Tulane Women's Services clinic provides care for patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a genetic, hormone, metabolic and reproductive disorder that affects women and girls. It is a leading cause of female infertility and a precursor for other serious conditions including obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and endometrial cancer.

“Typical symptoms of PCOS include irregular periods, often skipping periods, and then having heavy periods when you do get them, signs of increased testosterone like acne, hair loss from the scalp, excessive hair growth everywhere else on the body, signs of increased insulin, or insulin resistance, which includes symptoms such as darkening of the skin, or weight gain or difficulty losing weight,” said Pratibha Rayapati, MD, assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Tulane University School of Medicine.

Rayapati says some people with PCOS may not have severe symptoms, but they’re still at risk for related diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and cancer. While there’s not a cure for the disorder, patients can find relief with the help of their physicians.

“We know a lot more about PCOS than we did in the past,” Rayapati said. “We understand more about the complex interplay of the hormones involved. In terms of insulin resistance and weight loss, we have a better understanding of what goes into that, and there are newer medications available to help people who really struggle with their weight.”

To make an appointment with Dr. Rayapati, contact Tulane Women’s Services at (504) 988-2160.