Sasha Pieterse, who stars in “Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists,” wants you to be informed about PCOS. It’s a hormonal disorder that can be tough to diagnose. Pieterse has it, and is sharing her experience with it.
Remind me. What does PCOS stand for?
Polycystic ovary syndrome. It affects 1 in 10 women, including Pieterse. PCOS can be caused by a hormonal imbalance. Sometimes it can come with ovarian cysts, irregular ovulation, or an excess of male hormones like testosterone.
How is PCOS diagnosed?
Diagnosing PCOS typically starts by discussing the symptoms with a doctor. Pieterse had symptoms ranging from weight gain to irregular periods. After that, doctors may perform a blood test, ultrasound, and/or pelvic exam to investigate a potential PCOS diagnosis. It wasn’t that simple for Pieterse, though. She went to 17 different gynecologists before someone recommended that she visit an endocrinologist — a doctor that specializes in glands and the hormones they produce.
Did they help her reach a PCOS diagnosis?
They did. This endocrinologist suggested Pieterse get a blood test to determine if she had polycystic ovary syndrome. It was the first time in five years that Pieterse was on her way to a proper diagnosis.
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PCOS affects almost 5 million women. Once Pieterse was properly diagnosed she was ready to share her story to help others get informed. If you think you’re experiencing symptoms, make an appointment with your doctor.
Updated on Apr. 11 to reflect new information.
This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute a medical opinion, medical advice, or diagnosis or treatment of any particular condition.
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