Welcome to the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) Program located within the Fish Center for Women's Health, a multi-specialty practice at the Mass General Brigham Healthcare Center (Chestnut Hill) at 850 Boylston Street in Chestnut Hill, MA.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a set of symptoms caused by a problem with a woman’s hormones. It affects the small organs that store a woman’s eggs (ovaries). But it can also affect the rest of the body. PCOS is a very common condition in women of childbearing age. In some cases, it can lead to serious health issues if not treated.
Ovulation happens when a mature egg is released from an ovary. This happens so it can be fertilized by a male sperm. If the egg is not fertilized, it is sent out of the body during your period.
In some cases, a woman doesn’t make enough of the hormones needed to ovulate. When ovulation doesn’t happen, the ovaries can develop many small fluid-filled sacs (cysts). These cysts make hormones called androgens. Androgens are a type of male hormone, but women normally have them in smaller amounts. Women with PCOS often have high levels of androgens. This can cause more problems with a woman’s menstrual cycle. And it can cause many of the symptoms of PCOS.
Treatment for PCOS is often done with medicine and life-style changes such as dietary changes. This can’t cure PCOS, but it helps reduce symptoms and prevent some health problems. Learn more about PCOS.
Margo S. Hudson, MD, former Co-director, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Program in the Fish Center for Women’s Health at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, describes causes, symptoms and treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome. Transcript available.
Comprised of an endocrinologist, gynecologist, and dermatologist, our multi-specialty program offers comprehensive evaluation and treatment of the multiple manifestations of PCOS. Our team delivers collaborative and patient-centered care to treat your symptoms of PCOS. We also have onsite nutrition services and connections to the Center for Infertility and Reproductive Surgery at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Following an initial evaluation by one of our physicians, you can expect timely referrals to the appropriate specialist and individualized medical care for this protean syndrome.
The Fish Center for Women’s Health is committed to providing high quality, integrated clinical services and education based on leading-edge research on women’s health and gender specific care. We seek to help and treat all women, and we pay close attention to the areas of disease which have been historically under-diagnosed in women, such as cardiovascular disease and depression. The National Institute of Health estimates that PCOS affects one in every 10 to 15 women. As is our mission, we aim to care for women with PCOS in a coordinated and specialized fashion. The PCOS Program at the Fish Center is yet another way in which the Fish Center is impacting and enhancing women’s health.
Dermatology
Endocrinology
Gynecology
Nutrition
Your physician may refer you to the PCOS Program at the Fish Center if you have:
Depending upon your most pressing concern(s) regarding your PCOS or possible diagnosis, you will be placed with the appropriate specialist. After your initial visit, your PCOS physician will develop an individualized care plan to treat your PCOS, including expedited referral to additional specialists, if necessary.
Ask your primary care physician to make the referral to one of our physicians in the PCOS Program at the Fish Center or request an appointment by contacting our patient coordinator at 617-732-9300, Option 3 . Our patient coordinator will ask you a series of questions about your symptoms so we can better understand your PCOS and find the right physician for you. Our practice is located within the Brigham and Women’s Ambulatory Care Center at 850 Boylston Street in Chestnut Hill.
Brigham and Women's Hospital Health Library
PCOSupport: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Association, Inc.
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