SEPTEMBER : POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME (PCOS) AWARENESS MONTH
CONTENTS
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects millions of women worldwide, yet it often remains undiagnosed. It is estimated that fewer than 1 in 4 women who have it know what is really happening in their body. For many women, the symptoms can be mild or vague, so they put off seeking medical help. Even so, PCOS is a serious hormonal disorder that affects not only fertility but also general health, both immediately and in the long term.
What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
PCOS is caused by a hormonal imbalance that usually appears in women of reproductive age. The ovaries produce larger amounts of androgens (hormones that are normally present at low levels in women). This overproduction has knock-on effects throughout the body:
- cycles become irregular or stop altogether,
- ovulation is delayed or does not happen,
- small cysts develop on the ovaries.
This combination can make conception difficult for many women, while PCOS also increases the risk of metabolic disorders.
What causes PCOS?
The exact cause has not been fully established. Experts agree that it is due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
The most common mechanisms involved are:
- Insulin resistance: Many women with PCOS produce more insulin, which leads to weight gain and further hormonal disruption.
- Heredity: PCOS tends to run in families.
- Body weight: Obesity does not cause PCOS, but it can make the symptoms worse.
What are the most common symptoms?
The symptoms of PCOS are not the same in every woman. Some have a mild picture, while others have more, and more pronounced, signs.
The most typical are:
- Irregular or absent periods
- Difficulty conceiving
- Acne and oily skin
- Increased hair growth on the face and body (hirsutism)
- Hair loss on the scalp (androgenetic pattern)
- Unexplained weight gain, mainly around the abdomen
- Mood swings, anxiety or depression
Complications that may be associated with PCOS
Beyond fertility, PCOS can also affect long-term health. Without early diagnosis and proper management, the risk increases for:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Hypertension
- Lipid disorders (cholesterol, triglycerides)
- Cardiovascular problems
- Endometrial hyperplasia or cancer
Diagnosing PCOS
The diagnosis is made by a gynaecologist or a reproductive medicine specialist and includes:
- A detailed medical history & clinical examination
- Transvaginal ultrasound, to assess the appearance of the ovaries and the endometrium
- Blood tests, to check hormones such as androgens, oestrogens and progesterone, as well as glucose, insulin and lipids
Treatment options
The management of PCOS is not the same for every woman. It depends on age, symptoms and the wish to have children.
- Lifestyle changes
Weight loss, a balanced diet and exercise can reduce symptoms and restore ovulation.
- Medication
Depending on your needs:
- contraceptive pills to regulate the cycle and lower androgens,
- treatment for insulin resistance,
- medication that stimulates ovulation in women who want to become pregnant.
- In vitro fertilisation (IVF)
For women who do not conceive by other means, IVF is often a safe and effective solution. Success rates in women with PCOS are high when treatment is properly planned.
Living with PCOS
PCOS does not mean that a woman cannot have a child or live a healthy life. With the right medical guidance, personalised treatment and lifestyle changes, the symptoms can be controlled and fertility can be improved.
A message to every woman
September, PCOS Awareness Month, is an opportunity to remember that information and prevention are the first step towards good health. If you have symptoms that worry you, do not ignore them. Talk to your doctor and seek the right treatment.
The "Dr. Alexandros Traianos" Centre for Reproductive Medicine & Fetal Medicine is by your side every step of the way, providing scientific guidance and human support.
📞 For appointments, call 2310 277 032 or email alexandrostraianos@gmail.com.
He supports scientific excellence in clinical practice and recognizes the possibilities offered by modern reproductive methods to couples who wish to have a child of their own.
His profileThe content of this article is for information only and does not replace a medical examination and advice.
