What is PCOS

PCOS: Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a common condition found in women. 

 

Typical features of PCOS are:

1) Irregular periods/menses: this is due to abnormality in the follicle formation and the egg release process, that is most women with PCOS do not ovulate regularly.

2) Excess facial/body hair or acne: this is due to excess male hormone or androgens in the body. 

3) Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound: enlarged ovaries with too many fluid filled sacs (follicles). But there are no true cysts in the ovary- contrary to the name PCOS. 

 

If you have 2 or more of the above 3 features, you may be suffering from PCOS.

 

Other symptoms seen in PCOS patients: 

- inability to conceive or get pregnant

- hair loss/ thinning 

- weight gain 

- increased risk of long term health

 problems like diabetes, high cholesterol 

 

Why does PCOS occur? 

- Genetic and environmental factors

- May run in families

- Being overweight or obese increases the risk

- excess of hormone insulin due to resistance to action of insulin on body tissues. 

- excess male hormone results due to excess insulin and LH