Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

What is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder common in women of reproductive age. It affects ovary function, causing irregular periods, hormonal imbalance, and sometimes cyst formation on the ovaries. PCOS can impact fertility, metabolism, and skin health.

Causes

The exact cause is unknown, but multiple factors contribute:

• Hormonal imbalance – excess androgens (“male hormones”) lead to irregular periods, acne, and hair growth.
• Genetics – family history increases risk.
• Insulin resistance – high insulin levels stimulate androgen production.
• Inflammation – chronic low-grade inflammation can worsen symptoms.

Symptoms / Appearance

• Irregular or absent periods.
• Excess hair growth (hirsutism) on face, chest, or back.
• Acne and oily skin, especially in adulthood.
• Thinning hair or male-pattern baldness.
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight.
• Polycystic ovaries visible on ultrasound.
• Skin pigmentation issues – dark patches (acanthosis nigricans).
• Fertility difficulties.

Treatments

Medical Treatments

• Hormonal contraceptives – regulate periods and reduce androgen symptoms.
• Anti-androgen medications – reduce excess hair growth and acne.
• Metformin – improves insulin sensitivity and can aid weight management.
• Fertility treatments – clomiphene or IVF for women trying to conceive.

Aesthetic & Skin Treatments

• Acne treatments – topical retinoids, antibiotics, chemical peels.
• Hair removal – laser or electrolysis for unwanted hair.
• Pigmentation treatments – chemical peels, topical lightening agents, sunscreen.

View our treatments

Lifestyle & Home Management

• Healthy diet – low glycemic, balanced nutrition.
• Regular exercise – helps manage weight and insulin resistance.
• Stress management – yoga, meditation, or therapy.
• Weight management – even 5–10% weight loss can improve symptoms.

Prevention / Management

• No guaranteed prevention, but early lifestyle intervention can reduce severity.
• Maintain healthy weight and balanced diet.
• Regular physical activity to improve insulin sensitivity.
• Routine check-ups to monitor hormone levels, menstrual cycle, and skin changes.
• Protect skin from sun exposure to prevent pigmentation from worsening.

FAQs

Q1. Can PCOS be cured?
No, but symptoms can be managed effectively with medication, lifestyle, and aesthetic treatments.

Q2. Does PCOS always cause infertility?
Not always – many women with PCOS can conceive naturally or with treatment.

Q3. Can weight loss improve PCOS?
Yes – even modest weight loss can regulate cycles, improve insulin resistance, and reduce symptoms.

Q4. Why does PCOS cause acne and excess hair?
Excess androgens stimulate oil production and hair follicles, leading to acne and hirsutism.

Q5. When should I see a doctor?
If you have irregular periods, unexplained weight gain, excess hair, acne, or fertility issues, seek medical advice.