PCOS 101: What You Need to Know About Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects an estimated 1 in 10 women of reproductive age worldwide (WHO, 2023). Despite its prevalence, up to 70% of women remain undiagnosed — often told their symptoms are “just hormonal changes” or “stress.”

PCOS is more than an irregular period problem — it’s a hormonal and metabolic condition that can affect fertility, skin, weight, and even long-term health.

🧬 What Exactly Is PCOS?

PCOS is a condition where the ovaries produce excess androgens (male-type hormones like testosterone). This disrupts normal ovulation and leads to:

Irregular or absent periods
Small cyst-like follicles on the ovaries (visible via ultrasound)
Signs of androgen excess (acne, excess facial/body hair, or scalp hair thinning)

Doctors usually diagnose PCOS using the Rotterdam Criteria:
✅ Irregular ovulation
✅ Excess androgen symptoms or blood levels
✅ Polycystic ovaries on scan
(You need two of the three for a diagnosis).

🚨 Common Symptoms of PCOS

Symptoms vary, but may include:

Missed or unpredictable periods
Difficulty getting pregnant
Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
Excess hair growth (hirsutism)
Acne or oily skin
Hair thinning on the scalp
Fatigue or mood changes

🌍 PCOS Beyond Fertility

PCOS isn’t just about reproduction. It’s also linked to:

Insulin resistance → higher risk of type 2 diabetes
High cholesterol & blood pressure → increased heart disease risk
Endometrial cancer risk (due to prolonged unopposed oestrogen)
Mental health challenges → anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem

🥗 Managing PCOS

While there’s no cure, management makes a huge difference:

Lifestyle changes: Healthy diet, regular exercise, and sleep hygiene help balance hormones and improve insulin sensitivity.
Medications: Options include contraceptive pills (to regulate cycles), metformin (for insulin resistance), and fertility treatments if trying to conceive.
Skin/hair treatments: Dermatology care for acne, laser therapy or medications for hair growth concerns.
Mental health support: Therapy, support groups, or mindfulness practices.

🩺 When to See a Doctor

Seek medical advice if you have:

Very irregular or absent periods
Excess hair growth, severe acne, or unexplained weight gain
Difficulty getting pregnant
Strong family history of diabetes or hormonal issues

✅ Key Takeaways

PCOS affects 1 in 10 women but many go undiagnosed.
It’s a whole-body condition affecting hormones, metabolism, fertility, and mental health.
Lifestyle changes + medical support can make symptoms much more manageable.

❓ What’s Your Take?

Do you know someone with PCOS — or have you experienced the frustration of delayed diagnosis yourself? Share your story — your voice might help another woman feel less alone.

📚 Sources