Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is common among women who are of reproductive age. This hormonal disorder doesn’t have a known cause. Early detection can reduce the risk of complications like heart disease or type 2 diabetes.

What Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?

This condition is a hormonal imbalance that affects the ovaries. Women with PCOS will produce an egg during her normal menstrual cycle. However, the condition may cause the egg to incorrectly develop or may prevent it from being released during ovulation. It can cause female infertility as well as the development of cysts.

Symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

The symptoms of PCOS are focused around the menstrual period. It usually appears during a woman’s first period but can also show up later in life after significant weight gain. Common signs of PCOS include:

• Excessive Androgen Production – An increase in male hormone production can cause excess body and facial hair growth, severe acne, and male-pattern baldness.
• Irregular Periods – PCOS can cause irregular periods that can be prolonged or infrequent.
• Polycystic Ovaries – PCOS can cause enlarged ovaries with follicles that surround eggs.

Treating Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

It is important to get the advice of an OB/GYN if you notice changes in your menstrual cycle or other symptoms. Only a professional can provide an accurate diagnosis. A lifestyle change with a healthy diet and exercise may be recommended. You may also be prescribed medications like birth control pills or progestin therapy.

If you have questions about polycystic ovary syndrome or other reproduction conditions, let us know. Contact Women’s Health today to schedule a gynecological appointment.

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Dysmenorrhea is the medical term used to describe painful cramps during menstruation. These are caused by uterine contractions. As the uterus tightens, it can press on nearby blood vessels and cut off the oxygen supply to muscle tissue. This causes the discomfort some women experience.

Two Types of Dysmenorrhea

There are two types of dysmenorrhea. The first is called primary dysmenorrhea and includes common menstrual cramps.  The other is secondary dysmenorrhea. This is the result of a disorder in the reproductive organs. It can be caused by several different conditions, including:

• Benign tumors (fibroids) – Growths found along uterus’ inner wall
• Pelvic inflammatory disease – Bacterial infection in the uterus that can spread
• Cervical stenosis – narrowing of the uterine opening
• Adenomyosis – Occurs when uterine lining grows into muscle
• Endometriosis – Tissue that lines the uterus is found outside of it

Reducing Menstrual Cramps

If you experience secondary dysmenorrhea, you should talk to your gynecologist about treatment options. For women with primary dysmenorrhea, you can try the following methods to help reduce pain and discomfort.

• Rest as needed during your period
• Avoid salt and caffeine
• Avoid alcohol and tobacco
• Massage your abdomen and lower back
• Start exercising regularly (ask your doctor before beginning an exercise program)

You can also take an over-the-counter pain reliever. If these methods do not help, talk to your gynecologist about additional options. You may be prescribed a higher dose of Ibuprofen or a similar pain reliever. Some women take oral contraceptives to help manage menstrual pain.

Make an appointment with Women’s Health in West Bloomfield if you have period discomfort to ensure that you aren’t experiencing the effects of an underlying health condition.

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