September is PCOS Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women. Despite its prevalence, PCOS remains underdiagnosed and misunderstood, often leaving women struggling with symptoms without answers. UNC Fertility is committed to shedding light on PCOS, supporting those affected, and empowering women with the knowledge and resources they need.
What is PCOS?
PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. It occurs when a woman’s ovaries or adrenal glands produce higher-than-normal amounts of male hormones, particularly androgens. This hormonal imbalance can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:
- Irregular periods or no periods at all
- Ovarian cysts
- Acne or oily skin
- Excessive hair growth (hirsutism) on the face, chest, or back
- Thinning hair or hair loss from the scalp
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Difficulty with fertility
While the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, research suggests it may be related to factors like insulin resistance, inflammation, and genetics. Many women with PCOS also experience metabolic issues which can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in managing PCOS and preventing long-term complications, which can include infertility, diabetes, heart disease, and endometrial cancer. However, because the symptoms of PCOS can vary greatly from woman to woman, it can often go undiagnosed for years. Many women experience the frustration of being misdiagnosed or not taken seriously, which is why raising awareness is so important.
At UNC Fertility, we prioritize individualized care and work with patients to understand their symptoms, provide accurate diagnosis, and create tailored treatment plans.
How We Can Help
If you suspect that you or someone you know may have PCOS, seeking professional guidance is key. UNC Fertility offers a comprehensive range of services to help women with PCOS manage their symptoms and improve their fertility. Our team of reproductive endocrinologists, dietitians, and nurses are experienced in diagnosing and treating PCOS with a combination of lifestyle modifications, medications, and fertility treatments.
Some of the ways we support women with PCOS include:
- Medications to regulate menstrual cycles and improve fertility.
- Ovulation induction treatments for those struggling with infertility.
- In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) for women who require advanced fertility treatments.
How You Can Support Women with PCOS this Month:
- Spread the Word: Share facts about PCOS with friends, family, and on social media to help educate others. The more we talk about PCOS, the less isolated women will feel, and the more likely they will be to seek help.
- Advocate for Yourself: If you’re experiencing symptoms of PCOS, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional. You deserve to feel heard and to receive the care you need.
- Participate in Local and National Events: Organizations across the country host events and webinars to raise awareness and funds for PCOS research and support. Getting involved can make a huge difference.
- Wear Teal: Teal is the official color of PCOS awareness. Wearing teal can be a small but impactful way to show solidarity with those living with the condition.
If you or someone you love is living with PCOS, know that you’re not alone. We are here to support you on your journey to better health and fertility. To learn more about how we can help you manage PCOS and improve your fertility, contact UNC Fertility today.