OFHC is a Leader in Women’s Health: Understanding and Managing PCOS
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common — and frequently misunderstood — hormonal conditions affecting women and people assigned female at birth. At Orléans Family Health Clinic (OFHC), we are proud to offer comprehensive, connected, and compassionate care for those dealing with PCOS and its many symptoms.
Recognizing Common PCOS Symptoms
PCOS affects each person differently, but knowing the signs can help you get the care you need. Talk to your family doctor at OFHC if you’re experiencing:
- Irregular periods
- Excess body hair (hirsutism), especially on the face, chest, arms or abdomen
- Hair thinning or loss (often from the scalp)
- Acne and oily skin
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
These symptoms stem from hormonal imbalances — often involving excess androgens (male hormones) — and can significantly affect a person’s quality of life. If you do not have a family doctor, check here for information on how to find family doctors accepting new patients.
How Is PCOS Diagnosed and Managed?
There’s no single test to confirm PCOS. Your doctor may:
- Order bloodwork to check hormone levels
- Request an ultrasound to examine your ovaries
PCOS differs from ovarian cysts. While ovarian cysts are usually painful fluid-filled sacs, polycystic ovaries are enlarged with multiple small follicles visible on imaging.
If PCOS is confirmed, your doctor will likely monitor cholesterol and glucose levels, since those with PCOS are at increased risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Lifestyle & Medical Management of PCOS
While there’s no cure yet, research and clinical guidance strongly support individualized treatment plans that include:
- Healthy Eating
- Regular Exercise (especially strength training)
- Consistent Sleep (at least 7 hours/night)
- Stress Reduction (mindfulness, hobbies, deep breathing)
- Medical Treatment (as needed to regulate hormones and cycles)
At OFHC, our interdisciplinary team can support you through each step — from diagnosis to long-term management — with access to both family doctors and in-house allied health professionals.
A New Era of PCOS Research and Advocacy
PCOS is finally getting the attention it deserves. The International PCOS Guideline emphasized a tailored approach to care, combining lifestyle changes with medical support.
In Canada, the University of Calgary’s EMBRACE research lab (Endocrine, Metabolic and Reproductive Advancements) is leading efforts to explore reproductive disorders such as PCOS across a woman’s lifespan.
Dr. Jamie Benham and her team are engaging directly with patients through surveys and focus groups to co-design practical PCOS management tools — ensuring that research translates directly into better care.
Meanwhile, Alberta’s new PCOS clinical pathway offers a powerful template that could help improve PCOS diagnosis and treatment across the country.
Why PCOS Awareness Matters
OFHC supports the growing PCOS advocacy movement. Local and international initiatives such as PCOS Together, Verity PCOS (UK), and Ask PCOS (Australia) are proving that collective efforts can improve detection, research, and treatment outcomes.
By improving awareness and prioritizing women’s health, we can not only ease suffering — we can save lives.
If you or someone you love may be struggling with PCOS, reach out to us at Orléans Family Health Clinic. Together, we’ll find a way forward.
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Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.
