PCOS: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment Options

What Is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions in women of reproductive age. It affects how the ovaries work and can influence your menstrual cycle, skin, weight, fertility and long-term metabolic health. The good news is that PCOS is very manageable. With the right care, most women find that their symptoms improve and their concerns about fertility can be addressed.

PCOS is diagnosed when at least two of three features are present: irregular or absent ovulation, signs of higher-than-usual male hormones (androgens), and polycystic-appearing ovaries on an ultrasound. Importantly, you do not need to have visible cysts to have PCOS, and having a few follicles on a scan does not automatically mean you have the condition.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms vary widely from one woman to another, and some women have only mild signs. The most frequently reported symptoms include:

• Irregular periods — cycles that are infrequent, unpredictable or absent
• Difficulty conceiving, because ovulation may not happen regularly
• Excess hair growth (hirsutism) on the face, chest or back
• Acne or oily skin that persists beyond the teenage years
• Hair thinning or hair loss from the scalp
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Darkened patches of skin, often around the neck or underarms

If you notice several of these signs together, it is worth discussing them with a gynecologist rather than assuming they are unrelated.

What Causes PCOS?

The exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood, but it appears to result from a combination of factors working together.

Hormonal imbalance

Many women with PCOS produce slightly higher levels of androgens. This can interfere with the regular release of an egg each month and contribute to acne and excess hair growth.

Insulin resistance

A large number of women with PCOS have insulin resistance, meaning the body does not respond efficiently to insulin. Higher insulin levels can increase androgen production and make weight management more challenging.

Genetics

PCOS often runs in families. If your mother or sister has PCOS, you may be more likely to develop it, although having a family history does not make it certain.

Treatment Options

There is no single cure for PCOS, but its symptoms can be treated effectively. Treatment is always tailored to your individual goals — whether that is regulating your cycle, improving your skin, managing weight or planning a pregnancy.

Lifestyle measures

For many women, gradual changes in diet and physical activity are a helpful first step. Even a modest reduction in weight can improve insulin sensitivity, support more regular cycles and ease other symptoms.

Medications

Depending on your needs, treatment may include hormonal medication to regulate periods, medication to help with ovulation when trying to conceive, treatments that address insulin resistance, or options to reduce excess hair and acne. Your gynecologist will explain the benefits and suitability of each option for you.

Fertility support

If you are trying to become pregnant, specific treatments can help encourage ovulation. Many women with PCOS conceive successfully with appropriate guidance and monitoring.

Why Early Care Matters

Beyond day-to-day symptoms, PCOS is linked with longer-term health considerations such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. Regular check-ups allow these risks to be monitored and managed early. Seeking advice does not mean something is seriously wrong — it simply helps you stay ahead of your health.

When to See a Gynecologist

Consider booking an appointment if you have irregular or missed periods, are struggling to conceive, or are troubled by symptoms such as excess hair growth or persistent acne. A gynecologist can confirm the diagnosis through a simple assessment and create a personalised plan. PCOS is a manageable condition, and with the right support, you can take confident control of your health and wellbeing.