Busting some common myths about PCOS in women and its impact on women’s health –

Myth: PCOS is a rare condition.

Fact: PCOS is one of the most common hormone and endocrine disorders, affecting nearly 1 in 10 women of childbearing age. Studies suggest that about 20-25% of Indian women suffer from the condition. It is also one of the most common causes for female infertility.

Myth: PCOS only affects women who are overweight.

Fact: While excess weight and obesity are usually considered symptoms of PCOS, the disorder can affect those in a healthy BMI and weight range as well. Lean PCOS accounts for nearly 20-30% of cases diagnosed and can sometimes be tougher to detect.

Myth: If your periods are irregular, you have PCOS.

Fact: PCOS is just one of the many causes for irregular periods, and irregular periods are just one of the PCOS signs and symptoms. Menstrual health can be affected by various factors such as thyroid disorders, viral illnesses, weight loss or gain, medications, stress and lifestyle factors, to name just a few! If your period cycle has been irregular, you have missed more than one period or notice changes in menstrual flow, it’s always a good idea to consult your gynecologist at the earliest.

Myth: PCOS and PCOD are the same thing.

Fact: Although, the terms are often used interchangeably, and the symptoms of PCOD in females can mirror those arising due to PCOS, they are not exactly the same thing. Polycystic Ovarian Disease or PCOD, as its name suggests, is a disease while PCOS is a syndrome. In PCOD, the ovaries release eggs that are immature or partially mature (as opposed to mature eggs released during a normal menstrual cycle), which may develop into cysts and cause swelling of the ovaries.

Myth: All women with PCOS develop abnormal or excessive hair growth i.e hirutism.

Fact: Although not physically harmful, abnormal or excessive hair growth on the face, back, etc. can definitely affect one’s self esteem! Hirutism and male-pattern hair growth is a common sign of PCOS in women, however, not all women affected by PCOS will have this symptom. Ethnicity, age, skin type and certain comorbidities are some of the factors that affect prevalence.

Myth: If I have PCOS, I can never have children.

Fact: Conception and pregnancy is definitely possible with PCOS. The underlying issues that may cause problems with ovulation can be tackled, improving your chances of getting pregnant. Your doctor can help you with things you can do before getting pregnant as well, to help ensure that you have a healthy pregnancy.

Myth: I can never lose weight, with PCOS.

Fact: While PCOS can make it harder to lose weight, a combination of doctor-prescribed medication and the addition of healthy habits, such as daily exercise and balanced high-fiber meals, can help you keep your weight under control. Although, it can be frustrating, it definitely isn’t impossible[VM1] . PCOS can also lead to insulin resistance making it tougher to shed the kilos, therefore it always helps to consult your healthcare provider and a dietitian to create a PCOS-friendly diet and workout plan to help on the journey. Be kind to yourself and patient with your progress.

A brief look at PCOS treatment for better health management

PCOS signs and symptoms can be treated and managed. If you are facing menstrual irregularities and/or other symptoms, do consult your doctor for a detailed diagnosis. If diagnosed, regular check-ups are essential to monitor the condition and tackle long-term effects and risks of possible PCOS-related conditions. Lifestyle changes are usually recommended when dealing with this health condition. For instance, dietary modifications may be prescribed since people with PCOS often deal with other health conditions such as inflammation and insulin resistance. Weight loss (if overweight) can help with long-term symptoms of PCOS, aid in curbing risk of obesity, and help bring one into a healthy BMI range. In fact, it is said that weight loss of just 5% can help with PCOS, if one is obese or overweight. Regular exercise, too, can help balance hormone levels, aid in weight management and can positively impact reproductive health.

Do remember, if you are feeling out of sorts, you aren’t alone! Speaking to a doctor about possible causes and discussing management/treatment options will help you regain better health and an overall sense of wellbeing.

Disclaimer: The information mentioned in this document is only suggestive /for patient education and shall not be considered as a substitute for doctor’s advice or recommendations from Abbott. Please consult your doctor for more information.