Hormonal Imbalance & Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

At Mowery Women’s Clinic we care about your overall health and well-being. When things internally don’t align, you may feel off – that’s why we pay close attention to hormonal balance. If your hormones are not in balance, it can affect your entire body!

As women go through life there are hormonal changes that occur naturally, like during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause. But, there are also times when your hormones can be imbalanced on a daily basis, which is when you should seek treatment.

What is Hormonal Imbalance?

Hormonal imbalance is when hormone levels in your body are not within standard range. In women, the most common hormone imbalances are thyroid hormones, testosterone, cortisol, estrogen, and progesterone.

The hormones are produced by the endocrine system and are responsible for regulating many of the body’s functions, which means when they’re out of whack, you’re going to feel out of whack!

There are many causes for hormonal imbalance, some which are within your control like stress levels, and some that are not like syndromes or cysts. It’s important to get to the root of the issue so an effective treatment plan can be put into place.

What Are the Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalance?

It may be time to come in for an appointment if you’re experiencing many of the following symptoms associated with hormonal imbalance:

• Drastic changes in weight
• Hot flashes
• Issues sleeping
• Changes in skin appearance like overly dry skin or rashes
• Constant irritability
• Chronic fatigue
• Lack of sex drive
• Bloating or changes in appetite
• A lump on your neck
• Excessive hair growth or loss
• Irregular periods
• Adult acne
• Bowel issues

As hormones control many bodily functions, the symptoms of hormonal imbalance can be varying in nature and severity. If you’re experiencing one or more of these, there is a potential your hormones could be off balance.

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

One disorder that can be caused by hormonal imbalance is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). The hormonal imbalance causes issues with ovulation and can cause infertility and cysts.

This condition affects 1 in 10 women across the world, making it a very common gynecological issue. There is no known cure for PCOS, however doctors can help create a plan to ease discomfort associated with the condition.

How Do You Treat Hormonal Imbalance & PCOS?

In order to treat hormonal imbalances, they’re first diagnosed via blood tests. However, PCOS is a little different. There is no blood test to specifically diagnose PCOS, so after hormonal imbalance tests are completed there will also be an ultrasound done to examine the ovaries for cysts characteristic of PCOS.

Depending on the outcome of the tests, the physician will work with you to determine a customized care plan to help you rid the symptoms and discomfort of hormonal imbalance and PCOS, and hopefully get hormones back to standard levels.

This could mean anything from diet and exercise, to medication to regulate hormones. Each case is different, so each care plan is different.

Make Your Appointment Today

If you’re suffering from any of the symptoms we mentioned above, it doesn’t hurt to make an appointment for a wellness exam. Call us at (800) 223-0845 today and we will get you in as soon as possible!