THE TEA | December 2025
PCOS 101: Understanding the Hidden Hormonal Disorder
By Sabrina Doffing, MD
I’m Dr. Sabrina Doffing, one of the newest OB/GYNs at Baptist Health Women’s Clinic-North Little Rock. I’m passionate about providing women with exceptional, personalized care and empowering them on their wellness journeys.
One condition I frequently diagnose and treat is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, or PCOS. This condition impacts an estimated 1 in 10 women, yet it remains widely misunderstood and often underdiagnosed.
Let’s break down what PCOS really is, what causes it, and how it can be managed to help women take charge of their health and well-being.
What Is PCOS?
PCOS is a common hormonal disorder that affects how a woman’s ovaries function. It can influence menstrual cycles, fertility, hormone levels, and overall metabolism. As these basic bodily functions are compromised, PCOS manifests in a wide range of symptoms.
What Are the Symptoms of PCOS?
PCOS can result in an array of different symptoms, and not every woman with PCOS will experience all of them. In fact, some women with mild PCOS may not experience symptoms at all.
Common symptoms include:
- Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
- Excess hair growth on the face or body (hirsutism)
- Persistent acne
- Thinning hair or hair loss on the scalp
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Darkened patches of skin, especially around the neck or underarms (acanthosis nigricans)
- Fertility challenges
What Causes PCOS?
There’s no single known cause of PCOS, but there are a few genetic and hormonal factors linked to the condition:
- Insulin resistance – When the body doesn’t use insulin effectively, it compensates by producing more. This excess insulin can stimulate the ovaries to make more androgens (male hormones), which disrupt normal ovulation.
- Elevated androgens – These “male” hormones, though present in all women, can become excessive in PCOS, leading to acne, hair growth, and hair loss.
- Genetics – PCOS often runs in families. Having a mother or sister with the condition raises your risk.
How Is PCOS Diagnosed?
There’s no single test for PCOS. Instead, we look at a combination of symptoms, exams, tests, and imaging to make a PCOS diagnosis. This can include:
- Irregular or absent ovulation
- Elevated androgen levels (in bloodwork or by symptoms)
- Multiple small follicle cysts are visible on the ultrasound of the ovaries.
If two of these three criteria are met, a diagnosis of PCOS is typically made after ruling out other possible causes, like thyroid issues or elevated prolactin levels.
What are the risks of PCOS?
Untreated PCOS can increase the risk of:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Cardiovascular disease
- Endometrial (uterine) cancer due to prolonged lack of periods
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes and high blood pressure
How Is PCOS Managed?
There is no cure for PCOS, but it can be successfully managed through a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and ongoing care.
A balanced lifestyle plays a key role in managing PCOS. Focusing on nutrient-dense foods can help stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce insulin resistance. These foods can include whole grains, lean proteins, and plenty of high-fiber vegetables. Pairing healthy eating with regular exercise also improves how the body uses insulin and supports weight management. For women with PCOS, even a modest, sustainable weight loss can make a meaningful difference in symptoms.
Medication can also play a major role in restoring hormonal balance and improving symptoms. For women who are not trying to conceive, birth control pills are often prescribed to regulate menstrual cycles, reduce acne, and protect the uterus from the buildup that can occur when periods are irregular. This is one of the most effective ways to help balance hormones and maintain a healthy cycle. Metformin, a medication originally developed for diabetes, can also be used to improve insulin resistance and may even promote more regular ovulation. For women hoping to become pregnant, fertility medications such as Letrozole or Clomiphene can help stimulate ovulation, increasing the chances of conception by encouraging the ovaries to release an egg.
What Are Some Common Myths About PCOS?
Myth 1: PCOS only affects overweight women.
While being overweight or obese is a common symptom, thin women can also have PCOS.
Myth 2: You can’t get pregnant with PCOS.
Many women with PCOS conceive naturally or with simple fertility treatments.
Myth 3: PCOS will go away on its own.
The condition can be managed, but not cured. Ongoing care is key to living a healthy, happy life and preventing long-term complications.
Should I Get Checked for PCOS?
If your periods are irregular, you’re struggling with acne or unwanted hair growth, or you’ve been trying to conceive without success, it’s time to talk with a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and management can prevent complications and improve quality of life.
What Provider Should I See for PCOS?
PCOS is primarily managed by an OB/GYN. If you’d like to make an appointment, we’d love to see you at Baptist Health Women’s Clinic-North Little Rock, or at any of our other women’s clinics in the Baptist Health system.
If you experience other medical issues related to PCOS, your OB/GYN will refer you to a specialist to address your needs. For example, if you develop type 2 diabetes, you’ll be referred to an endocrinologist.
Living Well with PCOS
PCOS may be complex, but a little understanding can go a long way to living a productive life with the condition. With the right tools and the right provider, women with PCOS can be empowered on their wellness journey. We may not know exactly why so many women have PCOS, but we do know they can thrive with the support they need.
About the Author
Sabrina Doffing, MD
Dedicated and compassionate OB/GYN providing comprehensive obstetric and gynecological care. Skilled in managing prenatal, labor, and postnatal care, as well as diagnosing and treating a broad range of gynecological conditions. Known for delivering patient-centered care with a strong focus on preventative health, reproductive wellness, and minimally invasive procedures. Proven ability to build trusting relationships with patients and collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary healthcare teams.