Hormonal health

PCOS Symptoms, Complications, and Treatment Options

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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age. It results from an imbalance in reproductive hormones and is usually detected through ultrasound imaging combined with clinical symptoms.

PCOS can lead to irregular periods, difficulty getting pregnant, and other health concerns if left untreated. Many women wonder: “Does PCOS always cause infertility? Is it dangerous? Can it be managed naturally?” — in this article, you’ll find clear answers.

Symptoms of PCOS

PCOS symptoms vary from woman to woman in type and severity. The most common include:

  • Irregular or missed menstrual periods
  • Excess hair growth on the face, chin, and body (hirsutism)
  • Acne on the face, chest, or back
  • Hair thinning or hair loss with a male-pattern distribution
  • Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
  • Infertility and problems with ovulation
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Some teenagers first discover PCOS because of acne or delayed periods. Recognising symptoms early helps with faster diagnosis and better management.

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Diagnostic Criteria for PCOS (Rotterdam Criteria)

Doctors usually diagnose PCOS if two out of three criteria are met (after ruling out other conditions):

1. Ovulation disorders

  • Infrequent or irregular menstrual cycles.
  • Difficulty predicting ovulation.

2. Hyperandrogenism (excess male hormones)

  • Clinically: hirsutism, acne, or hair loss.
  • Biochemically: elevated androgen levels on blood tests.

3. Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound

  • More than 12 follicles in one ovary.
  • Or increased ovarian volume.
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Having two of the three criteria is enough for a PCOS diagnosis, but it must be confirmed by a healthcare professional.

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Dive deeper

In Episode 4 of our podcast Mech 3ayb, we debunk myths and explain PCOS with medical experts in plain, taboo-free language.

Watch the episode here:

Complications of PCOS

If untreated, PCOS can lead to serious health problems, especially in women with obesity or insulin resistance:

  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Gestational diabetes during pregnancy
  • High blood pressure and heart disease
  • High cholesterol and triglycerides
  • Metabolic syndrome
  • Infertility and reproductive challenges
  • Anxiety and depression
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Early diagnosis and consistent medical follow-up reduce complications.

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Causes of PCOS

The exact cause is still unclear, but certain factors increase the risk:
  • Family history of PCOS or related disorders
  • Insulin resistance or diabetes
  • Obesity and excess weight
  • Chronic low-grade inflammation (suggested in recent studies)

Treatment for PCOS

There is no “cure” for PCOS, but symptoms and risks can be managed effectively.

1. Lifestyle Modifications

2. Medications

3. Surgery

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Yoga and relaxation techniques can help reduce pain and improve quality of life.

Discover our program 14 Yoga Sessions for Better Sexual Health for practical support.

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FAQs About about PCOS

1. Is PCOS dangerous?

PCOS itself isn’t life-threatening, but it increases the risk of diabetes, infertility, and cardiovascular disease if untreated.

2. Does PCOS always cause infertility?

No. While PCOS can make pregnancy harder due to irregular ovulation, many women conceive naturally or with medical help.

3. Can PCOS be treated naturally?

There is no permanent “natural cure,” but lifestyle changes — diet, exercise, supplements — can significantly reduce symptoms.

4. Can teenagers develop PCOS?

Yes. PCOS often begins in adolescence, presenting with irregular cycles, acne, or weight gain.

5. What’s the difference between PCOS and a simple ovarian cyst?

PCOS is a chronic hormonal condition, while a simple cyst is usually temporary and often disappears on its own.

In Conclusion

PCOS is a chronic but manageable condition. With early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and medical treatment, women can reduce symptoms, protect fertility, and improve overall health.

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