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Emmy award-winning reporter John Biffar, hosts the local medical series Health Matters which airs on NBC2 News Today weekday mornings between 5-5:30 a.m. and during NBC2 News at 4:00 p.m.
 
 
 

      

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
March 4, 2009

Hormones. They are a part of our everyday life. But when hormone levels get out of wack, it can wreak havoc on a woman’s body, both mentally and physically. Things such as irregular periods, acne, unexpected weight gain, excessive body hair, all could be warning signs of polycystic ovary syndrome.

Dr. Paul Joslyn is an OB-GYN on the medical staff of Lee Memorial Health System and says, “It’s the most common endocrinological or hormonal imbalance in young women, affecting 6-8 percent of women. Its marked by not ovulating properly and signs of too much male hormones.” PCOS, as its called, is also the leading cause of infertility.

Dr. Joslyn says keeping a close eye on your moods, your body’s monthly cycle, as well as maintaining a healthy diet and plenty of exercise can help in the mangement process. “

About 50 percent of women are overweight. If you lose 5 to 10 percent of your body weight, a lot of times ovary function will return. Periods will become normal. If that doesn’t work, a woman who isn’t interested in getting pregnant can use birth control. If she is interested in getting pregnant, there are drugs such as chlomaphene citrate, that will get 50 to 70 percent of people to ovulate,” says Joslyn.

It’s important that you see your doctor if you are experiencing discomfort, severe mood swings, or unusual changes in your body’s appearance.