What Is PCOS
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that affects how the ovaries function. It's linked to an imbalance in reproductive hormones, which can interfere with ovulation and lead to a range of symptoms beyond just irregular periods. Despite the name, not everyone with PCOS actually has cysts on their ovaries, and not everyone with ovarian cysts has PCOS. The name refers to the appearance of the ovaries on ultrasound in some cases, not a defining requirement for diagnosis.
Common Symptoms
- Irregular or missed periods One of the most common signs, caused by inconsistent or absent ovulation.
- Excess androgen levels Can lead to acne, excess facial or body hair (hirsutism), and thinning hair on the scalp.
- Weight gain Particularly around the abdomen, and often resistant to typical diet and exercise changes.
- Difficulty getting pregnant Irregular ovulation makes conceiving more difficult for many women with PCOS.
- Skin changes Dark, thickened patches of skin (acanthosis nigricans), often around the neck or underarms, can signal insulin resistance related to PCOS.
Symptoms vary significantly from person to person. Some women experience nearly all of them, while others notice only one or two subtle signs.
How PCOS Is Diagnosed
There's no single test for PCOS. Diagnosis is typically based on a combination of:
- A review of menstrual history and symptoms
- Blood tests to check hormone levels, including androgens, and to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms (such as thyroid disorders)
- A pelvic ultrasound to examine the ovaries
Most gynecologists use a set of established criteria requiring at least two of three markers: irregular ovulation, elevated androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound.
Consultations and sonar imaging are both part of our gynecology services in Salmiya.
Why It Often Goes Undiagnosed
PCOS symptoms overlap with several other conditions, and many women are told their irregular periods are "just stress" or normal variation. Because symptoms can be mild or develop gradually, it's common for years to pass before a proper diagnosis is made, sometimes only after fertility becomes a concern.
Treatment Options
Treatment for PCOS is tailored to each woman's symptoms and goals, particularly whether or not pregnancy is currently a priority.
- Lifestyle adjustments Even modest weight loss can improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate cycles for some women.
- Hormonal birth control Often used to regulate periods, reduce androgen-related symptoms like acne and excess hair growth, and lower long-term risk of uterine lining buildup.
- Metformin Commonly prescribed to improve insulin resistance, which is closely linked to PCOS in many patients.
- Fertility treatment For women trying to conceive, medications that induce ovulation are often the first step, with additional fertility support available if needed.
- Managing individual symptoms Treatments for acne, excess hair growth, or hair thinning can be addressed alongside the broader hormonal treatment plan.
When to See a Gynecologist
If your periods are consistently irregular, you're noticing symptoms like unexplained acne or excess hair growth, or you've been trying to conceive without success, it's worth getting evaluated. Early diagnosis makes it easier to manage symptoms and reduce long-term risks associated with untreated PCOS, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular issues.
Think you may have symptoms of PCOS? Book a consultation with Cedar Clinic's gynecology team for proper testing and a treatment plan suited to your goals.
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