Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects 1 in 10 women. Despite being common, a large percentage of them remain undiagnosed simply because of lack of awareness of the condition or the symptoms were not serious enough requiring a visit to the hospital.
An imbalance in the reproductive hormones in a woman’s body causes PCOS. Women normally produce a small amount of the male hormone (androgen) in their bodies, but those with PCOS produce it in excess. A majority of women with PCOS are also obese and resistant to insulin, a hormone necessary for controlling blood sugar levels. As a result, the body produces high levels of insulin. This in turn increases androgen levels, which causes issues with ovulation and is responsible for some of the symptoms associated with this condition. The name itself can be misleading because not all women with PCOS have cysts in their ovaries.
PCOS is more common in women during the reproductive years. The exact cause is not known but hereditary factors (a family history of PCOS), excess androgen secretion and insulin resistance can play a role. Additionally, factors like sedentary lifestyle and improper diet habits can increase the chance of developing PCOS.
The symptoms of PCOS may vary among women. The absence of ovulation (when the ovaries release an egg each month) and high levels of androgens cause a cluster of symptoms that may affect reproductive function. Ovaries may also develop many cysts on the surface (hence the name polycystic ovary).
Common symptoms of PCOS are:
Gynaecologists diagnose PCOS in a teenager or an adult based on at least two of the three criteria:
Adolescent PCOS is slightly more challenging to identify because some of the symptoms in teenagers like acne and irregular periods overlap with the normal physiological changes associated with puberty. Even if a teenager does not fulfil two of the three criteria mentioned above, it is advised that she be assessed again later to conclusively identify PCOS.
Some women with PCOS may be sub fertile because PCOS interferes with the growth and release of eggs from the ovaries. It is a myth that women with PCOS cannot get pregnant. With lifestyle changes and weight reduction, egg release happens and most women conceive naturally. Some may require additional treatments with medications. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a good option for increasing the chances of pregnancy when medications fail.
PCOS can have lifelong impact on women’s health. They are prone to develop serious health problems like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, mood disorders, depression, anxiety or cancer in the reproductive system. It is important to remember that though there is no cure for PCOS, these problems can be prevented by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and taking appropriate medications.
If you think you have PCOS, do not hesitate to consult a gynaecologist. Women tend to avoid consulting a doctor since the symptoms of PCOS are not life threatening.
Lifestyle interventions is the core focus in PCOS management. Exercises alone or a combination of exercises, well-balanced diet and behavioural strategies is recommended for all women with PCOS to improve metabolic health, body composition, weight management and overall quality of life.
Maa Kauvery, a unit of Kauvery Hospital, Radial Road, is an advanced women and childcare centre. There is a dedicated PCOS Clinic at Maa Kauvery – here we offer comprehensive care for women who have PCOS. We have a team comprising of a gynaecologist, endocrinologist, fertility specialist, cardiologist, dermatologist, psychologist, clinical nutritionist and physiotherapist – all in one place, making Maa Kauvery a one-stop solution for all your PCOS needs.
Our team of specialists will work with you to develop an individualized plan that includes educating and creating awareness about PCOS, setting lifestyle goals, customized diet charts, treatment of symptoms like irregular periods, acne, etc., through medications and addressing long-term health issues that arise due to PCOS.
Together, let us conquer PCOS and stay healthy!
Dr. K. Thendral Clinical Lead and Senior Consultant, Obstetrics & Gynaecology Kauvery Hospital Chennai – Radial Road
What is PCOS in simple terms?
PCOS is a hormonal condition where women produce higher male hormones, affecting periods, ovulation, weight, and skin health.
Can women with PCOS get pregnant naturally?
Yes. Many women with PCOS conceive naturally after lifestyle changes and weight management. Some may need medical support.
What are the early symptoms of PCOS?
Irregular periods, acne, excess facial hair, weight gain, and difficulty conceiving are common early signs.
How is PCOS diagnosed?
PCOS is diagnosed using symptoms, hormone tests, and ultrasound findings based on standard criteria.
Is PCOS a lifelong condition?
PCOS has no permanent cure, but symptoms and long-term risks can be controlled with proper care and lifestyle changes.
Why is lifestyle management important in PCOS?
Healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight control improve hormone balance, fertility, and long-term health outcomes.
Kauvery Hospital is globally known for its multidisciplinary services at all its Centers of Excellence, and for its comprehensive, Avant-Grade technology, especially in diagnostics and remedial care in heart diseases, transplantation, vascular and neurosciences medicine. Located in the heart of Trichy (Tennur, Royal Road and Alexandria Road (Cantonment), Chennai (Alwarpet, Radial Road & Vadapalani), Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli and Bengaluru, the hospital also renders adult and paediatric trauma care.
Chennai Alwarpet – 044 4000 6000 • Chennai Radial Road – 044 6111 6111 • Chennai Vadapalani – 044 4000 6000 • Trichy – Cantonment – 0431 4077777 • Trichy – Heartcity – 0431 4077777 • Trichy – Tennur – 0431 4022555 • Maa Kauvery Trichy – 0431 4077777 • Kauvery Cancer Institute, Trichy – 0431 4077777 • Hosur – 04344 272727 • Salem – 0427 2677777 • Tirunelveli – 0462 4006000 • Bengaluru – 080 6801 68011
