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Dr. Christine O'Connor, The Gynecology Center at Mercy

Dr. Christine O'Connor Of The Gynecology Center At Mercy Discusses PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) On WBAL-TV11's Woman's Doctor

Polycystic ovarian syndrome, or PCOS, is a condition in women that can cause infertility and unusual hair growth, and there are ways to recognize it and get help.

PCOS is noticeable when a sonogram of an ovary shows up with little dark circles around the edge that are tiny cysts.

Mercy Medical Center gynecologist Dr. Christine O'Connor noted that other symptoms are more obvious, such as the presence of male hormones or androgens.

"They cause hair growth in male patterns, on the face or the body, and irregular periods," she said.

According to Dr. O'Connor, women who are obese are more at risk for PCOS, as well as those who have diabetes or a family history of infertility.

Treatment can include oral contraceptives to make periods more regular; progestin, which is a female hormone; treatment of the excessive hair and diabetes medications.

"If they eat and exercise and lose just 10 percent of their body weight, they can often completely get rid of their symptoms," Dr. O'Connor said. For more information, visit WBAL's WOMAN'S DOCTOR at http://www.wbaltv.com/womansdoctor/19624645/detail.html.