PCOS explained: symptoms, diagnosis and how it is managed
Irregular periods, acne, weight gain and difficulty getting pregnant can all point to PCOS. What it is, and why it can be managed well.
Women's healthRudraksh Healthcare team5 min read
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions in young women. It affects how the ovaries work, often stopping an egg from being released every month.
Common symptoms
- Irregular periods, or missing periods for months
- Weight gain, especially around the waist
- Acne and oily skin
- Extra hair on the face, chest or abdomen
- Thinning of hair on the scalp
- Difficulty getting pregnant
How it is diagnosed
Diagnosis is based on your symptoms, blood tests for hormones, and an ultrasound of the ovaries. Not every woman with PCOS has cysts on the scan, and not everyone with cysts has PCOS, which is why a full evaluation matters.
Managing PCOS
- Lifestyle changes come first: regular exercise and a balanced diet. Losing even 5 to 10 percent of body weight can bring periods back
- Medicines to regulate periods and control symptoms
- Treatment for acne and excess hair
- Medicines to help ovulation when you are trying to conceive, with IUI or IVF if needed
Why it matters long term
PCOS raises the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol later in life. Regular check-ups and a healthy lifestyle reduce these risks.
This article is general health information, not medical advice. Everyone is different: please consult a doctor about your own symptoms and treatment.