PCOS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects millions of women around the world. It’s more than just a reproductive issue—it’s a hormonal imbalance that can lead to serious health complications if left unchecked. Let’s break down what PCOS is, why it matters, and how it can be managed.

What is PCOS?

PCOS is a hormonal disorder where a woman’s ovaries produce more androgens (male hormones) than normal. This excess of androgens disrupts the balance of hormones that control the menstrual cycle, leading to irregular periods, difficulty with ovulation, and sometimes, infertility. Women with PCOS may also have small, fluid-filled sacs in their ovaries, known as cysts, although not all women with PCOS will develop these.

PCOS is surprisingly common. It affects between 5% and 15% of women worldwide, making it one of the most common hormonal disorders in women of reproductive age​. Many women may have PCOS and not even realize it, since its symptoms can vary greatly from person to person.

Diagnosing PCOS: What to Look For

PCOS is diagnosed based on a combination of symptoms. According to the Rotterdam criteria, a woman must have two of the following:

  • Irregular or absent periods (a sign that she isn’t ovulating regularly),

  • Signs of excess androgens, like unwanted hair growth, acne, or thinning hair,

  • Polycystic ovaries seen on an ultrasound​.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor.

What Causes PCOS?

The exact cause of PCOS isn’t fully understood, but scientists believe it’s a combination of genetics and environmental factors. Many women with PCOS have a family history of the condition. Insulin resistance also plays a big role—when the body doesn’t use insulin effectively, it can cause higher levels of androgens, which worsen PCOS symptoms.

Photo credit: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education & Research

Why is PCOS Risky?

PCOS is about more than just irregular periods. It’s linked to serious health problems like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease. Women with PCOS are also at higher risk of developing endometrial cancer due to irregular ovulation​. Additionally, PCOS often leads to mental health challenges, with many women experiencing anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem​. PCOS can make it hard to get pregnant because it interferes with ovulation.

The Connection Between PCOS and Obesity

Obesity and PCOS often go hand-in-hand, but not always. Women with PCOS tend to have more difficulty losing weight, and excess weight can worsen PCOS symptoms. Obesity makes insulin resistance more pronounced, which leads to higher androgen levels and more problems with ovulation​. However, it’s important to note that thin women can also have PCOS, and they can face the same health risks.

Treatment Options: What You Can Do

While there’s no cure for PCOS, there are several ways to manage its symptoms:

  1. Lifestyle Changes: Diet and exercise are key. Even a small amount of weight loss can help improve hormone levels, regulate your cycle, and reduce insulin resistance​.

  2. Medications: Birth control pills are commonly prescribed to regulate periods and control androgen levels. For women who want to get pregnant, medications like letrozole can help induce ovulation​.

  3. Non-Hormonal Treatments: Some women may prefer non-hormonal treatments. Supplements like inositol can improve insulin sensitivity, while omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants may help with inflammation

It’s important to stay proactive about your PCOS care—regular check-ups and monitoring are key to preventing long-term issues like reproductive problems, diabetes and heart disease​

How Dr. Hasan Can Help

At Chia Endocrinology & Wellness, Dr. Hasan offers personalized care for women with PCOS. His approach combines hormonal treatments with lifestyle guidance to help manage the full range of PCOS symptoms. Whether you’re struggling with weight, fertility, or managing your health long-term, Dr. Hasan can create a plan that works for you. With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, many women with PCOS can successfully manage their symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.