Does PCOS change over time?

[dana]

Hi Dr. Shana,

I am fairly young and have been diagnosed with PCOS. It seems like I am spending a lot of time planning for my future right now and it has got me thinking... What should I expect as I grow older? age 40? 50? 60? etc? Will things be different when I reach menopause? Do I have an increased chance for some diseases?

Any help would be nice.

[drshana]

Hi Dr. Shana,

I am fairly young and have been diagnosed with PCOS. It seems like I am spending a lot of time planning for my future right now and it has got me thinking... What should I expect as I grow older? age 40? 50? 60? etc? Will things be different when I reach menopause? Do I have an increased chance for some diseases?

Any help would be nice.


Hello Dana,

For many women with PCOS, many of their symptoms like excess hair growth, hair loss, and weight gain continue. For other women, some of their PCOS symptoms improve post-menopause.

What is certain is that the complications of PCOS become more prevalent after menopause. In other words, diabetes and cardiovascular disorders are of more concern with the post-menopausal PCOS population.

The underlying cause of PCOS is usually insulin resistance, which is responsible for weight gain, hormonal imbalances, and serious complications of PCOS (such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease). These diseases can be prevented through dietary and lifestyle changes and the implementation of the appropriate nutritional and herbal supplementation.

I hope this answers your question, Dana and thanks for writing in! :)