Irregular periods, unwanted hair growth, and acne can feel frustrating—especially when you do not know why they are happening. Davie OBGYN can help evaluate whether PCOS is part of the picture and develop a plan around your priorities.
What Is PCOS?
Understanding the hormone connection
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal condition that can affect ovulation, skin, and metabolic health. When ovulation does not happen regularly, periods may be unpredictable or absent.
Despite its name, PCOS does not mean that you must have ovarian cysts.
Common symptoms and red flags
- Irregular or missed periods.
- Acne or increased facial and body hair.
- Thinning hair on the scalp.
- Difficulty becoming pregnant.
- Weight concerns, although PCOS can occur at any body size.
Long gaps between periods should be discussed with a clinician because the uterine lining may need protection. The Office on Women’s Health describes PCOS symptoms and risks.
When to get urgent care: Rapidly developing hair growth, voice changes, or other sudden hormonal symptoms need prompt assessment for other causes.
Why an in-person evaluation matters
There is no single test that diagnoses every case of PCOS. Your clinician considers symptoms, examination findings, and selected tests while checking for conditions that can look similar.
What to Expect During Evaluation
- Review your periods, skin symptoms, medications, and pregnancy plans.
- Check blood pressure and relevant physical findings.
- Consider tests for hormone levels, blood sugar, cholesterol, or other suspected causes.
- Use ultrasound when it would help clarify the picture.
In adults, diagnosis generally requires a combination of findings—not an ultrasound result alone. Adolescent assessment follows different criteria. NICHD explains the main diagnostic features.
A Treatment Plan Built Around Your Goals
Care may include:
- Sustainable nutrition, movement, and sleep support.
- Hormonal contraception or periodic progestin to manage bleeding and protect the uterine lining.
- Treatment for acne or unwanted hair.
- Metformin for selected metabolic concerns.
- Fertility treatment when pregnancy is the goal.
Health improvements can occur even without a large change in weight. Treatment should address your concerns without blame. ACOG reviews PCOS management and long-term care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I have PCOS at a lower weight?
Yes. PCOS occurs across a range of body sizes.
Does an ovarian cyst mean I have PCOS?
No. A separate ovarian cyst is not the same as PCOS.
Can PCOS affect pregnancy?
It may interfere with regular ovulation, but many patients become pregnant with or without treatment.
Is birth control the only treatment?
No. The plan depends on your symptoms, metabolic health, and pregnancy goals.
PCOS Care Close to Home
Davie OBGYN offers board-certified care and on-site ultrasound when needed for patients in Davie, Cooper City, Weston, Plantation, and Pembroke Pines.
For an emergency, call 911. Not sure what you need? See our patient resource center.
Medically reviewed by Rahil Malik, MD, FACOG, board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist. Last reviewed: September 26, 2026. This page is general information and does not replace a visit with your doctor.