PCOS: Health expert shares impact and importance of awareness

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- September is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Awareness Month. PCOS is a hormonal disorder that health experts say is not widely talked about but has major impacts.

"As we kind of start this conversation out, it's really important to catch it because of the multi-organ impact of PCOS and that hormonal imbalance," said Dr. Charles Chung, OBGYN with Ascension Health.

PCOS impacts one in 10 women of childbearing age and doctors say raising awareness is key.

"It's a hormonal imbalance that is impacting the ability of one's ovaries to release an egg regularly," said Dr. Chung.

Some of the common symptoms that doctors look for when diagnosing are irregular menstrual cycles, higher testosterone levels, and polycystic ovaries visible on an ultrasound. "You only need any two of the three to clinch that PCOS diagnosis," Dr. Chung says. A PCOS diagnosis could also be an indicator of other serious health risks that need attention.

PCOS is the leading cause of infertility and can cause other serious health problems including obesity, type two diabetes, cardiovascular disease and endometrial cancer.

Since PCOS impacts hormones, it can also have major effects on someone's mental health.

Once diagnosed, many doctors will suggest lifestyle changes like diet and exercise to manage the obesity risks. "Not every patient has an obese BMI but if that is the case, even a five percent weight loss towards your target weight can help reregulate your body naturally," said Chung.

Hormone-based treatment medications may also be recommended. Those who are experiencing any of the symptoms are encouraged to talk to their health provider about a potential diagnosis.