Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in Grand Rapids, MI

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex hormonal condition that affects an estimated 8–13% of women and people assigned female at birth. In Grand Rapids and across West Michigan, PCOS is a common reason for visits to OB/GYNs and endocrinologists at major health systems such as Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, and Mercy Health.

PCOS involves an imbalance of hormones like insulin and androgens (male-type hormones). This imbalance can affect your menstrual cycle, fertility, skin, hair growth, weight, and long‑term health.

What Is PCOS?

Despite the name “polycystic ovary syndrome,” PCOS is primarily a hormonal and metabolic condition, not just an ovarian problem. Some people with PCOS have multiple small follicles (often called “cysts”) on their ovaries, but you can have PCOS without visible cysts on ultrasound.

PCOS tends to run in families. It’s estimated that up to one‑third of women with PCOS have a close female relative (mother, sister, aunt) with the condition. Rates may be higher in some ethnic groups, including South Asian, Middle Eastern, and Hispanic communities, which are also represented in the Grand Rapids area.

Common Symptoms of PCOS

Women with PCOS in Grand Rapids may experience a wide range of symptoms, from very mild to quite severe. Symptoms can also change at different life stages (teens, childbearing years, perimenopause).

Typical PCOS Symptoms

  • Irregular, infrequent, or absent periods
  • Difficulty getting pregnant (reduced fertility)
  • Excess hair growth on the face, chest, stomach, or back (hirsutism)
  • Thinning hair on the scalp or male‑pattern hair loss
  • Acne, especially on the face, chest, or back
  • Oily skin or skin tags
  • Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
  • Darkened, velvety skin patches (often on the neck, underarms, or groin)
  • Mood changes, including stress, anxiety, or depression
  • Fatigue and low energy

Not everyone with PCOS will have all of these symptoms. Some people may only notice irregular periods or mild acne; others may have several symptoms at once.

What Causes PCOS?

PCOS is a hormonal condition, but the exact cause is not fully understood. Several factors are thought to play a role:

1. Genetics and Family History

  • PCOS is likely linked to multiple genes, not just one.
  • Having a mother, sister, or aunt with PCOS increases your risk.

2. Insulin Resistance

About 85% of women with PCOS have insulin resistance. This means:

  • The body’s cells do not respond properly to insulin.
  • Glucose (sugar) has trouble getting into cells.
  • The body makes more insulin to compensate.

High insulin levels can:

  • Stimulate the ovaries to produce more androgens (male‑type hormones).
  • Disrupt normal ovulation and menstrual cycles.
  • Contribute to weight gain and difficulty losing weight.

Insulin resistance can be influenced by:

  • Genetics
  • Lifestyle factors (diet, physical activity)
  • Higher body weight

However, PCOS can affect women of all body sizes. You can have PCOS even if you are not overweight.

3. Hormonal Imbalances

In PCOS, several hormones can be affected:

  • Androgens (male‑type hormones): Often higher than normal, leading to acne, excess hair, and scalp hair thinning.
  • Insulin: Often elevated due to insulin resistance.
  • Reproductive hormones: The balance of hormones that control ovulation is disrupted, leading to irregular periods.

If hormone levels are brought under better control—through lifestyle changes, medication, or both—the ovaries can function more normally, and symptoms often improve.

PCOS, Weight, and Michigan’s Lifestyle

In Michigan, long, cold winters and shorter daylight hours can make it harder to stay active and may contribute to weight gain or seasonal mood changes. A higher body weight can:

  • Increase insulin resistance
  • Raise androgen levels
  • Worsen PCOS symptoms

Even modest weight loss (5–10% of your body weight, if you are above your ideal range) can:

  • Help normalize hormone levels
  • Improve menstrual regularity
  • Increase chances of ovulation and pregnancy
  • Reduce long‑term health risks like type 2 diabetes

Local resources in Grand Rapids—such as nutrition services at Spectrum Health or Trinity Health Grand Rapids, and community programs through the Kent County Health Department and Grand Rapids Public Health—can support healthy eating and physical activity year‑round.

How PCOS Is Diagnosed in Grand Rapids

If you have symptoms of PCOS, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider or OB/GYN. In Grand Rapids, you can seek care through:

  • Spectrum Health Medical Group
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
  • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
  • Mercy Health physician practices
  • Local community and women’s health clinics

What to Expect at Your Visit

Your doctor will:

  • Ask about your menstrual cycle, symptoms, and family history
  • Check your weight, blood pressure, and body mass index (BMI)
  • Examine your skin and hair for signs of excess androgens

Tests for PCOS

You do not need to have ovarian cysts to be diagnosed with PCOS. A diagnosis is usually made if you have two or more of the following:

  1. Irregular or absent periods
  2. Signs of high androgens, such as:
    • Acne, excess facial or body hair, or scalp hair thinning
    • Or high androgen levels on a blood test
  3. Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound, meaning:
    • More than 20 small, underdeveloped follicles on one or both ovaries

Your doctor may order:

  • Blood tests to check:
    • Androgen levels
    • Blood sugar and insulin levels
    • Cholesterol and triglycerides
    • Other hormones to rule out similar conditions
  • Pelvic ultrasound to look at your ovaries
  • Anti‑Müllerian hormone (AMH) blood test as an alternative to ultrasound in some cases

It’s important to work with your medical team to confirm the diagnosis and create a long‑term management plan.

Your PCOS Care Team in Grand Rapids

Because PCOS can affect many parts of your health, you may benefit from a team of healthcare professionals, such as:

  • GP / Primary Care Doctor – coordinates your overall care
  • Endocrinologist – hormone and metabolic specialist
  • Gynecologist / OB‑GYN – menstrual, pelvic, and fertility care
  • Dietitian or Nutritionist – individualized eating plans for insulin resistance and weight management
  • Dermatologist – acne, hair, and skin concerns
  • Exercise Physiologist or Physical Therapist – safe, effective activity plans, especially in winter
  • Fertility Specialist (Reproductive Endocrinologist) – if you’re trying to get pregnant
  • Psychologist, Counselor, or Therapist – support for stress, anxiety, or depression

Many of these specialists practice within large Grand Rapids health systems and community clinics. Ask your primary doctor for referrals within Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, or Mercy Health, depending on your insurance and preferences.

Treatment and Management of PCOS

There is no single “cure” for PCOS, but symptoms can be effectively managed. Early diagnosis and ongoing support can greatly reduce symptoms and lower long‑term health risks.

1. Healthy Lifestyle: The Foundation of PCOS Care

A healthy lifestyle is the most effective first step in managing PCOS symptoms.

Key elements include:

  • Balanced eating pattern

    • Focus on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats
    • Limit sugary drinks, refined carbs, and highly processed foods
    • Consider smaller, regular meals to help manage blood sugar

  • Regular physical activity

    • Aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate‑intensity activity (like brisk walking)
    • Include strength training 2–3 times per week to improve insulin sensitivity
    • In winter, consider indoor options available in Grand Rapids: gyms, community centers, home workouts, mall walking

  • Healthy weight management

    • If you are above your ideal weight, even a small weight loss can improve hormone balance
    • If your weight is in a healthy range, lifestyle changes can still improve insulin resistance and symptoms

  • Avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol

    • Quit smoking and avoid vaping; seek help through local cessation programs
    • Limit alcohol intake, especially sugary mixed drinks

Local support is available through:

  • Kent County Health Department programs
  • Grand Rapids Public Health initiatives
  • Hospital‑based nutrition and wellness programs at Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, and Mercy Health

2. Medications for PCOS

Your doctor may recommend one or more medicines depending on your symptoms and goals (such as cycle control, fertility, or skin concerns).

Common options include:

  • Hormonal contraception (pill, patch, ring, some IUDs)

    • Regulates periods
    • Reduces menstrual pain
    • Lowers androgen levels, helping with acne and excess hair

  • Metformin

    • Improves insulin sensitivity
    • May help regulate periods
    • Can support weight management when combined with lifestyle changes

  • Other medicines for skin and hair symptoms

    • Anti‑androgen medications (prescribed under specialist supervision)
    • Acne treatments (topical creams, oral medications)
    • Hair removal options (prescription creams, laser hair removal, electrolysis—often offered by dermatology clinics in Grand Rapids)

3. Fertility Support

Some women with PCOS may need medicine or procedures to help with fertility. Options can include:

  • Ovulation‑inducing medications
  • Injectable hormones under specialist care
  • Intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF)

Fertility services are available through reproductive medicine centers in the Grand Rapids area. Your OB/GYN or endocrinologist can refer you to a local fertility specialist.

Emotional Health and PCOS

PCOS can increase the risk of:

  • Stress and burnout
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Body image concerns

Taking care of your emotional health is just as important as managing physical symptoms.

Helpful strategies:

  • Regular physical activity (also supports mood, especially during dark Michigan winters)
  • Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or mindfulness
  • Support groups (in‑person or online) for women with PCOS
  • Counseling or therapy with a psychologist, social worker, or licensed counselor

In Grand Rapids, mental health support is available through:

  • Hospital‑based behavioral health services
  • Private counseling practices
  • Community mental health programs

Ask your doctor for recommendations that match your insurance and needs.

Long‑Term Health Risks of PCOS

Without proper management, PCOS can increase the risk of several long‑term health issues:

  • Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • High cholesterol and triglycerides
  • Cardiovascular disease (heart disease, stroke)
  • Sleep apnea (especially in those with higher body weight)
  • Endometrial (uterine) cancer due to long‑term irregular or absent periods

You can reduce these risks with:

  • A healthy lifestyle (nutrition, activity, weight management)
  • Regular health checks, including:
    • Blood pressure
    • Blood glucose or A1c
    • Cholesterol levels
  • Medications when needed (for blood pressure, cholesterol, or blood sugar)
  • Ensuring you have regular periods, either naturally or with medical support

Your primary care provider in Grand Rapids can help set up a schedule for regular screening tests and follow‑up.

Where to Get Help for PCOS in Grand Rapids, MI

If you think you might have PCOS or have already been diagnosed, consider reaching out to:

  • Primary Care Provider (GP / Family Doctor)
  • OB/GYN or Gynecologist
  • Endocrinologist
  • Registered Dietitian
  • Dermatologist
  • Exercise Physiologist or Physical Therapist
  • Fertility Specialist
  • Psychologist or Counselor

You can find these professionals through:

  • Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, and Mercy Health systems
  • Local women’s health and community health centers
  • Kent County Health Department and Grand Rapids Public Health resources and referral lists

Key Points About PCOS in Grand Rapids

  • PCOS is a common hormonal condition that can affect periods, fertility, skin, hair, weight, and long‑term health.
  • Symptoms vary widely and can change over time; not everyone with PCOS has the same experience.
  • Insulin resistance and higher androgen levels play a major role in PCOS.
  • A healthy lifestyle—especially important during Michigan’s long winters—is the foundation of PCOS management.
  • Medications such as hormonal contraception and Metformin, plus targeted treatments for skin, hair, and fertility, can greatly improve symptoms.
  • Early diagnosis and ongoing support from a healthcare team in Grand Rapids can reduce symptoms and lower the risk of long‑term complications like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

If you live in the Grand Rapids area and recognize these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss evaluation and treatment options tailored to you.