< Back to the Blog
PCOS

PCOS Treatments: Helping the Whole Person, Not Just Their Symptoms

Elinor Hills
Elinor Hills

While there's no cure for PCOS, there are various PCOS treatments, from lifestyle changes and supplements to medication and assistive reproductive technology.

No items found.
Modified On:
Published:
Jan 31, 2023
Est. Read Time:
0
Published:
Jul 1, 2025
Est. Read Time:
0

While there's no cure for PCOS, there are various PCOS treatments, from lifestyle changes and supplements to medication and assistive reproductive technology.

PCOS
Share to:

While there's no cure for PCOS, there are various PCOS treatments, from lifestyle changes and supplements to medication and assistive reproductive technology.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that causes hormonal imbalances that can affect ovarian function and therefore fertility. While there is no cure for this condition, there are various PCOS treatment options that can help manage symptoms and improve your reproductive health. We spoke with Dr. Tara Brandner, DNP, FNP-C, doctorate nurse practitioner, and fertility coach, to get insights on PCOS treatments. Dr. Brandner works with her clients to help them regain control of their stories and accomplish their health goals. The Oova team asked her to share some of what she has learned while working with patients navigating PCOS.

She covered:

PCOS overview

First: what is polycystic ovarian syndrome?

PCOS is a condition that can affect anyone with ovaries. It causes hormonal imbalances that can affect ovarian function. Common characteristics of the condition include menstrual cycle irregularities, high levels of androgen (a hormone more abundant in biological males), and polycystic ovaries.

>>MORE: Irregular Cycle? A Standard Fertility Test Isn't Going to Cut It — Here's Why

There are four types of PCOS, with insulin resistance being the most common. Insulin resistance occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin, leading to an increase in blood sugar levels. The other three types of PCOS are known as Adrenal PCOS, Inflammatory PCOS, and Post-Pill PCOS.

Each type of PCOS has unique symptoms and treatment approaches, so it's essential to work with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for the type of PCOS that you have.

How is PCOS diagnosed?

Providers follow several criteria to diagnose PCOS, and the most common ones are the Rotterdam criteria and the Androgen Excess and PCOS Society (AE-PCOS) guidelines.

The AE-PCOS guidelines outline two factors that should be present for making a PCOS diagnosis if other diagnoses have been ruled out:

  • Hyperandrogenism: an excess of androgens or “male” hormones
  • Ovarian dysfunction: an absence of ovulation or cysts on the ovaries

The Rotterdam criteria look for three factors:

  • Oligo-anovulation: an absence of ovulation
  • Hyperandrogenism: an excess of androgens or “male” hormones
  • Polycystic ovaries: cysts on the ovaries

According to the Rotterdam criteria, two out of the three criteria must be present for a provider to  diagnose PCOS.

The main difference between the two diagnostic criteria guidelines is that the Rotterdam criteria emphasize the presence of cysts on the ovaries. However, many PCOS patients do not have polycystic ovaries. Because of this, I prefer not to rely on ultrasound imaging for diagnosing ovarian dysfunction in possible PCOS patients. Instead, I look for signs of pelvic discomfort or pain during ovulation and only look at an ultrasound if necessary.

PCOS treatment options

PCOS has become one of the top diseases I treat, but ironically many patients do not know they have it when they come to me. I begin by acknowledging the frustration and confusion my patients may feel. The mental health aspect of these conditions is significant, and I tell my patients that it is not their fault, their hormones are simply out of balance. I often use prescription medications to help, but I work with my patients to wean them off eventually and find the root cause of their symptoms.

I believe it's important to take an individualized and educational approach. What works for one person may not work for another, so it's important to find a treatment plan that's right for you.

PCOS treatments can especially differ depending on whether you’re actively trying to become pregnant.

PCOS treatment for people who aren’t trying to become pregnant

If you aren’t trying to become pregnant, but rather aim to manage your PCOS symptoms, a few

PCOS treatments include:

  • Hormonal birth control: Birth control pills can help regulate periods and reduce the production of androgens (male hormones). This can help manage the symptoms of PCOS.
  • Medication: Drugs like Metformin which are often used to treat diabetes, can be effective in managing the symptoms of PCOS. These medications can help improve insulin resistance and reduce the production of androgens.
  • Lifestyle changes: Making lifestyle adjustments, such as ensuring your weight is at a healthy level for your body, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet, can help manage the symptoms of PCOS and improve fertility.

PCOS treatment for fertility

Getting pregnant with PCOS involves some of the same steps people without PCOS should take for a healthy pregnancy, like maintaining a healthy weight, eating foods high in vitamins and minerals, and keeping balanced blood sugar levels. Some people with PCOS need additional support to get pregnant. There are many common fertility treatments for people with PCOS.

>>MORE: Fueling Your Body for Fertility: 9 Essential Vitamins and Nutrients

Increasing progesterone naturally

If you're trying to conceive, it's a good idea to have your progesterone levels checked and tracked so that you can start supplementation when appropriate. Many people with PCOS have low progesterone levels.

To increase progesterone levels, it's essential to focus on overall hormone balancing. I often recommend starting with hormone-supporting vitamins: vitamin B, vitamin C, and zinc. A great way to do this is by consuming more foods like spinach, pumpkin, nuts, kale, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, broccoli, and beans.

Increasing progesterone with supplements

Some of my favorite supplements to help increase progesterone include Vitex, which stimulates the secretion of LH hormone from the brain. Ashwagandha is a great adaptogen that helps regulate cortisol levels and reduce stress.

Myo-Inositol and N-acetylcysteine can also help promote healthy insulin levels, regulate blood sugars, and reduce androgen levels. Berberine is a potent insulin stabilizer that can help with gut health and inflammation. Vitamin D and fish oil are also recommended for general health and to fight inflammation.

>>MORE: What Supplements Should I Take When Trying to Conceive?

These supplements can generally be purchased over-the-counter at a pharmacy or health store. Some companies sell supplements containing a combination of multiple vitamins or ingredients. It's important to choose a high-quality product with appropriate dosing.

There are some tests that supplement companies go through, which they typically list on the bottle. I look for these when determining the quality of a supplement. Additionally, I pay attention to the company's focus. Some companies specifically focus on conditions like PCOS and infertility whereas some are more general.

It’s important to consider the actual dose of the supplement. I often speak with the representatives at the company to ask about their dosing suggestions. Sometimes, the dose may not be enough for your needs, so you may need additional supplements to reach the full dose your provider recommends. The world of supplements can be complex and it is always important to work with a doctor when making decisions about what vitamins and supplements to add to your care regimen.

Let your doctor know if you are thinking about starting a new supplement so they can help you figure out if it is the best option for you. It's recommended to give the supplements 90 days to see if there is a need to adjust something.

Medication

There are also various types of medication you can take to stimulate ovulation:

  • Clomiphene (Clomid): This medication stimulates ovulation by blocking the effects of estrogen on the brain and causing the pituitary gland to release more follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). These hormones help stimulate the growth and release of an egg from the ovary.
  • Metformin: Often used to treat type 2 diabetes, this medication can also improve insulin resistance and reduce androgens production in people with PCOS. Metformin may help improve fertility in people with PCOS by improving insulin resistance and reducing androgen levels. Early research studies also suggest that Metformin may help reduce the risk of miscarriage in people with PCOS.
  • Letrozole: Like Clomiphene, Letrozole is a medication that can also help stimulate ovulation by inhibiting estrogen production in the body. Letrozole does this by inhibiting aromatase, an enzyme responsible for converting androgens into estrogen. Limiting aromatase helps reduce estrogen production to stimulate the brain’s pituitary gland to release more FSH and LH.

Assisted reproductive techniques

Assisted reproductive techniques such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be recommended for people with PCOS who do not respond to drug treatments alone. IVF involves retrieving eggs and fertilizing them with sperm in a laboratory dish. The fertilized embryos are then transferred back into the uterus.

>>RELATED: Navigating the Medications of IVF

Does insurance cover PCOS treatment?

Most health insurance policies cover the diagnosis and treatment of pre-existing conditions, including PCOS.

While many insurance companies do not cover fertility treatment, they can cover treatment for addressing symptoms of PCOS, which could improve the chances of conception.

Consequences of undiagnosed or untreated PCOS

PCOS often goes undiagnosed, or is diagnosed only after a woman has started facing fertility challenges.

PCOS is a long-term disease that can have serious consequences if left untreated. If PCOS goes untreated, it can lead to other health problems, such as type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease, and endometrial cancer. Because of this, it’s important to catch PCOS early, even if you're trying to conceive.

I think healthcare providers need to be better educated about PCOS so they can help women identify it early on and set the right course for treatment. It's a journey that takes time and can be frustrating for women who are trying to start a family.

I want to start an educational course for providers, such as nurse practitioners and physician assistants, to help fill in some gaps around PCOS and how to best support their patients.

PCOS treatment: the bottom line

Unfortunately, some patients may feel frustrated with their late diagnosis and feel dismissed by their healthcare practitioners. I want to empower my patients to speak up if they feel their symptoms are being dismissed and to seek second opinions if necessary. I also encourage them to view their healthcare as a team approach and to find a healthcare provider they are comfortable with.

About the author

Elinor Hills
Elinor Hills has a Master in Science degree in Medical Anthropology and leads brand strategy and content at Oova. She is passionate about reproductive health research and finding ways to make medical research more accessible. When she's not working, she's either training for a marathon or taking photographs. You can see her work at elinorhills.com.

Sources

perimenopause-periods
Should I still see my gynecologist if my periods are just "weird" but not painful?
Yes. Annual visits remain important during perimenopause. Your provider can help determine if your "weird" periods are typical perimenopause changes or something requiring attention. They can also discuss management options to improve your quality of life.
perimenopause-periods
How long do irregular periods last before menopause?
Irregular perimenopause periods typically last 4 to 8 years before your final period, though this varies greatly. Some women experience irregularity for just a few months, while others have irregular periods for over a decade before reaching menopause.
perimenopause-periods
Is it normal to have two periods in one month during perimenopause?
Yes, this can happen, especially in early perimenopause when cycles shorten. You might have a 21 day cycle, meaning you could have a period at the beginning and end of the same calendar month. Track these patterns to distinguish between short cycles and abnormal bleeding.
perimenopause-periods
Why are my periods suddenly so heavy in my 40s?
Heavy perimenopause periods often result from estrogen dominance. When progesterone drops but estrogen remains high, your uterine lining builds up more than usual, causing heavier bleeding when it sheds. This is common in perimenopause but should be evaluated if it affects your daily life.
perimenopause-periods
Can I still get pregnant if my periods are irregular during perimenopause?
Yes. As long as you're having periods, even irregular ones, you may still be ovulating. Pregnancy is possible until you've gone 12 full months without any period. If you don't want to become pregnant, continue using contraception throughout perimenopause.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Can you prevent perimenopause weight gain completely?
While you may not prevent all weight changes during perimenopause, you can minimize gain through proactive strategies. Starting strength training before perimenopause, maintaining consistent sleep habits, and managing stress can help your body adapt to hormonal changes more smoothly. Remember, some body changes during this transition are normal and healthy.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
At what age does perimenopause weight gain typically start?
Perimenopause weight gain can begin in your late 30s or early 40s, often coinciding with the first hormonal changes. Many women notice gradual changes starting 5 to 10 years before their final period. The timing varies greatly based on genetics, lifestyle, and overall health.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Does everyone gain the same amount during perimenopause?
No. Perimenopause weight gain varies significantly. Some women gain 5 pounds, others 20 or more, and some maintain their weight. Factors include genetics, starting weight, activity level, stress, sleep quality, and how dramatically hormones fluctuate. Your experience is unique to your body.
Is perimenopause weight gain different from regular aging weight gain?
Yes. While metabolism naturally slows with age, perimenopause weight gain has distinct characteristics. The hormonal shifts cause fat redistribution to the midsection, even if overall weight doesn't change dramatically. This abdominal weight gain pattern is specifically linked to declining estrogen and progesterone, not just aging.
perimenopause-and-weight-gain
Will the weight come off after menopause?
Perimenopause weight gain often stabilizes after menopause when hormones level out, but the weight doesn't automatically disappear. The metabolic and body composition changes that occur during perimenopause tend to persist. However, with consistent healthy habits, weight management becomes more predictable post menopause than during the fluctuating perimenopause years.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I take progesterone if I'm breastfeeding?
Yes, progesterone is generally safe while breastfeeding and doesn't significantly affect milk supply. However, always discuss with your healthcare provider before starting any hormone supplementation while nursing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Is it safe to take progesterone throughout pregnancy?
Yes, when prescribed by your healthcare provider. Progesterone supplementation in early pregnancy is safe and can reduce miscarriage risk in women with low progesterone or a history of pregnancy loss. Most providers continue supplementation through the first trimester (weeks 10-12) when the placenta takes over.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can progesterone supplementation cause weight gain?
Progesterone can cause temporary water retention and bloating, which may show up as a few pounds on the scale, but it doesn't cause true fat weight gain. Most women don't experience significant weight changes from progesterone supplementation.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I switch from pills to suppositories or vice versa?
Yes, but only under your doctor's guidance. The dosing and timing may need adjustment when switching between forms since they're absorbed differently. Never switch on your own, especially if you're pregnant or undergoing fertility treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Will progesterone supplementation delay my period?
Yes, progesterone keeps the uterine lining intact, so if you're not pregnant and continue taking progesterone, your period will be delayed. Once you stop taking it, your period should start within 2-10 days. If you are pregnant, progesterone helps maintain the pregnancy and you won't get a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Should I take progesterone pills orally or vaginally?
For fertility and pregnancy support, vaginal progesterone is usually preferred because it delivers higher concentrations directly to the uterus. For perimenopause or general hormone balance, oral progesterone often works well and is more convenient. Your doctor will recommend the best route based on your specific needs.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
When should I start taking progesterone after ovulation?
Typically, progesterone supplementation for luteal phase support starts 2-3 days after ovulation (confirmed by LH surge or temperature rise). Your doctor will give you specific timing based on your protocol. Some women start immediately after a positive ovulation test.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
What's better: progesterone cream or pills?
Pills (oral micronized progesterone) are generally more effective and reliable than creams because absorption from creams is inconsistent. For medical conditions like fertility issues, low progesterone, or HRT, prescription pills or suppositories are strongly recommended over over-the-counter creams.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
How can I tell if I have low or high progesterone?
The only definitive way to know is through hormone testing via blood tests or at-home urine tests that measure progesterone metabolites. However, symptom patterns can provide clues: anxiety and irregular periods suggest low progesterone, while bloating and extreme fatigue suggest high progesterone.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
When during my cycle should I test progesterone levels?
Test progesterone levels during the luteal phase, typically 7 days after ovulation or around day 21 of a 28-day cycle. This is when progesterone should be at its peak, making it easier to identify if levels are too low or too high.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the main differences between low and high progesterone symptoms?
Low progesterone typically causes irregular or heavy periods, anxiety, hot flashes, and sleep issues. High progesterone causes bloating, fatigue, intense breast tenderness, and depression-like mood changes. Low progesterone symptoms persist throughout your cycle, while high progesterone symptoms are most intense during the luteal phase.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
Can you have symptoms of both low and high progesterone?
Some symptoms like breast tenderness and mood changes can occur with both low and high progesterone, making it confusing. However, the timing, intensity, and accompanying symptoms differ. Hormone testing is the best way to determine which imbalance you're experiencing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can stress affect 10 DPO symptoms?
Yes, stress can worsen or mimic 10 DPO symptoms. Stress increases cortisol, which can cause cramping, fatigue, and mood changes similar to both PMS and early pregnancy. During the two-week wait, try stress-reduction techniques like gentle exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is it better to test at 10 DPO or wait?
It's better to wait until 12–14 DPO for more accurate results. Testing at 10 DPO often leads to false negatives because hCG levels may still be too low. If you absolutely can't wait, use a sensitive early detection test with first morning urine, and be prepared to retest in 2–3 days if negative.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does implantation bleeding look like at 10 DPO?
Implantation bleeding at 10 DPO is typically light pink or brown, much lighter than a period, and lasts 1–2 days. It's often just spotting when you wipe or a few drops on a panty liner. However, only 15–20% of pregnant women experience implantation bleeding—most don't have any bleeding at all.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Why am I cramping at 10 DPO?
Cramping at 10 DPO can be caused by elevated progesterone (whether you're pregnant or not), implantation (if you're pregnant), or premenstrual cramping. Unfortunately, cramping alone can't tell you if you're pregnant since progesterone causes similar symptoms in both scenarios.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What are the chances of a BFP at 10 DPO?
If you're pregnant, you have about a 50–60% chance of getting a positive test at 10 DPO. This means there's a 40–50% chance of a false negative even if you conceived. Chances improve significantly by 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What DPO is most accurate for pregnancy testing?
14 DPO (the day of your missed period) is the most accurate time to test, with 99% accuracy. 12 DPO offers 80–90% accuracy. 10 DPO has only 50–60% accuracy. For best results, wait as long as you can—ideally until 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is 10 DPO too early to test?
10 DPO is considered early for pregnancy testing. While some women get positives at 10 DPO, accuracy is only 50–60% if you're pregnant. For best results, wait until 12 DPO (80–90% accuracy) or 14 DPO/missed period (99% accuracy).
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you have implantation at 10 DPO?
Yes, implantation can still occur at 10 DPO, though 84% of women have already implanted by this point. Late implantation at 10–12 DPO is normal. If implantation happens at 10 DPO, you won't get a positive pregnancy test for another 2–3 days.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does a negative test at 10 DPO mean?
A negative test at 10 DPO does not mean you're not pregnant. It's very common to get negatives at 10 DPO even if you conceived. Your hCG levels may still be too low, or implantation may have occurred later. Wait until 12–14 DPO to retest for more accurate results.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you get a positive pregnancy test at 10 DPO?
Yes, but only about 50–60% of pregnant women will get a positive at 10 DPO. The other 40–50% have hCG levels that are still too low to detect. If you test negative at 10 DPO, wait 2–3 days and test again.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Can high progesterone cause weight gain?
Yes, elevated progesterone can cause temporary weight gain through water retention and bloating. This is a normal part of the luteal phase and early pregnancy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Does stress affect estrogen levels?
Yes, chronic stress elevates cortisol, which can suppress estrogen production and disrupt hormonal balance. Stress reduction through meditation, yoga, adequate sleep, and self-care practices helps maintain optimal estrogen levels.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
When should I consider medical treatment for low estrogen?
Consider medical intervention if natural methods don't improve symptoms after 3 months, if symptoms severely impact quality of life, if you're experiencing early menopause (before 40), or if you have fertility concerns. Hormone replacement therapy may be appropriate in these cases.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What are the signs that my estrogen is increasing?
Signs of rising estrogen include more regular menstrual cycles, reduced hot flashes, improved vaginal lubrication, better mood stability, increased energy, and improved skin elasticity. You may also notice reduced symptoms that originally indicated low estrogen.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Can exercise increase estrogen levels?
Yes, moderate exercise stimulates estrogen release and helps maintain hormonal balance. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate cardio weekly plus strength training twice per week. However, excessive exercise can actually lower estrogen, so balance is key.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
How long does it take to increase estrogen naturally?
With consistent dietary and lifestyle changes, you may notice improvements in symptoms within 4-8 weeks. However, significant hormonal changes typically take 2-3 months. Tracking your cycle and symptoms can help you monitor progress.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What foods increase estrogen levels naturally?
Foods high in phytoestrogens can help increase estrogen naturally. The best options include flax seeds (high in lignans), soy products (tofu, tempeh, edamame), lentils, chickpeas, whole grains (oats, quinoa, brown rice), and garlic. These plant compounds mimic estrogen's effects in the body.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What helps relieve hot flashes quickly?
Cool environments, layered clothing, herbal teas, and medical treatments like gabapentin or HRT may help—depending on severity. Lifestyle changes like reducing caffeine and alcohol can also provide relief.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Are there tests to confirm perimenopause?
Yes. Tests measuring estradiol, LH, and FSH levels can indicate hormonal shifts—but diagnosis is often symptom-based since hormone levels fluctuate widely during perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
How do I know it's perimenopause and not something else?
A doctor may recommend hormone testing (like LH, E3G, and PdG) and track symptom timing. Diagnosis is often based on symptoms combined with age and menstrual pattern changes.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What's the earliest age perimenopause can start?
Some women begin experiencing symptoms as early as their mid-30s, though perimenopause typically starts between ages 38-45.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Does perimenopause affect mental clarity?
Yes. Brain fog and difficulty concentrating are common during hormone fluctuations in perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What happens after the last sign of perimenopause?
After your final period, you enter postmenopause. You'll need 12 consecutive months without a period to confirm menopause. Many symptoms gradually improve, though some like vaginal dryness may persist without treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
When do perimenopause symptoms finally stop?
Some symptoms like brain fog improve after menopause, while others like hot flashes may continue for up to 10 years post-menopause. Vaginal symptoms often persist or worsen without treatment. Each person's timeline is different.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Is high progesterone a sign of pregnancy?
Yes, high progesterone is one of the earliest indicators of pregnancy. Progesterone levels rise significantly after conception to support the developing embryo and reach their peak during the third trimester.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Can you still get pregnant in late perimenopause?
Yes, you can still get pregnant during perimenopause as long as you're having periods, even if they're infrequent. Continue using birth control until you've gone 12 consecutive months without a period and have officially reached menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Do symptoms get worse before perimenopause ends?
Yes, most perimenopause symptoms intensify in the final 1-2 years before menopause. Hot flashes peak around your final period, vaginal symptoms worsen, and mood changes increase. However, brain fog typically improves in late perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
How long does late perimenopause last?
Late perimenopause typically lasts 1-3 years before your final period. However, the exact duration varies significantly from person to person. You've reached menopause after 12 consecutive months without a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the symptoms of high progesterone?
High progesterone symptoms include fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, weight gain, anxiety, depression, headaches, and food cravings. During pregnancy, you may also experience increased nipple sensitivity and muscle aches.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What are the first signs that perimenopause is ending?
The earliest signs include longer gaps between periods (60+ days), intensifying hot flashes that peak around your final period, and worsening vaginal dryness. These symptoms typically increase in late perimenopause before you reach official menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
When should I be concerned about high progesterone?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience high progesterone symptoms outside your luteal phase when not pregnant, or if symptoms include severe pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or rapid weight gain while on hormone therapy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
How do you test progesterone levels?
Progesterone can be measured through blood tests at your doctor's office or at-home urine tests that measure PdG (a progesterone metabolite). Testing is typically done during the luteal phase, about 7 days after ovulation.

About the Oova Blog:
‍Our content is developed with a commitment to high editorial standards and reliability. We prioritize referencing reputable sources and sharing where our insights come from. The Oova Blog is intended for informational purposes only and is never a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before making any health decisions.

Posts

Latest Articles

Stress and Perimenopause: How It Affects Your Hormones
Perimenopause
Nov 26, 2025

Stress and Perimenopause: How It Affects Your Hormones

Stress makes perimenopause symptoms significantly worse. Learn how stress affects progesterone, cortisol, and estrogen and what you can do about it.

Perimenopause Bloating: Why Your Belly Won't Flatten (And What Actually Works)
Perimenopause
Nov 20, 2025

Perimenopause Bloating: Why Your Belly Won't Flatten (And What Actually Works)

Digestive health symptoms are jaw-droppingly common in perimenopause. Nearly 80% of women report experiencing perimenopause bloating alone. Read on to learn what causes perimenopause bloating (hint: it isn’t you), and what you can do to help ease bloating and discomfort.

Perimenopause Breast Pain: When to Worry and How to Find Relief
Perimenopause
Nov 20, 2025

Perimenopause Breast Pain: When to Worry and How to Find Relief

Pain and soreness in your breasts are common perimenopause symptoms. While breast pain may seem scary, most cases aren’t cause for concern. Here’s what’s behind perimenopause breast pain, when and how to talk to your doctor, and strategies for pain management.