PCOS Specialist
-
- Tweet
Pineland Associates
Theresa R Benecki, MD
Gynecologist located in Brick, NJ
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a woman’s health problem that causes an imbalance in hormone levels and problems with metabolism that may lead to more serious health issues. Getting an early diagnosis and treatment plan in place may prevent or delay health problems related to PCOS. Theresa Benecki, MD, at Pineland Associates in Brick, New Jersey, specializes in diagnosing and treating PCOS. For patient-centered gynecological care, call the office, or book an appointment online today.
PCOS Q & A
What is PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common health problem that affects women of childbearing age. It develops because of an imbalance in reproductive hormones that affect the ovaries.
Your ovaries make and release the eggs (ovulation) that regulate your monthly menstrual cycle. The hormonal imbalance in women with PCOS may affect egg development or stop ovulation.
These abnormalities may cause an irregular menstrual cycle that leads to infertility or the development of ovarian cysts.
Though any woman can develop PCOS, you may be at greater risk if it runs your family.
What are the symptoms of PCOS?
PCOS symptoms usually begin at the start of a woman’s menstrual cycle. However, most women aren’t diagnosed with PCOS until their 20s or 30s when they seek help for infertility.
Signs and symptoms of PCOS include:
- Abnormal bleeding (irregular or prolonged menstrual cycle)
- Fewer than eight periods a year
- Heavy periods
- Excess facial or body hair
- Severe acne
- Hair loss on the scalp
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Dark patches of skin under the breasts, around the neck, or in the groin area
Women with PCOS may also struggle with other health conditions such as high cholesterol, sleep apnea, or high blood pressure.
How is PCOS diagnosed?
There’s no single test for diagnosing PCOS. When you visit Pineland Associates with symptoms that sound like PCOS, Dr. Benecki conducts a comprehensive exam to determine the underlying cause.
She asks detailed questions about your symptoms, menstrual cycle, medical history, gynecological history, and family history, and conducts a physical and pelvic exam.
Dr. Benecki also performs an ultrasound test to look for ovarian cysts and performs a blood test to check your hormone levels.
How is PCOS treated?
Dr. Benecki customizes your PCOS treatment plan based on your primary concerns and symptoms. Your plan may include medication and lifestyle changes.
To regulate your menstrual cycle, Dr. Benecki recommends hormonal contraception such as the birth control pill or hormonal intrauterine device (IUD). For women struggling with infertility, Dr. Benecki prescribes medication to stimulate ovulation, such as clomiphene or letrozole.
Dr. Benecki also recommends you take steps to improve overall health by eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise. These lifestyle changes may reduce your risk of developing PCOS-related health issues like diabetes and heart disease.
Call Pineland Associates, or schedule your PCOS consultation online today.
