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Adolescent Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Clinic
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition in which females have an imbalance of reproductive hormones. At Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, we have the largest PCOS clinic for teenagers in the Western United States.
We use a comprehensive, personalized approach to care. Whether your child could benefit from medication, diet changes or mental health support, our experts can help.
Adolescent PCOS Clinic: Why Choose Us
Families who choose the Adolescent PCOS Clinic are choosing:
- Collaborative care: Our clinic is part of a national group of institutions that collects research about PCOS in adolescents and teenagers. Having access to this data helps us monitor outcomes better and improve the treatments we can offer your child.
- Personalized treatment: We work with each teenager and family to form individualized care plans. For example, you may want to avoid oral contraceptives while your child is young. We have the expertise to find other treatment approaches, such as collaborating with dietitians or other experts in our Healthy Weight Clinic.
- Extra resources and support: Many adolescents with PCOS deal with bullying, depression or anxiety. We screen for mental health challenges and provide referrals for mental health experts as needed.
What Is Teenage PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal imbalance. Typically, it occurs when females have excessive androgens (male hormones), such as testosterone. Young people with PCOS have higher than usual androgen levels.
PCOS can cause females to have irregular periods, heavy periods or no period at all. Young people may also have:
- Acne that does not improve with standard treatments
- Excessive hair growth on the face, chest, back or other unwanted areas
- Hair thinning on the head
- Increased risk for Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol
- Weight gain or difficulty managing weight
Treatment for PCOS in Teens
Our specialists provide comprehensive care for teenagers with PCOS. We may use medications to regulate hormones. We also collaborate with dietitians or other specialists to write personalized nutrition or exercise plans.
Your child may benefit from working with a mental health expert. These specialists ensure that teenagers are mentally and emotionally healthy, in addition to physically healthy. Find out more about polycystic ovary syndrome treatment.