Overview
PCOS is a hormonal condition in which the ovaries produce excess male-type hormones, causing irregular periods, acne, excess facial hair and difficulty ovulating — a leading, treatable cause of female infertility. It also raises long-term risk of diabetes. Weight management and targeted treatment restore cycles and fertility for many women.
Symptoms
- Irregular, infrequent or absent periods
- Difficulty getting pregnant
- Excess hair on the face, chest or abdomen
- Persistent acne
- Weight gain, especially around the waist
- Thinning scalp hair
- Dark velvety skin patches at the neck or armpits
Causes & risk factors
- Hormonal imbalance with excess androgens
- Insulin resistance driving the hormone disturbance
- Family history
- Weight gain worsening the cycle
Treatment & self-care
Even modest weight loss (5-10%) can restart regular ovulation; doctors add treatments tailored to your goal — cycle-regulating medicines, ovulation-stimulating treatment for those trying to conceive, or measures for hair and skin symptoms. Periodic screening for diabetes and cholesterol protects long-term health. PCOS is managed, not cured, and most women with it can have children.
See a doctor urgently if
- Fewer than eight or nine periods a year
- No period for three months or more (not pregnant)
- Trying to conceive for over a year without success
- Rapidly increasing facial hair or deepening voice