Patient education is key in the treatment of PCOS.  Once the patient has been diagnosed with this disorder, appropriate changes can be made to allow for a better quality of life for these patients.  The first step is lifestyle changes.  Signs and symptoms may be exacerbated by a patients weight; therefore implementing a low-calorie diet that will allow for weight loss can help to minimize and alleviate some of these unwanted signs and symptoms.

Regulating the menstrual cycle will address the hormonal imbalance that results in PCOS.  Please speak with your OB/Gyn to determine if a oral contraceptive would be appropriate to address this hormonal imbalance.  Oral contraceptives that contain both estrogen and progesterone can help to regulate the menstrual cycle alleviating abnormal bleeding.

Because anovulation is a pathognomonic sign associated with PCOS, it can really have a negative effect on women who are trying to conceive.  There are medications that will help to simulate a woman’s capability to ovulate.  Medications including Clomiphene may be appropriate if the woman is trying to become pregnant.  There are other medications that may be used to simulate ovulation; therefore, do not give up if the first line therapy is not successful.  Please discuss the different medications available that can stimulate ovulation.

Treating the other symptoms associated with PCOS can really help boost an individual’s self esteem. For example, increased hair growth all over the body is a sign of excess androgen production. There are medications that may be used to reduce excessive hair growth.  Spironolactone is a diuretic medication that actually blocks the effects of androgens on the skin and will result in a reduction of hair growth.  Other creams and medications may be used if the patient has contraindications to Spironolactone.  Each individual is unique and a unique treatment plan must be established to help the patient reach their desired results.

If an underlying medical condition is the reason for anovulation then the specific medical condition must be addressed.  Treatment of the signs and symptoms through the use of lifestyle changes and medication can provide for a better quality of life for these patients with this disorder.

Recommended Video: 5 Exercises for PCOS Patients