PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a common hormone condition that affects how a woman's ovaries work. It can cause irregular or missed periods, excess hair growth, acne and weight gain. The name comes from the many small fluid-filled sacs that can develop on the ovaries, but you do not need to have these cysts to have PCOS.
The signs to look for
- Periods that are irregular, very far apart, or stop altogether
- Excess hair on the face, chest or back
- Acne that is hard to clear
- Weight gain, especially around the middle
- Thinning hair on the scalp
- Difficulty falling pregnant
What causes it
The exact cause is not fully understood, but PCOS is linked to a hormone imbalance and to how the body responds to insulin. Many women with PCOS make more male-type hormones than usual, which drives the hair growth and acne. It also tends to run in families, so if your mother or sister has it, your own risk is higher.
How it is managed
There is no cure for PCOS, but it can be managed well. Lifestyle changes like regular exercise and a balanced diet help a lot, especially where weight is a factor. Medication can regulate periods, reduce hair growth and support fertility. Because PCOS raises the long-term risk of things like diabetes, it is worth managing with a doctor rather than ignoring.
When to see a gynaecologist
If your periods are irregular, you are struggling with acne or excess hair, or you have been trying to fall pregnant for a year without success, a gynaecologist can check whether PCOS is the reason and build a plan with you.
Find a gynaecologist near you to talk through your symptoms.