Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Program at UTHealth Houston
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormone condition that affects females of reproductive age. It can cause irregular periods, skin and hair changes, cysts on the ovaries, and trouble getting pregnant. PCOS symptoms vary for each person and may include:
- Irregular periods: no periods, frequent or infrequent periods, heavy periods, or unpredictable periods.
- Excess hair growth on the face, chest, stomach, thighs, or back (hirsutism).
- Severe acne or acne that does not go away after adolescence.
- Thinning hair or bald spots.
- Weight gain or trouble losing weight.
- Difficulty getting pregnant.
- Small fluid-filled cysts in the ovaries.
- High levels of the hormone androgen.
- Dark, thick skin patches, known as acanthosis nigricans.
What causes PCOS?
Doctors do not know the exact cause of PCOS. It may be linked to several factors, including insulin resistance, high levels of certain hormones, and irregular menstrual cycles. PCOS cannot be cured, but symptoms can be managed with a healthy diet, exercise, and certain supplements.
Long-term health risks of PCOS
People with PCOS are at higher risk for health problems, making early diagnosis and treatment important. These risks include:
- Type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes.
- High cholesterol.
- Heart disease.
- Metabolic syndrome.
- Uterine lining issues, including endometrial hyperplasia and cancer.
- Sleep apnea.
- Depression and anxiety.
- Sexual health concerns.
Many people with PCOS do not know they have it. In fact, 50% to 75% of cases go undiagnosed. PCOS often runs in families, and many people do not realize they have it until they try to get pregnant.
How is PCOS diagnosed?
PCOS can be difficult to diagnose because there is no single test for it. At UT Physicians Women’s Center, doctors diagnose PCOS when a patient has at least two of these three signs:
- Irregular or missed periods.
- High levels of male hormones (androgens), which may cause acne or extra hair growth.
- Cysts in the ovaries, seen on an ultrasound.
Getting care through the PCOS program
Patients in the PCOS Program can schedule an appointment with an obstetrician/gynecologist (OB-GYN) at a UT Physicians Women’s Center. The doctor will do a full checkup, including:
- A pelvic exam to check for any changes in the ovaries or uterus.
- A blood test to measure hormone levels, blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglycerides.
- A pelvic ultrasound to look at the ovaries and uterine lining.
PCOS treatment plan
If you are diagnosed with PCOS at a UT Physicians Women’s Center, your OB-GYN will refer you to a registered dietitian with experience in PCOS care. Your treatment plan will be personalized to fit your symptoms, health needs, and goals.
- Scheduling your consultation: A dietitian will contact you within 48 hours to set up a video or in-person appointment. Before your visit, they will review your health records and test results.
- During your visit: The dietitian will ask about your symptoms, diet, and exercise habits. They will provide education and help you create a plan to manage PCOS.
Managing PCOS with nutrition
Eating a balanced diet can help manage PCOS symptoms. A good method is the whole-plate approach:
- Half your plate: Vegetables.
- One-fourth: Protein.
- One-fourth: Healthy carbohydrates.
Healthy weight and PCOS
Losing just 5% of your body weight can help improve insulin and hormone levels, making periods more regular. Weight loss may also improve cholesterol, insulin levels, and symptoms like acne and excess hair growth.
Exercise and PCOS
Regular physical activity helps with PCOS.
- High-intensity interval training (HIIT) can reduce insulin resistance, lower body fat, and increase good cholesterol (HDL).
- Vigorous activity can also lower the risk of metabolic syndrome.
- Exercise helps manage stress, anxiety, and depression linked to PCOS.
Supplements for PCOS
Certain vitamins and supplements may help manage symptoms. A dietitian will recommend the best options for you. Common supplements include:
- Inositol: Helps with insulin resistance, hormone levels, and ovulation.
- Omega-3 fish oil
- Vitamin B12
- Vitamin D
- Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
- N-acetylcysteine (NAC)
- Melatonin
Why choose the PCOS program?
The PCOS program provides complete care for both physical and emotional health. Our team works together to support each patient’s unique needs. Doctors, dietitians, and other specialists stay connected and track progress in real time.
