By Dr Sonam Chaudhary, MS OBGYN, FMAS, CIMP

This PCOS Awareness Month, I, Dr. Sonam Chaudhary, am here to talk about a common health issue that affects many women – Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or PCOS. It's a complex condition, but I want to make it easier for you to understand.

How Common is PCOS?

First off, PCOS is not rare at all. It affects quite a few women. To be more specific, between 5% and 10% of women aged 18 to 44 years have PCOS. So, if you or someone you know has it, you're definitely not alone. PCOS is common worldwide but may be more prevalent in South East Asian and Eastern Mediterranean regions. It can also occur in postmenopausal women who had PCOS symptoms during their reproductive years.

What are the Main Signs?

PCOS can show up in different ways, but some common signs include irregular periods, pelvic pain, gaining weight, pimples, excessive hair growth, and difficulty getting pregnant. When women experience these issues, doctors like me start looking into whether PCOS might be the cause.

Key Clues for Diagnosis

When I'm trying to figure out if someone has PCOS, I look for some key clues. These include high levels of certain hormones called androgens, problems with periods (like missing them or having irregular ones), and multiple cysts in the ovaries. These clues help us make a proper diagnosis.

Why Periods Matter

One of the big signs of PCOS is irregular periods. It's important to identify these problems early because they can lead to more health issues if left untreated.

Looking at the Bigger Picture

I don't just stop at the diagnosis. I believe in looking at the bigger picture. I recommend checking for heart disease risk factors in all women with PCOS, regardless of their age or weight. It's also crucial to get an accurate test called the 75g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) to check how your body handles sugar. And we don't forget about other health problems, like trouble sleeping, anxiety, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer.

Living a Healthy Life

Living a healthy life is super important when you have PCOS. It means eating right, staying active, setting achievable goals, and taking care of your mental health. All of this helps you take charge of your health.

Get Moving

Exercise is your friend, especially when you have PCOS. It's not just about losing weight; it's about being healthier overall. So, try to stay active and avoid sitting for too long.

Treatment Choices

When it comes to treating PCOS, there are different options. Some women may benefit from taking birth control pills, metformin, or other medications. We also have laser and light therapies that can help with some of the symptoms.

Fighting Weight Stigma

Weight can be a tricky issue for many women with PCOS. Society sometimes puts pressure on us to look a certain way. I'm here to tell you that it's okay to be yourself. We need to fight against weight stigma and focus on being healthy and happy, not just on the number on the scale. Support from friends and family is key!

PCOS might sound complicated, but with knowledge and support, you can handle it. I hope this guide helps you understand what PCOS is all about and how to take care of yourself. Remember, you're not alone on this journey, and there's a brighter future ahead.