What is PCOS?

Written by Dr. Specialist Stine Andreassen
Specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics, PhD in Obstetrics in 2015 and more than 15 years of clinical practice in Obstetrics and Gynecology

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PCOS stands for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. It is a common hormonal condition that affects up to 1 in 10 women of reproductive age.

PCOS is caused by a hormonal imbalance that affects how the ovaries work. Many women with PCOS have higher levels of androgens (sometimes called “male hormones”), which can interfere with normal ovulation. Despite the name, not all women with PCOS have ovarian cysts. The condition is diagnosed based on a combination of symptoms, hormone levels, and ultrasound findings.

PCOS is a long-term condition, but it can be managed effectively with the right support and treatment.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

Symptoms vary from woman to woman. Some have mild symptoms, while others experience more significant effects. Common symptoms include irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, thinning hair on the scalp, weight gain or difficulty losing weight. PCOS is also associated with insulin resistance, which can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other metabolic conditions over time.

How is PCOS diagnosed?

PCOS is diagnosed based on a combination of at least two of the following three criteria:

·      Irregular or absent ovulation (irregular or absent periods)

·      Signs of elevated androgens (clinical symptoms like acne or excess hair growth, or elevated hormone levels in blood tests)

·      Polycystic ovaries visible on ultrasound

Other conditions that can cause similar symptoms must be ruled out before confirming the diagnosis. Blood tests are often used to check hormone levels and assess blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

 How is PCOS treated?

There is no single cure for PCOS, but symptoms can be effectively managed. Treatment depends on your symptoms, goals and overall health.

• Lifestyle measures: Regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, weight management (if relevant). Even modest weight loss can improve hormone balance and ovulation in some women.

• Regulating menstrual cycles: If you are not trying to get pregnant, hormonal contraception (such as the pill) is often used to regulate periods, reduce acne, reduce excess hair growth and protect the lining of the uterus.

• Managing insulin resistance: Some women benefit from medications such as metformin, particularly if insulin resistance is present.

• Fertility treatment: If you are trying to conceive, medications can stimulate ovulation. Many women with PCOS can become pregnant with appropriate treatment.

When should I see a doctor to discuss PCOS symptoms?

You should consider seeing a doctor if:

• Your periods are very irregular or absent

• You are struggling to become pregnant

• You have troubling acne or excess hair growth

• You experience significant weight gain without clear reason

• You have symptoms of high blood sugar (increased thirst, frequent urination)

• You feel unsure about what is happening in your body

Why does PCOS increase the risk of infertility?

PCOS can increase the risk of infertility because it often interferes with regular ovulation. In a typical menstrual cycle, one egg is released from the ovary each month. In women with PCOS, hormonal imbalance can prevent this egg from maturing and being released. This means ovulation may happen rarely – or not at all. Without regular ovulation, it becomes more difficult to conceive naturally. However, it is important to remember: PCOS does not mean you cannot get pregnant. It means you may need support to help regulate ovulation. With treatment, many women with PCOS successfully conceive.

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FAQ – PCOS

• What is PCOS?

  Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects how the ovaries function. It can cause irregular menstrual cycles, elevated levels of certain hormones, and changes in ovulation. PCOS is one of the most common causes of ovulatory infertility.

• What are the symptoms of PCOS?

  Symptoms of PCOS vary from person to person but may include:

  • Irregular or absent menstrual periods

  • Difficulty becoming pregnant

  • Excess facial or body hair growth

  • Acne or oily skin

  • Thinning hair or hair loss

  • Weight gain or difficulty managing weight

  Some individuals with PCOS may experience only a few symptoms, while others may experience several.

• What causes PCOS?

  The exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood. Research suggests that genetic, hormonal, and metabolic factors may all play a role. Insulin resistance is also commonly associated with PCOS.

• How is PCOS diagnosed?

  PCOS is diagnosed based on a combination of symptoms, medical history, physical examination, blood tests, and sometimes ultrasound imaging. A healthcare professional will assess several factors before making a diagnosis.

• Can PCOS affect fertility?

  Yes. PCOS can affect ovulation, which may make it more difficult to become pregnant. However, many people with PCOS conceive naturally, and a range of treatments and fertility support options are available when needed.

• Can PCOS be treated?

  There is currently no cure for PCOS, but symptoms can often be managed through lifestyle modifications, medication, hormonal treatments, or fertility support, depending on individual needs and goals.