Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) / Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age. It is characterized by irregular ovulation, excess androgen (male hormone) production, and/or polycystic ovaries. PCOS can affect menstruation, fertility, metabolism, and long-term health.

How Common is PCOS?

PCOS affects approximately 8–13% of women of reproductive age, although many remain undiagnosed. It is one of the leading causes of anovulatory infertility.

Causes of PCOS

The exact cause is unknown, but several factors contribute:

1. Genetic Factors

Women with a family history of PCOS are at increased risk.

2. Insulin Resistance

Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, where the body’s cells do not respond effectively to insulin.

This leads to:

• Increased insulin levels
• Increased androgen production
• Difficulty with ovulation
• Weight gain

3. Hormonal Imbalance

Women with PCOS often have:

• Elevated androgens (male hormones)
• Increased LH (Luteinizing Hormone)
• Disturbed LH:FSH ratio in some cases
• Irregular ovulation

4. Low-Grade Inflammation

Chronic low-grade inflammation may contribute to increased androgen production and insulin resistance.

Signs and Symptoms

Menstrual Problems

• Irregular periods
• Delayed periods
• Missed periods
• Very light or very heavy bleeding

Ovulation Problems

• Irregular ovulation
• No ovulation (anovulation)
• Difficulty conceiving

Hyperandrogenism (Excess Male Hormones)

Symptoms include:

• Excess facial hair (hirsutism)
• Chest or abdominal hair growth
• Acne
• Oily skin
• Hair thinning or male-pattern hair loss

Weight Changes

• Weight gain
• Difficulty losing weight
• Central (abdominal) obesity

Skin Changes

• Dark, velvety patches of skin (acanthosis nigricans), often on the neck or underarms
• Skin tags

Emotional Symptoms

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Low self-esteem
• Body image concerns

How Does PCOS Affect Fertility?

PCOS can interfere with regular ovulation.

Without regular ovulation:

• The egg may not be released each month.
• Pregnancy becomes more difficult.

Many women with PCOS can conceive successfully with lifestyle changes and appropriate medical treatment.