What is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is often misunderstood. The name suggests there are "cysts" in your ovaries, but that's not quite accurate. Instead, they are actually follicles, which are small fluid-filled sacs, each containing an egg.

How Ovulation Works

When you’re born, you have a set number of eggs in your ovaries. Each month, one of these follicles matures, and during ovulation, the follicle releases an egg. If the egg meets a sperm, fertilisation happens, and this can lead to pregnancy.

Your body has a cycle where the brain, ovaries, and uterus communicate to ensure you have a period each month. However, if this communication gets disrupted, it can lead to PCOS. This can cause irregular periods, no periods at all, or unexpected bleeding between periods.

Common Symptoms of PCOS

Patients with PCOS often report symptoms such as:

• Excessive hair growth (usually on the face, chest, or back)

• Acne

• Irregular or missed periods

• Heavy periods that can impact daily life

These symptoms can significantly affect your quality of life.

How is PCOS Diagnosed?

Doctors use something called the Rotterdam Criteria to diagnose PCOS. This includes:

1. Hyperandrogenism: High levels of male hormones (like testosterone) which can cause acne or hair growth.

2. Blood Tests: These help check for elevated testosterone levels and rule out other conditions that might cause similar symptoms.

Talking to your doctor about your specific symptoms is also a key part of getting an accurate diagnosis.

Potential Risks of PCOS

PCOS isn’t just about managing symptoms; it’s also about preventing potential long-term health issues:

1. Endometrial Cancer: Irregular bleeding can lead to changes in the lining of the uterus, which may increase cancer risk.

2. Insulin Resistance: PCOS can make it harder for your body to process sugar, increasing your risk of type 2 diabetes. Your doctor may test your blood sugar levels to monitor this.

3. Quality of Life: Heavy periods can lead to anaemia (low iron levels) and fatigue.

4. Infertility: Because PCOS disrupts regular ovulation, it can make it harder to get pregnant.

Managing PCOS: What Can You Do?

Managing PCOS involves a combination of strategies:

1. Lifestyle Changes: Diet, exercise, and stress management can help regulate your cycle and improve your symptoms.

2. Insulin Resistance: Doctors may recommend medications or lifestyle changes to help control blood sugar levels.

3. Hormone Therapy: Birth control pills can help regulate periods and reduce symptoms like acne and excess hair growth.

4. Fertility Treatments: If you’re trying to conceive, there are options to help stimulate ovulation and increase your chances of pregnancy.

Conclusion: You're Not Alone

If you’re living with PCOS, it can be exhausting and frustrating, especially if you’re dealing with heavy bleeding, fatigue, or difficulty conceiving. As an OBGYN, I see patients with PCOS every week, and I understand how it affects your quality of life.