Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormone condition in women of childbearing age. It causes irregular or missed periods, extra hair growth and acne, and it is a common reason for difficulty getting pregnant. The ovaries may contain many small fluid sacs. PCOS cannot be cured, but symptoms can be well controlled; it raises the long-term risk of diabetes, so weight and blood sugar should be checked.
Symptoms
- Irregular periods, very few periods, or no periods
- Extra hair on the face, chest or belly
- Acne and oily skin
- Weight gain, especially around the belly
- Thinning hair on the head
- Difficulty getting pregnant
- Dark, thick skin on the neck or under the arms
Causes
- The exact cause is not known
- Higher levels of male-type hormones (androgens)
- The body does not respond well to insulin (insulin resistance)
- It often runs in families
- Being overweight makes symptoms worse
Prevention
- PCOS cannot be prevented, but a healthy lifestyle reduces symptoms
- Keep a healthy weight — losing even a small amount of weight can bring back regular periods
- Eat less sugar, sweets and white bread; eat more vegetables, lentils and beans
- Be active for at least 30 minutes on most days
- Have blood sugar and blood pressure checked regularly
Treatment
- Weight control, healthy eating and regular exercise — the first step
- Hormonal pills to regulate periods and reduce extra hair and acne — prescribed by a doctor
- Metformin in some women to help insulin work better — prescribed by a doctor
- Fertility medicines such as clomifene for women trying to get pregnant — only under a gynaecologist
- Creams or hair removal for extra hair, and acne treatment
- Do not take hormone medicines without a doctor
Common questions
Can I get pregnant if I have PCOS?
Yes. Many women with PCOS get pregnant, sometimes after losing some weight or with fertility treatment from a gynaecologist.
Do the cysts need surgery?
Usually not. The small sacs in PCOS are not dangerous growths and do not need to be removed. Treatment focuses on hormones, weight and periods.