What is PCOS (also called ovarian hyperandrogenism)?
It is one of the most common conditions that affects females who have started getting periods.
It can cause irregular periods, severe acne and extra body hair on the face, chest, back and abdomen.
Children with PCOS have higher than average levels of androgen hormones.
People with PCOS have a higher risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease and infertility.
How do we get an appointment?
After a referral is made, our team will call your family to schedule an appointment.
PCOS Clinic meets once a month.
What should we expect at clinic visits?
Families will meet with the PCOS team.
At the first visit, your child will give some blood for tests. The blood tests will:
Measure your child’s androgen hormone levels.
Rule out other disorders that have some of the same symptoms as PCOS.
See if they have other symptoms that often happen with PCOS. This could include type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol.
During follow-up visits, the providers will make sure the treatment is working well for your child. They may also order blood tests to watch for other problems that can happen with PCOS.
How is it treated?
After the team meets with your child, we will decide on a treatment plan. This may include:
Lifestyle changes, such as healthy eating choices and healthy movement. Dietitians can meet with families after the first appointment.
Oral contraceptive pills or birth control pills
Implanted birth control methods, such as Nexplanon or an intrauterine device (IUD)
A medicine called spironolactone is sometimes used to improve acne and slow hair growth.
The choice will depend on your family’s preference and your child’s past health problems.
