PCOS Myths

There are a lot of misconceptions about polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can cause confusion for those who have the condition about how to manage their symptoms. "PCOS is a hormone imbalance where your ovaries produce excess hormones called androgens," explained Amy Wetter, M.D., OBGYN at Northside Women’s Specialists, part of Pediatrix® Medical Group. "Due to this hormone imbalance, women will often have missed periods, irregular cycles, unpredictable ovulation and can also have acne, excess hair, obesity, thin hair, cysts on the ovaries and infertility." According to Dr. Wetter, one of the most common myths is that women with PCOS have to be overweight or obese to have a diagnosis or even do a workup for PCOS. "It is important to understand that the underlying mechanism is ovarian hormone dysfunction, which can be present in [both] normal and overweight/obese women."

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