insulin resistance. When too much insulin builds up in the body, this causes androgen levels to rise, leading to weight gain, hair growth, and other symptoms.
How Can An Endocrinologist Help Patients with PCOS?
Because of their expertise and experience with treating hormonal disorders, endocrinologists can play a vital role in helping get your PCOS symptoms under control. By assessing your symptoms, diagnosing your condition, and taking into account your personal health, endocrinologists can provide the right kinds of treatment to help manage your PCOS symptoms. These treatments can include birth control to regularize periods, medications to prevent diabetes and balance insulin levels, hormones to increase fertility, and treatments that can help with excessive hair growth and hair thinning.
What Should I Ask My Endocrinologist About?
When consulting with Dr. Rabito for the first time, many patients with PCOS can learn the most about their condition and potential treatment by asking the following questions:
- Am I at risk for diabetes?
- What is your treatment plan for my PCOS?
- How are my cholesterol levels?
- What can I do at home to manage my symptoms?
- What are my chances of becoming pregnant?
Why Choose Dr. Rabito in New York, NY
When you choose Dr. Rabito, you receive personalized, comprehensive care designed to address all aspects of PCOS. Dr. Rabito takes a patient-centered approach, offering tailored treatment plans to help you manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. With a focus on compassion and expertise, Dr. Rabito ensures you feel supported throughout your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can PCOS symptoms change or worsen over time?
Yes, your symptoms can change, especially with weight fluctuations or hormonal shifts. Monitoring and regular check-ups are important.
Can PCOS go away on its own?
PCOS doesn’t go away completely, but symptoms can improve significantly with treatment and lifestyle adjustments.
Are there different types or severities of PCOS?
Yes, PCOS varies widely among individuals, with different symptom combinations and severity levels.
Can women with PCOS still ovulate sometimes?
Many women with PCOS do ovulate, though it might be irregular and unpredictable.
What lifestyle changes can help with PCOS?
Focusing on a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress reduction, and weight management can greatly improve symptoms.
Does PCOS affect mental health or mood?
Yes, you might experience mood swings, depression, or anxiety. Mental health support is an important part of PCOS care.
Is PCOS associated with other health risks besides diabetes?
PCOS can increase your risk of cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, and sleep apnea.
Can PCOS cause long-term complications if untreated?
Untreated PCOS can lead to serious health issues, including metabolic syndrome and infertility.
How does PCOS affect menopause?
While menopause ends menstrual cycles, hormonal imbalances from PCOS can continue to influence your health.
Is PCOS linked to cardiovascular disease?
Yes, PCOS is associated with a higher risk of developing heart disease.
What are the dietary recommendations for women with PCOS?
A diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and low in processed sugars can help manage insulin levels and weight.
Can exercise improve PCOS symptoms?
Yes, regular exercise can improve insulin sensitivity, help with weight control, and support overall hormone balance.
Are there alternative or natural therapies for PCOS?
Some women explore acupuncture, supplements, and herbal remedies, but you should always discuss these with your doctor first.
How often should I follow up with my endocrinologist if I have PCOS?
Regular check-ins, at least once or twice a year, are essential to monitor your health and adjust treatment as needed.
Can PCOS affect breastfeeding?
PCOS can sometimes delay milk production, but many women successfully breastfeed with proper support.
Can medications for PCOS have side effects?
Yes, medications may cause side effects, and your doctor will help you weigh the benefits and risks.
Does PCOS affect skin beyond acne?
You may also notice dark skin patches (acanthosis nigricans) and skin tags, especially in areas with friction.
Can PCOS symptoms return after stopping treatment?
Symptoms often return if treatment is stopped, making long-term management important.
How is PCOS diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of symptom review, blood tests, and pelvic ultrasound.
Are there support groups or resources for women with PCOS?
Yes, many online and local support groups can provide education and emotional support.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re tired of wondering why your cycles aren’t regular or why you can’t find a solution to eliminating acne, or are suffering from any of the above symptoms, it’s time to determine whether or not you may be suffering from PCOS. Once women find out their condition, most are relieved to find out there are ways to manage their symptoms to achieve a much more calm, manageable lifestyle. To schedule your consultation with Dr. Rabito, click here or call 877.703.3775 to reach our office in New York, located just steps away from the 77th Street subway stop on the 6 line.
