Be alert to symptoms of ovary problems that can lower fertility

One of the most common causes of female infertility is a hormonal disorder of the ovaries that is difficult to diagnose because of its wide range of symptoms.

“There are many ways to restore fertility in polycystic ovarian syndrome,” says Dr. Bruce Carr, an obstetrician/gynecologist at UT Southwestern Medical Center who specializes in hormonal disorders in women. “The primary step is getting an accurate diagnosis.”

PCOS symptoms may include weight gain, severe acne, irregular menstrual cycles, and excess hair on chest, face and legs. Overweight women with PCOS are also at risk of diabetes.

Diagnosis of the disorder is obtained by menstrual history and physical manifestations and, if required, by ultrasound of the ovaries, measurement of hormone levels and other tests. Fertility treatments can range from hormones to in vitro fertilization.

Visit http://www.utsouthwestern.org/obgyn to learn more about UT Southwestern’s clinical services in gynecology and obstetrics.

Media Contact: Aline McKenzie