PCOS Symptoms & Treatment: How to Overcome Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

What Is PCOS?

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects people with ovaries, often during reproductive years. It’s caused by imbalanced hormone levels that lead to the development of cysts on the ovaries and can interfere with ovulation.

Common PCOS Symptoms:

• Irregular or missed periods
• Acne or oily skin
• Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism)
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Infertility
• Thinning hair or hair loss
• Mood swings or depression

While not usually painful, PCOS is a chronic condition that can impact your long-term health—including your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and endometrial cancer.

Treatment Options for PCOS

There’s no cure for PCOS, but the condition can be managed with personalized medical treatment and lifestyle changes. Your treatment plan will depend on your symptoms and health goals.

If Your Goal Is to Regulate Your Period:

• Birth control pills (containing estrogen and progestin)
• Progestin-only therapy

These medications can help restore a regular menstrual cycle, reduce acne, and slow excess hair growth.

If You're Trying to Get Pregnant:

• Ovulation-inducing medications, such as:
  • Clomiphene
  • Letrozole (Femara)
  • Metformin (also used to manage insulin levels)
  • Gonadotropins (injectable hormones)

These can improve fertility and help regulate ovulation.

If You're Managing Hair Growth or Acne:

• Hormonal birth control pills
• Spironolactone (Aldactone) – blocks androgen hormones
• Eflornithine (Vaniqa) – slows facial hair growth

Talk to your healthcare provider about the right combination for your needs.

Lifestyle Changes to Help Manage PCOS

Medication is only part of a successful PCOS management plan. Lifestyle adjustments play a huge role in controlling symptoms and reducing long-term health risks.

Weight Management

Even a small amount of weight loss (5–10%) can help:

• Restore ovulation
• Improve insulin sensitivity
• Reduce testosterone levels
• Lower inflammation

PCOS-Friendly Diet

• Choose high-fiber foods (leafy greens, whole grains, legumes)
• Eat lean proteins (chicken, fish, tofu)
• Focus on anti-inflammatory foods (berries, avocados, olive oil)
• Limit sugar, processed carbs, and red meat

Exercise Regularly

Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week. Cardio and strength training both support hormone balance and insulin sensitivity.

Support Mental Health

PCOS can affect mood and self-esteem. Consider:

• Yoga or meditation
• Counseling or therapy
• Journaling or joining a PCOS support group

Prioritizing your mental health is just as important as treating physical symptoms.

Get Help from BASS Medical Group

If you think you may have PCOS—or need support managing your symptoms—BASS Medical Group is here to help. Our women’s health specialists offer compassionate, expert care tailored to your individual needs.

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