It depends on what symptoms you have. It sounds like you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) rather than simply polycystic ovaries. The symptoms of PCOS are generally caused by two interconnected problems: insulin resistance and overabundance of androgens.
Most women with PCOS are insulin resistant. In fact, insulin resistance is thought to be the most common cause of PCOS. Insulin resistance is a state in which the cells of the body do not respond to insulin as efficiently as they should, so the pancreas produces more and more insulin in an effort to keep blood glucose levels within a normal range. This problem with glucose metabolism and insulin resistance is often what causes weight gain, difficulty losing weight, dark patches of skin (acanthosis nigricans, or AN), high lipid levels, and skin tags--problems often associated with PCOS.
High levels of insulin in the body also affect the ovaries. It's thought that this causes the ovaries to produce too many androgens (male hormones). That's where you get the rest of the most common PCOS symptoms: acne, thinning hair, unwanted body hair growth, irregular or no periods, anovulation.
For many women, metformin is very helpful in treating PCOS. Metformin is an insulin-regulating drug. By treating the high levels of insulin found in many PCOS patients, many symptoms can be alleviated. Some PCOS patients who take metformin even begin ovulating regularly, although metformin is not a fertility drug.
Birth control pills are another common treatment for PCOS. If the woman does not want to get pregnant, birth control pills are a good way to bring about regular periods, and in some women they can help with acne, hair problems, and other symptoms.
For severe body hair growth, some women with PCOS take the drug spironolactone. Some women also need antidepressants, as PCOS can be linked to depression and anxiety.
Lastly, but most importantly, diet and exercise cannot be overlooked. Weight loss is very important for women with PCOS, although for those with insulin resistance it may be difficult. Because of the strong connection to insulin problems, PCOS patients often are advised to follow a low-carb diet. It is important to eat less fat and cholesterol as well, because PCOS can be linked to high lipid levels.
I was diagnosed with PCOS three years ago. I had only 3-4 periods a year, acne, hair growth, thinning hair, AN, and I was overweight. I'm a pretty typical case with all of the classic symptoms. Since then, I've also been diagnosed with insulin resistance, high cholesterol, and high triglycerides. I'm not trying to get pregnant, I just want to be healthier. I take metformin, Crestor, and a birth control pill. I follow a low fat, very low cholesterol, high fiber, vegetarian diet and I try to exercise every day.
2006-06-28 06:00:24
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answer #1
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answered by purplerose 4
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Hello,
I have PCOS with mild symptoms and was prescribed Dianette which was great. There is a time limit on taking this though so I am off it now. I have found the best way to manage this is a good diet and exercise. If you try and keep your weight down it will ease many symptoms.
There are lots of reccomented diet plans out there but I would suggest to keep healthy in a way that suits your lifestyle, cut down on sugar and eat more fruit and veg.
Dianette is known to help with exessive hair growth but also many beauty therapies can help with this.
2006-06-27 04:55:03
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answer #2
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answered by Anonymous
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HI THERE,
I have pcos and the doctor didnt diagnose it properly for me years ago. I have had to put up withe the weight gain etc, but i was told that the pill Dianette was prescribed for us but the Dr didnt prescribe it too me. I hope this helps. If they tell you, that you cant get pregnant then dont listen to them, i fell pregnant three and half years ago, after years of trying.Hope this helps.
2006-06-27 00:43:20
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answer #3
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answered by carol l 1
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how did you find out? did you have an ultrasound? please let me know im super scared and what they do and if i have to get undressed or something and im 15 years old
2016-06-30 13:32:52
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answer #4
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answered by susu 1
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Many women live with them, but yours seem to be a more severe case because of the symptoms you describe. I would consult another doctor. Try a woman gynecologist.
2006-06-27 00:43:38
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answer #5
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answered by browneyedgirl 6
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you need hormone treatment !!i had to have a total hysterectomy through problems with those!
2006-06-27 00:35:32
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answer #6
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answered by hartshorntracy 4
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