Conditions

PCOS

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) — now also called PMOS (Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome). PCOS is a common condition that affects a woman's hormones. It can make periods irregular and may make it harder to become pregnant. It can also cause weight gain, acne, and extra hair growth on the face or body. PCOS can be treated, and most women with PCOS can live a healthy life.

Common signs and symptoms

Irregular or missed periods
Difficulty getting pregnant
Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
Pimples (acne)
Extra hair on the face, chest, or tummy
Hair thinning on the scalp
Dark skin around the neck or underarms

Not every woman with PCOS has all these symptoms.

Why does PCOS happen?

The exact cause is not known. It may run in families. Many women with PCOS have a problem called insulin resistance, where the body does not use insulin properly. This can lead to weight gain and make PCOS symptoms worse.

How is PCOS diagnosed?

We will:

Ask about your periods and symptoms
Examine you
Recommend blood tests
Suggest an ultrasound scan if needed

How is PCOS treated?

Healthy lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle is the most important treatment.

Eat healthy home-cooked meals
Eat more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, pulses, and lean protein
Reduce sweets, sugary drinks, and junk food
Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week
Losing even a small amount of weight can improve periods and increase the chance of pregnancy

My mantra: Eat less, walk more!

Medicines

We may prescribe medicines to:

Make your periods regular
Help with acne or unwanted hair growth
Improve insulin resistance
Help you become pregnant if you are planning a baby

Always take medicines only as advised by us or the concerned doctor.

Why is regular treatment important?

If PCOS is not treated, it may increase the risk of:

Diabetes (high blood sugar)
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Problems with pregnancy
Cancer of the uterus (womb) if periods are absent for a long time

Regular check-ups help prevent these problems.

When should you visit us?

See your doctor if you:

Do not get your period for more than 3 months (and are not pregnant)
Have very heavy or prolonged bleeding
Are trying to become pregnant without success
Notice rapid weight gain, severe acne, or increased facial hair

Remember

PCOS is common and treatable
Healthy eating, regular exercise, and taking medicines as prescribed can control PCOS
Regular follow-up with your doctor is important to keep you healthy
It will reduce future health problems like diabetes, high blood pressure, and some gynecological cancers

Have a question about your situation?

Talk to our specialists

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