PCOS polycystic ovary syndrome — symptoms, treatment, talk to a doctor online

What is pcos?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder causing irregular periods, elevated androgens (testosterone-like hormones), and often insulin resistance. Affects about 10% of women of reproductive age.

Diagnosis based on 2 of 3 Rotterdam criteria: irregular periods, hyperandrogenism (clinical or labs), polycystic ovaries on ultrasound. Treatment depends on your priorities — managing periods, dealing with acne/hair, fertility, weight, or long-term metabolic health.

Do I have pcos? Common signs

If most of these describe what you're experiencing, telehealth may be a good next step:

Irregular or absent periods Acne, often jawline Hirsutism — excess hair on face, chest, back Hair thinning on scalp (male-pattern) Weight gain, especially abdominal Difficulty losing weight Skin changes — acanthosis nigricans (dark velvety patches) Difficulty getting pregnant Mood changes, sometimes depression

Here's how it actually works

Tell us what's going on5-minute online intake covers your symptoms, history, and any photos.

A clinician reviewsLicensed in your state. Reviews your case and asks anything needed.

Rx to your pharmacyIf treatment is appropriate, the prescription goes to the pharmacy you choose.

What causes it

Multifactorial — genetics, insulin resistance, hormone dysregulation. Insulin resistance drives androgen production. About 70% of PCOS patients have some degree of insulin resistance.

Is it contagious?

No.

PCOS isn't one disease — it's a spectrum. Treatment is based on your symptoms and goals, not on lab numbers alone.

Can it be treated online?

PCOS evaluation and ongoing management are well-suited to telehealth. Fertility-specific concerns benefit from reproductive endocrinology. Severe cases or atypical presentations need in-person workup.

How pcos is treated

Combined oral contraceptives regulate periods, reduce acne and hair growth. Metformin for insulin resistance, may help with periods and weight. Spironolactone for acne and hirsutism. GLP-1 agonists increasingly used for weight and metabolic improvement. Inositol supplements have modest evidence. Fertility treatment varies (clomiphene, letrozole, gonadotropins).

Self-care while you wait

Lower-glycemic-load diet — helps insulin resistance
Strength training and aerobic exercise
Weight loss if applicable — 5–10% loss can restore ovulation
Manage stress — affects hormones
Adequate sleep
Inositol supplement (myo + d-chiro)
Vitamin D if deficient
Track symptoms and periods

When to skip telehealth and seek emergency care Severe pelvic pain — possible ovarian torsion or rupture. Heavy menstrual bleeding with dizziness or anemia — urgent.

How long does it last?

Lifelong but symptoms often improve postmenopausally. Active management throughout reproductive years.

Frequently asked questions

Will I be able to have kids?

Most women with PCOS can conceive with appropriate treatment. Letrozole or clomiphene typically induce ovulation.

Is birth control just hiding the problem?

It manages symptoms (acne, hair, irregular periods) but doesn't 'cure' PCOS. After stopping, underlying tendency returns.

Do I need ultrasound for diagnosis?

Not always — irregular periods + hyperandrogenism is enough without ultrasound in adults.

Is keto diet best?

Lower-glycemic-load diets help insulin resistance. Keto can work; Mediterranean or low-carb also work. Sustainability matters most.

Will I get diabetes?

Higher risk — about 50% of PCOS patients develop type 2 diabetes by age 40. Lifestyle and monitoring matter.

This page is for general information only — not a substitute for individual medical advice. A licensed clinician reviews every intake submitted through PrescriberNow before any prescription is issued. If you're experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

PCOS
(polycystic ovary syndrome)