Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age. It impacts ovarian function, hormone levels, and overall reproductive health. Women with PCOS often experience irregular periods, excessive hair growth, acne, and weight gain due to hormonal imbalances.
PCOS is not just a reproductive issue; it is a complex endocrine condition that affects metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and cardiovascular health.
What Causes PCOS?
The exact cause of PCOS remains unclear, but various interlinked factors contribute to its development:
- Insulin Resistance: Elevated insulin levels can increase androgen production, disrupting ovulation.
- Hormonal Imbalance: Excess androgens lead to acne, hirsutism, and hair thinning.
- Genetic Factors: PCOS runs in families, suggesting a hereditary component.
- Inflammation: Low-grade inflammation can stimulate ovaries to produce more androgens.
- Lifestyle Factors: Poor diet, inactivity, and obesity worsen hormonal and metabolic symptoms.
Common Symptoms of PCOS
Recognising the symptoms early helps in timely diagnosis and effective management. Common signs include:
- Irregular or missed periods
- Excessive hair growth (face, chest, or back)
- Acne or oily skin
- Weight gain and difficulty losing weight
- Hair thinning on the scalp
- Skin darkening around neck or groin
- Difficulty conceiving
These symptoms vary in intensity and may progress over time.
Diagnosis: How PCOS Is Detected
To diagnose PCOS, doctors often use the Rotterdam criteria, which require at least two of these three signs:
- Irregular or no ovulation
- Elevated levels of androgens
- Polycystic ovaries visible on ultrasound
Diagnostic Tests Include
- Blood tests for hormone and insulin levels
- Ultrasound scan of ovaries
- Assessment of menstrual cycle regularity and symptoms
Early diagnosis helps prevent long-term complications such as diabetes and heart disease.
PCOS and Pregnancy Challenges
Polycystic ovaries and pregnancy can often be a complicated duo. Women with PCOS may struggle with ovulation, making conception harder. However, with medical support, many achieve healthy pregnancies.
Treatment Options for Fertility
- Clomiphene Citrate: Stimulates ovulation
- Metformin: Improves insulin sensitivity
- IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation): For advanced cases
- Lifestyle Management: Weight reduction significantly improves fertility outcomes
Even if you are getting pregnant with PCOS after 30 or 40, well-planned medical management increases success rates.
PCOS and Weight Management
Weight gain is both a cause and effect of PCOS, creating a cycle that is hard to break. Insulin resistance leads to fat storage, especially around the abdomen, complicating weight loss efforts.
Best Way to Lose Weight with PCOS
- Choose a low-glycaemic, high-fibre diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains).
- Reduce refined carbohydrates and sugary foods.
- Exercise consistently, especially strength training and cardio.
- Manage stress through yoga and mindfulness.
- Consider expert supplements such as Oziva HerBalance or Furocyst (only after medical advice).
Women working out with PCOS often find that combining resistance exercise with balanced nutrition yields the best results.
Complications Linked with PCOS
Untreated PCOS can lead to serious health issues, including:
- Type 2 diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Endometrial cancer
- Sleep apnoea
- Infertility
- Hypertension
- Mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression
Monitoring and long-term management are essential to prevent these complications.
Treatment Options for PCOS
There is no permanent cure for PCOS, but symptoms can be effectively managed. Treatment depends on whether fertility is a current goal.
When Not Trying to Conceive
- Oral contraceptives regulate periods and reduce androgen symptoms.
- Anti-androgen medications such as spironolactone control acne and excess hair growth.
- Lifestyle modifications including exercise and mindful eating remain cornerstone strategies.
When Trying to Conceive
- Ovulation-inducing medications such as clomiphene or letrozole.
- Insulin-sensitising drugs such as metformin.
- Assisted reproductive technologies (IVF) for resistant cases.
Supplements like Resveratrol and Inofolic Alpha are also studied for improving insulin sensitivity and ovarian function.
PCOS and Mental Health
Hormonal imbalance and physical symptoms can take a psychological toll. Mood swings, depression, and anxiety are common. Therapy, mindfulness, and community support groups such as Cysterhood can help women share experiences and manage emotions effectively.
Prevention and Lifestyle Tips
Though PCOS cannot always be prevented, its severity can be minimised through:
- Maintaining a healthy BMI
- Following a balanced diet
- Staying physically active
- Sleeping well
- Managing stress through yoga or meditation
- Regular medical check-ups
Even moderate weight loss (5–10%) can significantly restore normal ovulatory cycles.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is PCOS?
PCOS is a hormonal disorder affecting women’s ovaries and menstrual cycles. - Is PCOS the same as PCOD?
Though similar, PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) is a milder condition, whereas PCOS is more severe. - Can I get pregnant with PCOS?
Yes. Medical treatments, weight loss, and ovulation therapies can help achieve pregnancy. - What are the leading PCOS causes?
Genetics, insulin resistance, inflammation, and hormonal imbalance. - Can weight loss help with PCOS?
Yes. Losing weight restores hormonal balance and improves fertility. - Does PCOS cause weight gain?
Hormonal and insulin resistance cause abdominal fat accumulation. - What is the best diet for PCOS?
A low-glycaemic, high-fibre, and protein-rich diet helps manage insulin levels. - Is PCOS lifelong?
It can be managed effectively, though symptoms may persist without lifestyle control. - Does PCOS affect mental health?
Yes. Anxiety and depression are common but manageable with proper care and counselling. - How is PCOS diagnosed?
Through hormonal blood tests, ultrasound, and evaluation of menstrual history.
Sources and References
- Mayo Clinic — PCOS Overview (2025)
- World Health Organization — Reproductive Health Data
- NHS UK — Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
- National Institutes of Health — Endocrine Studies
- Indian Gynaecological Society Reports, 2024
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified doctor before starting or changing any treatment, supplements, or medications related to PCOS.
