Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder affecting ovulation, metabolism, and long-term women’s health.
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What Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine and reproductive disorder affecting women of reproductive age.
Although often associated with the ovaries, it is a complex hormonal and metabolic condition involving irregular periods, elevated androgen levels, and multiple small ovarian follicles.
Why Does PCOS Impact More Than Just Reproductive Health and What Is It?
Because the symptoms vary significantly from person to person a phenomenon often referred to as the “PCOS spectrum” it is frequently underdiagnosed or mismanaged.
The Three Pillars of Diagnosis (Rotterdam Criteria)
Medical professionals generally diagnose PCOS based on the presence of at least two of the following three criteria: irregular or absent periods, clinical or biochemical signs of high androgens (such as excess hair growth or acne), and polycystic ovaries as seen on an ultrasound.
This means that a woman can have PCOS without actually having “cysts” on her ovaries, and conversely, having small follicles on the ovaries doesn’t automatically mean she has the syndrome. Understanding these nuances is critical for an accurate evaluation.
Symptoms and Conditions
How Hormone Disruption Drives PCOS
At the heart of PCOS is a disruption in the communication between the brain’s pituitary gland and the ovaries. Normally, the pituitary gland releases hormones (FSH and LH) that signal a follicle to grow and release an egg. In PCOS, the levels of LH are often chronically high, while FSH is relatively low.
This prevents follicles from maturing and releasing eggs, leading to a build-up of immature follicles (the “cysts”) and an overproduction of testosterone.
Insulin Resistance: The Metabolic Engine
While PCOS is a reproductive disorder, it is also a metabolic one. Up to 70% of women with PCOS have insulin resistance, meaning their body’s cells don’t respond effectively to insulin. To compensate, the pancreas produces even more insulin. High levels of insulin are problematic because they directly stimulate the ovaries to produce more androgens and can lead to weight gain, particularly in the abdominal area.
This link between metabolism and hormones is why managing diet and blood sugar is a cornerstone of PCOS care.
Diagnosis and Evaluation
Genetic and Environmental Factors
The exact cause of PCOS remains unknown, but researchers believe it is a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers. If your mother or sister has PCOS, your risk of developing it is significantly higher.
Additionally, exposure to certain environmental toxins and a sedentary lifestyle can exacerbate the underlying hormonal tendencies.
Treatment and Care
Impact on Fertility and Ovulation
PCOS is the most common cause of “ovulatory infertility.” Because the hormonal signals are scrambled, the ovaries do not release an egg every month.
For women trying to conceive, this creates a significant barrier. However, with the right medical support and lifestyle adjustments, most women with PCOS can achieve a healthy pregnancy.
Managing the Dermatological Symptoms
High androgen levels cause emotionally distressing symptoms in many women with PCOS. Excess facial and body hair, persistent adult acne, and scalp hair thinning are common and reflect an underlying hormonal imbalance rather than cosmetic concerns. Effective treatment focuses on correcting the hormonal cause, not just managing visible symptoms.
Long-term Health Risks
PCOS is a lifelong condition that requires ongoing management beyond reproductive years. Chronic inflammation and metabolic changes increase the risk of metabolic syndrome, including high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, and heart disease. Infrequent periods also raise the risk of endometrial hyperplasia and, if untreated, endometrial cancer.
The Psychological and Emotional Toll
PCOS can affect appearance, fertility, and energy levels, increasing the risk of anxiety and depression. Body image concerns related to weight gain and hair growth are common.
Addressing mental health alongside medical treatment is essential for comprehensive PCOS care.
Wellness and Prevention
The Role of Lifestyle in PCOS Management
Because insulin resistance plays such a massive role in PCOS, lifestyle is often the most powerful “medicine” available. Simple changes in how you eat, move, and manage stress can significantly lower insulin levels and restore hormonal balance.
A diet focused on low-glycemic foods and regular physical activity can often restore regular ovulation without the need for intensive drugs.
How Does Liv Hospital Treat PCOS Holistically?
At Liv Hospital, PCOS is approached as a whole-body condition rather than a single gynecological issue.
Our multidisciplinary team combines advanced endocrine testing with personalized treatment plans to address fertility, metabolic, and dermatological concerns.
Through modern diagnostics, tailored nutrition, and wellness programs, we support patients in regaining hormonal balance and overall health.
Send us all your questions or requests, and our expert team will assist you.
Yes. Although less common, PCOS can be diagnosed if other criteria such as high androgen levels or polycystic ovaries are present.
No. The “cysts” in PCOS are immature follicles, not true ovarian cysts.
No. Weight loss can improve symptoms and ovulation but does not eliminate the underlying condition.
No. Lean women can also have PCOS and experience hormonal and metabolic issues.
Yes. Many women conceive naturally, and effective treatments are available if needed.
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