Your Care Instructions

Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, means a woman’s hormones are out of balance. It can cause problems with your periods and make it hard to get pregnant.

Doctors don’t know for sure what causes PCOS, but it seems to run in families. It also seems to be linked to obesity and a risk for diabetes. If you have PCOS, your sisters and daughters have a higher chance of getting it too.

You may have other symptoms. These include weight gain, acne, too much hair growth on the face or body, high blood pressure, and high blood sugar. Your ovaries may have cysts on them. These cysts are growths filled with fluid.

Keep in mind that although you may not have regular periods, you can still get pregnant. Talk to your doctor about birth control if you do not want to get pregnant. Sometimes the hormone changes with PCOS can also make it hard for women pregnant. this talk to your treatment for this problem.

Women who have PCOS can go for months or longer with no period. Your doctor may recommend medicines that can help get your cycles back to normal.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It’s also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home if you have PCOS?

• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
• Eat a healthy diet. Include fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains in your diet each day.
• If you are overweight, losing weight can help with many of the symptoms of PCOS. Talk to your doctor about safe ways to lose weight.
• Get at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days of the week. Walking is a good choice. Or you can run, swim, cycle, or play tennis or team sports.
• For hair growth you don’t want, try bleaching, plucking, electrolysis, or laser therapy.
• Acne can be treated with over-the-counter medicines. Look for ones that have benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid in them.

When should you call for help?

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You have severe vaginal bleeding. This means that you are soaking through your usual pads or tampons each hour for 2 or more hours.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You have more vaginal bleeding, or bleeding is more irregular.