Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a health condition that affects hormones. It’s actually quite common — more than 1 in 10 women have it — and it can cause changes in your periods and how your body handles certain hormones.
When doctors check for PCOS, they usually look for a few signs:
- Higher levels of “male” hormones (called androgens). This can show up on blood tests or as extra hair growth on the face or body.
- Periods that don’t come regularly — for example, cycles that are more than 35 days apart or less than eight periods a year (not caused by birth control).
- Many small eggs on the ovaries — seen during an ultrasound scan.
If you have two or more of these signs, your doctor may diagnose PCOS.
What Causes PCOS?
The exact cause of PCOS isn’t fully understood. What we do know is that it’s likely the result of a combination of factors — some you inherit (genetics) and some from your environment and lifestyle.
These factors can affect the way your ovaries work. Instead of releasing eggs in a regular pattern, ovulation can be disrupted. This may lead to irregular periods and can also increase the risk of certain metabolic issues, like insulin resistance (when the body has trouble using insulin properly) and higher cholesterol levels.
PCOS often runs in families. In fact, around half of daughters and sisters of someone with PCOS may develop it as well — showing just how important genetics can be.
The good news? PCOS is treatable and manageable. With the right care, you can reduce symptoms, regulate periods, and lower the risk of long-term complications.
What Are the Symptoms of PCOS?
The most common signs of PCOS are:
- Irregular menstrual cycles — periods that don’t come on time or may even skip altogether.
- Higher levels of male hormones (androgens) — which can lead to extra hair growth on the face or body, and sometimes acne.
You might notice some of these changes yourself, but only a healthcare professional can confirm if it’s PCOS. A check-up is also important to look for related issues, like diabetes or cholesterol changes, which sometimes occur alongside PCOS.
How Is PCOS Treated?
There isn’t one single treatment that works for everyone. Instead, treatment focuses on the symptoms that bother you most or affect your health. For example:
- Regulating periods – birth control pills or other hormonal medications can help keep cycles regular.
- Managing the Unwanted – medicines, laser hair removal, or electrolysis may reduce excess hair growth.
- Supporting metabolic health – medicines like metformin can help improve insulin resistance and lower diabetes risk.
- Improving fertility – medications that encourage ovulation may be used if you’re trying to conceive.
Lifestyle changes — such as eating well, staying active, and maintaining a healthy weight — are still considered a key part of treatment. They can improve hormone balance, cycles, and overall health.
Can You Lower Your Risk of Developing PCOS?
Currently, there’s no proven way to completely prevent PCOS because genetics play a big role. However, avoiding excess weight gain, especially during the teenage years and early adulthood, may help reduce how strongly symptoms appear later.
Can You Have a Healthy Pregnancy with PCOS?
Absolutely! Most women with PCOS go on to have healthy pregnancies. While there can be a slightly higher risk of gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, or preterm birth, with good prenatal care these risks are well managed.
What Other Health Concerns Are Linked to PCOS?
Women with PCOS may be more likely to develop:
- March
- High cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Sleigh
- Emotional health challenges, like depression or anxiety
Some studies also suggest there may be a higher lifetime risk for heart disease, though this is still being studied.
Common Misconceptions About PCOS
- Myth: PCOS is caused by ovarian cysts. Not true. Even though “cystic” is in the name, cysts aren’t what cause PCOS — and not everyone with PCOS has them.
- Myth Also not true. Many women conceive naturally, and those who need help often succeed with the right treatments.
