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Managing PCOS: Diagnosis, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Managing PCOS: Diagnosis, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Irregular periods, unexplained weight gain, or difficulty conceiving often signal something more than your regular hormonal fluctuations.

Farly Sejour, MD, FACOG, Natalie Gould, WHNP-BC, and our Solace Women’s Care team in Conroe, Texas, help women understand and manage polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) — a common but often misunderstood condition affecting one in 10 women of reproductive age.

The correct diagnosis takes time, but early recognition and proper treatment can dramatically improve your symptoms and long-term health. Here’s everything you need to know about PCOS, including the telltale symptoms, diagnostic plan, and treatments available.

PCOS symptoms vary widely between women

Many women live with PCOS symptoms for years before getting diagnosed because the condition affects everyone differently. Some women struggle primarily with fertility issues, while others deal with weight management or skin problems.

Common signs that prompt women to seek evaluation include:

You don’t need all these symptoms to have PCOS. Having just a few persistent issues warrants evaluation.

Diagnosis requires multiple steps and patience

No single test confirms PCOS, which is why getting an accurate diagnosis takes several appointments and various assessments.

We start with a detailed discussion of your symptoms, menstrual history, and family health patterns. PCOS often runs in families, so knowing your mother’s or sister’s experiences with similar issues helps guide our evaluation.

The diagnostic process typically includes:

This thorough approach ensures we identify the root cause of your symptoms rather than treating individual problems in isolation.

Treatment focuses on symptoms and goals

PCOS management isn’t one-size-fits-all because women prioritize different aspects of their health and have varying life goals. A teenager worried about acne needs a different treatment than a woman trying to conceive or someone focused on preventing diabetes.

Our treatment approach addresses your immediate concerns while protecting your long-term health.

Hormonal birth control pills 

These medications contain synthetic hormones that regulate your menstrual cycle and reduce testosterone levels. For women with PCOS, birth control pills can restore regular periods, reduce excess hair growth, and clear persistent acne. 

Metformin 

Developed originally for diabetes, this medication enhances how your body uses insulin and can be highly effective in managing PCOS. Metformin helps with weight loss, restores regular ovulation, and reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes (which is more common in women with PCOS). 

Fertility medications 

If you’re trying to conceive, medications like Clomid or letrozole stimulate ovulation by encouraging your ovaries to release eggs regularly. These treatments address the irregular ovulation that makes conception difficult with PCOS. 

We can also coordinate with nutritionists, endocrinologists, and fertility specialists when your situation requires additional expertise.

Take control of PCOS with comprehensive care

At Solace Women’s Care, we recognize that PCOS affects every aspect of your health and well-being. Our team provides personalized treatment plans that address your immediate concerns while protecting your future health.

Our providers work with you to find the right combination of treatments, whether that’s hormonal management, fertility support, or metabolic health optimization. We believe informed patients make better decisions about their care.

Call our Conroe office at 936-441-7100 or message us online to schedule a PCOS evaluation with our experienced team today.

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