What is PCOS?

PCOS: what is it?

PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a common hormonal disorder. It can affect the menstrual cycle, ovulation, skin, hair growth, fertility and sometimes metabolism.

The name can be misleading: PCOS does not necessarily mean that there are real cysts on the ovaries. Rather, it's a combination of clinical and hormonal signs.

What is PCOS?

PCOS is generally associated with a hormonal imbalance, often with higher production of androgens, sometimes called "male" hormones, even though they are naturally present in small quantities in women.

This imbalance can disrupt ovulation, resulting in :

• irregular cycles
• spaced or absent periods
• rare or absent ovulation
• difficulty getting pregnant

The most common signs of PCOS

PCOS does not manifest itself in the same way in everyone. Some people have few symptoms, while others have many.

The most common signs are

• irregular periods
• no periods at all, or periods that are far apart
• difficulty in detecting ovulation
• persistent acne
• increased facial or body hair growth
• hair loss or thinning of hair
• weight gain or difficulty losing weight in some people
• difficulty conceiving

Why PCOS can also affect the metabolism

PCOS isn't just about periods or fertility. It can also be associated with insulin resistance.

This means that the body responds less well to insulin, which can promote :

• food cravings
• weight gain
• fatigue after meals
• a higher risk of pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes in the long term

Not everyone with PCOS has this profile, but it's an important point to watch out for.

Why is it called "syndrome"?

It's called a syndrome because it's not a single symptom, but a set of signs that can vary from person to person.

You can have PCOS :

• with irregular periods but little acne
• with acne and hairiness but a stable weight
• with fertility difficulties but without many other symptoms

So PCOS doesn't resemble a single typical image.

How it's diagnosed

The diagnosis is usually based on several factors, not just an ultrasound scan.

The healthcare professional may rely on :

• symptoms
• cycle regularity
• signs of androgen excess
• a hormonal blood test
• sometimes an ultrasound scan

Other causes may give similar symptoms, so a medical check-up is important.

Does PCOS mean infertility?

No.

PCOS can make ovulation more irregular, making pregnancy more difficult for some people. But this does not mean permanent infertility.

Many women with PCOS can become pregnant :

• spontaneously
• after lifestyle adjustment
• or with medical help if necessary

The key is ovulation, not just diagnosis.

Can PCOS be treated?

PCOS does not always disappear completely, but it can be effectively managed.

Treatment depends on your objectives:

• better regulation of the cycle
• improve acne or pilosity
• support fertility
• reduce metabolic risk
• improve quality of life

Depending on the case, this may include :

• regular physical activity
• adapted diet
• weight control if necessary
• hormonal contraception
• ovulation treatments
• treatment of acne or hirsutism
• blood sugar and metabolism monitoring

When to consult

It's a good idea to consult your doctor if you have :

• very irregular periods
• fewer than 8 or 9 periods a year
• an absence of periods
• significant and persistent acne
• unusual hair growth
• difficulty getting pregnant
• rapid or unexplained weight gain
• severe fatigue with suspected insulin resistance

A medical check-up can confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes.

To sum up

PCOS is a common hormonal disorder that can affect :

• the menstrual cycle
• ovulation
• the skin
• hair growth
• fertility
• metabolism

It does not manifest itself in the same way in everyone.

The most important thing is to :

• spot the signs
• not trivialize very irregular cycles
• consult a doctor for a proper assessment
• adapt treatment to symptoms and goals