PCOS
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a diagnosis that may be given to teens or women who have some or all of the following symptoms:
·     Irregular periods
·     Acne
·     Facial hair
·     Excess body hair
·     Loss of head hair
·     Apple-body shape
·     Overweight and inability to lose weight

For many women with these symptoms, diagnostic tests reveal the high levels of testosterone and low levels of progesterone typical of PCOS. Millions of women have the syndrome but don’t know it. Most alarming, they are unaware of that having PCOS puts them at increased risk for a host of serious conditions.

Long-term health risks associated with PCOS include:
·     Infertility
·     Endometrial cancer
·     Ovarian cysts
·     Diabetes
·     Cardiovascular disease

Diagnosing and treating PCOS is challenging for both patients and health care providers. Many providers overlook PCOS as a possibility, or they simply prescribe birth control pills when menstrual irregularity is a problem. While birth control pills provide relief for some patients, at Ventana Wellness, we provide alternative therapy options that include intensive therapeutic lifestyle changes resulting in weight loss; supplements to improve nutrition, medications to lower testosterone levels, and hormone balancing to regulate menses. Our patients typically see improvements in their skin, decreased facial and body (but not head) hair, weight loss, and mood stabilization. It is not surprising that they also experience greater self-confidence. Perhaps most importantly, their long-term health risks are reduced.

If you've been prescribed birth control pills for irregular periods, or if you have any of the PCOS symptoms listed above, please contact Ventana Wellness today to schedule an appointment. There is no need to suffer the immediate ill effects of PCOS, or to put yourself at risk for more serious illnesses in the long-term.