Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex, chronic, and common endocrine disorder observed in women of reproductive age (15years-45years). 1 in 10 women and people with ovaries are affected, yet 70% don’t even know. The prevalence is quite high and is increasing progressively.

A combination of signs and symptoms of androgen excess, insulin resistance, and ovarian dysfunction characterises this syndrome. PCOS is linked to insulin resistance, gut health, stress, and sleep. PCOS is not only about the ovaries; it is deeply connected to metabolic health. It has multiple long-term consequences.

Common PCOS Symptoms

• Irregular/absent periods
• Acne/oily skin
• Excessive coarse facial hair (Hirsutism)
• Scalp hair thinning
• Weight gain/difficulty losing weight
• Fatigue/Low energy
• Dark velvety patches in skin folds like the neck, armpits, and groin (acanthosis nigricans)
• Infertility

These symptoms we have been told to dismiss as ‘just part of being a woman’ are actually signals.

Diagnosing PCOS

According to the diagnostic criteria for PCOS, also known as the Rotterdam Criteria

You need 2 out of 3 tests to confirm PCOS.

Tests include:

1. An Ultrasound (depicting multiple unruptured follicles)  
2. Disturbed Hormones (increased serum testosterone levels)
3. Irregular ovulation

Along with clinical examination by a doctor to actually diagnose PCOS.

Debunking Myths Related to PCOS

1. PCOS vs PCOD (One is more severe)

This is absolute garbage

PCOD and PCOS are the same thing.

Only one terminology is older, and the other is newer.

2. Only Fat people get PCOS

No

There is lean PCOS also

Thin and lean-built people can also get PCOS

3. You can dissolve the cysts on your ovaries with these medicines.

Absolutely No

Because no actual cysts are formed in PCOS, they are just cyst-like structures (unruptured follicles), which are actually just immature eggs.

4. You can cure PCOS with these medicines.

There is no way to completely cure PCOS, just like hypertension, diabetes

You can manage PCOS.

Managing PCOS

‘Choose yourself over anyone’

The most important step in managing PCOS is lifestyle modification. Includes whole foods/home-cooked meals. Move your body daily – Do yoga, hit the gym, or join a Zumba class in any way to move your body.

Prioritise sleep, limit screen time before bed.

Sleep according to your biological clock. Track your menstrual cycles every month. Manage stress and meditate.

Do things you love

PCOS and Mental Health-the side that no one talks about

For women with PCOS, it’s so common that their friends and family have no idea how much it is affecting their mental health in ways

• Exhaustion throughout the day
• Not sleeping at night
• Mood swings
• Frustration
• Body dysmorphia
• And being called lazy when you are actually not

You are not alone 

Speak/Communicate/Consult

Until you feel like yourself 

Love yourself