What Is PCOS ?

What Is PCOS

 What is PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome )?

So What is PCOS :

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that affects many women of reproductive age. It occurs when the ovaries produce higher-than-normal levels of male hormones (androgens) and when the balance of reproductive hormones is disrupted.

This hormonal imbalance can lead to:

  • Irregular or missed periods

  • Difficulty with ovulation

  • Acne and oily skin

  • Excess facial or body hair

  • Weight changes

  • Fertility challenges

The good news: PCOS is very common and treatable, and many women live healthy, fulfilling lives with appropriate care.


Causes of PCOS (Etiopathogenesis)

Why Does PCOS Happen?

PCOS does not have a single cause. It develops due to a combination of metabolic, hormonal, genetic, and lifestyle factors.

1. Insulin Resistance

Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, meaning the body does not respond normally to insulin. This can lead to:

  • High insulin levels

  • Increased androgen production from the ovaries

  • Difficulty managing weight

  • Irregular ovulation

2. Hormonal Imbalance

PCOS is characterised by disruption of key reproductive hormones:

  • LH (Luteinizing Hormone) – relatively high

  • FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) – relatively low

  • Androgens (testosterone, DHEAS) – elevated

  • Progesterone – low due to lack of ovulation

This imbalance prevents normal egg development each month.

3. Genetic Factors

PCOS often runs in families. If a mother or sister has PCOS, the risk may be higher.

4. Lifestyle & Environmental Factors

Stress, poor sleep, and sedentary habits can worsen symptoms, but they are not the root cause.
👉 PCOS is not your fault.


Symptoms of PCOS

Common Symptoms of PCOS

Symptoms vary from woman to woman. Some may experience many symptoms, while others have only a few.

Menstrual & Reproductive Symptoms

  • Irregular or missed periods

  • Very light or very heavy bleeding

  • Difficulty conceiving

  • Irregular or absent ovulation

Skin, Hair & Hormonal Symptoms

  • Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism)

  • Acne or oily skin

  • Hair thinning or hair loss on the scalp

Metabolic & Weight Symptoms

  • Weight gain or difficulty losing weight

  • Darkened skin patches on the neck or underarms (acanthosis nigricans)

Emotional & Mental Health

  • Mood swings

  • Anxiety or depression (common but often overlooked)


Diagnosis Section

How is PCOS Diagnosed?

PCOS is diagnosed using a combination of clinical assessment, blood tests, and imaging.

1. Clinical Evaluation

  • Menstrual history

  • Acne, hair growth, and weight patterns

2. Blood Tests

Tests may include:

  • Androgen levels (testosterone, DHEAS)

  • LH and FSH

  • Insulin and glucose levels

  • Thyroid and prolactin (to rule out other conditions)

3. Pelvic Ultrasound

Ovaries may appear enlarged or show multiple small follicles.

Important: You do not need cysts on the ovaries to be diagnosed with PCOS.


Types of PCOS (Optional Educational Section)

Types of PCOS

(These are not official categories but help understand symptom patterns.)

  • Insulin-Resistant PCOS (most common)

  • Inflammatory PCOS

  • Post-Pill PCOS (temporary)

  • Adrenal PCOS (high DHEAS)

👉 Treatment is personalised depending on the dominant pattern.


Is PCOS Curable?

Is PCOS Curable?

PCOS is not permanently “curable,” but it is highly manageable.
With proper treatment and lifestyle changes:

  • Periods can become regular

  • Symptoms can stabilise

  • Fertility can often be restored


Treatment Section

How is PCOS Managed?

Treatment depends on individual goals—cycle regulation, symptom control, weight balance, or fertility.


1. Lifestyle Management (Foundation for All Patients)

Diet

Balanced nutrition—not crash dieting:

  • High-fiber vegetables

  • Lean proteins

  • Whole grains

  • Healthy fats

  • Reduced refined sugars and processed carbs

Exercise

At least 150 minutes per week:

  • Walking

  • Strength training

  • Cardio

Sleep & Stress

  • 7–8 hours of sleep

  • Yoga, meditation, mindfulness


2. Medical Treatment

For Irregular Periods

  • Combined oral contraceptives (OCPs)

  • Cyclic progesterone therapy

For Acne & Excess Hair

  • OCPs

  • Anti-androgen medications (e.g., spironolactone)

For Insulin Resistance & Weight

  • Metformin

  • Other metabolic medications (selected cases)

For Fertility

  • Ovulation induction (Letrozole – first line)

  • Injectable medications

  • IVF when required


PCOS & Fertility

PCOS and Fertility

PCOS is one of the most treatable causes of infertility.
The primary issue is irregular ovulation, which can usually be corrected with:

  • Lifestyle changes

  • Medications

  • Assisted reproductive techniques (if needed)

Many women with PCOS conceive naturally once cycles become regular.


Long-Term Health Risks

Long-Term Health Considerations

Women with PCOS may have a higher risk of:

  • Type 2 diabetes

  • Cholesterol imbalance

  • High blood pressure

  • Sleep apnea

  • Endometrial thickening

👉 Regular follow-ups help prevent these complications.


Menu / Services Page Structure

Menu Title:

PCOS Services at Our Centre


1. Conservative & Medical Management

(Use cards or accordion layout)

  • Hormonal regulation

  • Metabolic & weight management

  • Skin & hair treatments

  • Emotional & long-term care


2. Fertility & Reproductive Services for PCOS

  • Ovulation induction

  • IUI

  • IVF (PCOS-safe protocols)

  • ICSI & FET

  • OHSS prevention


3. Surgical Services

  • Laparoscopic ovarian drilling (selected cases)

  • Management of associated conditions

  • Bariatric surgery referral (selected patients)


4. Diagnostic & Supportive Services

  • Hormonal & metabolic testing

  • Ultrasound & follicular monitoring

  • Lifestyle & wellness programs


5. PCOS Care Packages

(Excellent for conversions)

  • PCOS Evaluation Package

  • PCOS Weight & Metabolic Program

  • PCOS Fertility Package

  • PCOS Skin & Hair Care Plan

  • PCOS Long-Term Monitoring Program

Consult now Today

What Is PCOS ?

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