QuestionHi I'm 18 this year from Singapore. I've had prolonged periods for about 4months and they usually last 2-3weeks,
Ive just done my ultrasound, and the report says : Both ovaries contain numerous immature follicles arranged mainly at the periphery, consistent with polycystic ovaries.
Is there anything I should be worried about? Wil I still be able to conceive in the future?
The doctor said it was due to my sudden weight gain and I should just reduce weight and meanwhile,
Gave me Norerhisteron/sunolut to regulate my periods. Told me to wait for 4months and then go back for a review!
I'm very worried!
AnswerHello Phoebe,
PCO is an ovarian dysfunction that causes the lack of ovulation and a resultant hormone imbalance. If left unattended, there are side effects that can occur including obesity, facial hair growth, male pattern baldness, diabetes, infertility, and others. It needs to be managed correctly. In patients not trying for pregnancy, birth control pills are used to over-ride the ovaries and correct the hormone imbalance. In patients desiring pregnancy, fertility medications are used.
In some cases, patients will return to normal ovulatory function if they reduce their weight to normal weight but this does not always work in all patients. Also, some patients will be found to have elevated insulin levels and treatment with a drug called Metformin (Glucophage) will reduce the insulin and the ovaries will work correctly. To be treated appropriately, you need to see a doctor that knows what they are doing and knowledgeable about PCO. I would recommend that you look up my blog where I have written extensively regarding PCO.
Good Luck,
Dr. Edward J. Ramirez, M.D., FACOG
Executive Medical Director
The Fertility and Gynecology Center
Monterey Bay IVF Program
www.montereybayivf.com
Monterey, California, U.S.A.
for additional information check out my blog at http://womenshealthandfertility.blogspot.com check me out on twitter with me at @montereybayivf and facebook @montereybayivf
