Importance of Treating PCOS

PCOS can affect other parts of your body. You can prevent or treat most of these effects before they cause health problems.

Heart disease — If you have obesity or insulin abnormalities from PCOS, you have a greater risk of getting coronary artery disease. This disease means that the vessels that supply the heart with blood are blocked. Losing weight and treating insulin abnormalities can decrease this risk.

Uterine cancer — The hormonal imbalance of PCOS makes the lining of your uterus (endometrium) thicker. This can increase your risk of getting cancer of the uterus. Having regular periods reduces this risk. Your doctor may prescribe birth control pills or drugs with progesterone to help you have regular periods.

Sleep apnea — Women with PCOS say they snore a lot at night and feel tired and sleepy during the day. Having brief periods of time when you stop breathing during sleep is called sleep apnea. A sleep study can tell you if you have sleep apnea. A number of treatments are available to help with this problem.