Maurice Leibman, M.D. & Associates

PCOS Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a disorder that affects as many as 7 in 100 women. PCOS has three key features: 1) high levels of hormones called androgens; 2) irregular menstrual periods or lack of periods; and 3) the presence of many fluid filled sacs in the ovaries. Many women with PCOS have other signs and symptoms as well.

The cause of PCOS is not known, but it may be at least partly genetic (passed down through a person's genes). With proper diagnosis, the symptoms of PCOS can be treated successfully. Long-term treatment may be needed to prevent the health risks associated with PCOS.

Core Symptoms of PCOS Include:

PCOS has many different signs and symptoms. Some women may not be aware that seemingly unrelated symptoms are those of PCOS. Common PCOS signs and symptoms include the following:

Irregular menstrual periods
Infertility
Obesity
Excess hair growth
Severe acne
Oily skin
Patches of thickened, velvety, darkened skin called acanthosis nigricans
Multiple fluid-filled sacs in the ovaries

Not all women with PCOS have all of these symptoms. Often women find out they have PCOS when they see a health care professional because of irregular menstrual periods or difficulty becoming pregnant.

What causes PCOS

Although the cause of PCOS is not known, it appears that PCOS may be related to many different factors working together. These factors include insulin resistance, increased androgen levels, and an irregular menstrual cycle.

There is fivefold higher risk of inheriting the genes for PCOS from mothers with PCOS. Genetic studies suggest a causal relationship between PCOS with BMI, insulin resistance, onset of menopause, depression and male-pattern balding. New results suggest that altering the gut microprobe via prebiotics or probiotics, fish oil, and fiber may be a potential treatment option.

For women with PCOS with an elevated BMI, lifestyle modification is the first line of management. Weight loss alone is very helpful in restoring ovulatory function (regular periods), correcting insulin resistance and reducing the risk of diabetes. New weight reduction medications such as Contrave Saxende and Wegovy are the latest to be used with excellent results. Coupled with a meal guide (Mediterranean meal guide, Weight Watchers or equivalent, exercise (150 minutes/week) and/or a consultation with a dietitian are sure ways to get started!

Diagnosing PCOS

The diagnosis of PCOS relies on the history of irregular menstrual periods and elevated androgens, such as testosterone and DHEAs. Often hirsutism, acne, obesity and diabetes are present, but not always. An ultrasound of the ovaries often shows multiple small cysts in one or both ovaries. What is really interesting and important is that often the above symptoms are sometimes present but not always. The spectrum of presentation is really wide with a normal weight woman with relatively few complaints and somewhat irregular periods on the other end.

Up to 40% of hirsute women with regular monthly cycles may not ovulate regularly. Ovulations dysfunction is regarded as periods 735 days apart or less than 8 cycles per year. The most important blood tests to establish a diagnosis are FSH, LH, Testosterone, DHEAs, and AMH. The transvaginal ultrasound should show 20 or more 2 -9 mm follicles on at least one ovary. There is no one accepted definition of PCOS. PCOS is diagnosed when a woman has two of the three key features of PCOS:

1. Increased levels of androgens, either by measuring the levels of androgens in the blood or by noting the presence of unwanted hair growth.

2. Lack of menstrual periods or irregular menstruation

3. Ovaries with many fluid-filled sacs

Accepted Insurances

We accept most major insurances. We verify each patient's insurance plan prior to appointment. If the plan is not on the list, we will verify the network status. Please contact the medical office for all insurance related questions.

Accepted Insurances

We accept most major insurances. We verify each patient's insurance plan prior to appointment. If the plan is not on the list, we will verify the network status. Please contact the medical office for all insurance related questions.
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Our patients say,

  • Excellent service, great staff, amenable and friendly environment. #1

    KG

  • The entire office is Wonderful. Dr. Leibman takes out the necessary time to hear and listen to your concerns and provide a positive feedback and solution. I recently had a procedure done with him and the results and the care he provided was EXCELLENT. Thank you so much for everything.

    Chenell P. submitted 07/28/21

  • "My experience with Michelle has been one of very individual treatment. She developed a process using special Dermavidual products on a daily basis. In a short time people began commenting on how my skin looked many years younger than my chronological age!"

    Patty B.

  • It was my first visit and Dr. Leibman and his team were very supportive and caring for my needs. They all made me comfortable during the consultation. I especially appreciated how Miss. Deana accommodated me from the first contact we had for the appointment. Although it was not a routine check, I will definitely return to Dr. Leibman for my regular checks.

    Catherine U. Submitted 08/13/20

  • I was made happy because my co-pay and the doctor and staff were awesome. Wonderful personality all around.

    R.H., April 7, 21

  • Wonderful experience!

    Damisola F. submitted 08/28/20

  • "I have had problem skin my whole life. I've tried so many products that didn't work. Michelle is very knowledgeable and really customized my skin care. My face has never looked better! I'm very pleased with her work!"

    Nichole D.

  • I called Dr. Leibman's office and Dina answered. I was in horrific pain and she could hear that in my voice. She booked an appointment for me immediately. It was my first time seeing Dr. Leibman. It got BETTER from there. Wow, what a great doctor and staff. Thank you for helping me.

    Christine B. submitted 11/17/20

  • I would like to thank Dr. Leibman for making my procedure so easy. I was relaxed and not troubled and had absolutely no pain or discomfort after the procedure. May all his patients feel the same.

    Rose 3/17/21

  • Dr. Leibman has always been very kind, knowledgeable, and caring. Always knows what's best and treats you very well.

    Hillary N.