Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is one of the most common hormone conditions in women of reproductive age. It can cause irregular periods, acne, extra hair growth and difficulty getting pregnant, and many women do not know they have it. The good news is that PCOS can be managed, and many women live healthy lives with the right care. This guide explains the symptoms, causes, diagnosis and lifestyle tips in simple language.
Please note: This article is general information, not personal medical advice. PCOS should be diagnosed and treated by a doctor. Please do not start or stop any medicine or supplement without medical advice. Read our Medical Disclaimer.
What Is PCOS?
PCOS is a condition in which the ovaries and hormones do not work in the usual way. Women with PCOS may not release an egg every month, and they may have higher than usual levels of male hormones (androgens). Despite the name, you do not need to have many cysts to have PCOS, and having cysts alone does not mean you have it.
Common Symptoms of PCOS
Symptoms differ from woman to woman. You may have only a few of them.
Irregular Periods
Periods that are infrequent, very irregular or missing for months.
Extra Hair Growth
Thick, dark hair on the face, chest, back or stomach.
Acne and Oily Skin
Acne on the face, chest or back that does not improve easily.
Hair Thinning
Thinning hair or hair loss from the scalp.
Weight Gain
Weight gain, especially around the waist, that is hard to lose.
Dark Skin Patches
Darker, thicker skin at the neck, armpits or groin.
PCOS can also make it harder to become pregnant, because ovulation may not happen regularly. Many women with PCOS can still become pregnant, sometimes with medical help.
What Causes PCOS?
The exact cause is not fully known. Doctors believe several factors work together:
- Insulin resistance. The body does not respond well to insulin, so blood sugar and insulin levels rise. High insulin can increase male hormones.
- Higher male hormones (androgens). These can stop regular ovulation and cause acne and extra hair growth.
- Genes and family history. PCOS often runs in families.
- Excess weight can make symptoms and insulin resistance worse, but women of normal weight can have PCOS too.
How Is PCOS Diagnosed?
There is no single test for PCOS. A doctor will usually ask about your periods and symptoms, examine you, and may order tests. A diagnosis is commonly made when at least two of these three features are present, after other causes have been ruled out:
- Irregular or missing periods, meaning ovulation is not happening regularly.
- High male hormones, shown by signs such as acne and hair growth, or by a blood test.
- Polycystic-appearing ovaries on an ultrasound scan.
Your doctor may also test for thyroid problems, high prolactin, diabetes and cholesterol, because other conditions can look like PCOS. In teenagers, doctors take extra care before making the diagnosis, since irregular periods are common in the first years after periods begin.
Health Risks Linked to PCOS
PCOS is not just about periods. Over time, it can raise the risk of:
- Type 2 diabetes and high blood sugar during pregnancy
- High blood pressure and high cholesterol
- Sleep apnoea (breathing stops briefly during sleep)
- Thickening of the womb lining if periods are very infrequent
- Anxiety, low mood and depression
Regular check-ups help catch these problems early.
Lifestyle Tips That Help
Lifestyle changes are an important part of managing PCOS and are usually the first step doctors recommend.
1. Eat a Balanced, High-Fibre Diet
Choose whole grains, lentils, beans, vegetables, fruit, nuts and lean protein. Cut back on sugary drinks, sweets, white bread and fried snacks, which spike blood sugar. There is no single “PCOS diet”, so choose a plan you can follow long term. See our Nutrition & Dietetics section for more ideas.
2. Move Regularly
Exercise improves insulin sensitivity and helps your mood and sleep. Aim for about 150 minutes of moderate activity each week, such as brisk walking, plus some strength exercises. Our guide to home workouts without equipment is a good starting point.
3. Aim for a Healthy Weight
If you are overweight, losing even 5 to 10 percent of your body weight can improve periods, hormones and insulin resistance for many women. Avoid crash diets and extreme plans, which are not safe or lasting.
4. Sleep Well
Poor sleep can worsen insulin resistance and stress. Keep a regular bedtime, and tell your doctor if you snore loudly or feel very sleepy during the day.
5. Manage Stress
Stress can affect hormones and eating habits. Walking, slow breathing, prayer or quiet time, and talking with someone you trust can help. See our guide on how to reduce stress.
6. Do Not Smoke
Smoking adds to the risk of heart disease and may affect hormones, so avoiding it is especially important if you have PCOS.
Medical Treatments a Doctor May Suggest
Treatment depends on your symptoms and whether you want to become pregnant. Your doctor may talk to you about:
| Goal | Options a Doctor May Consider |
|---|---|
| Regulate periods | Hormonal medicines, such as certain contraceptive pills |
| Improve insulin resistance | Diabetes medicines such as metformin, in some women |
| Reduce acne and extra hair | Skin treatments and medicines that block male hormones |
| Help with pregnancy | Ovulation-inducing medicines and fertility care |
These medicines have side effects and are not suitable for everyone, so they should only be used under a doctor’s supervision. Ask your doctor before taking any supplement for PCOS, because the evidence for many of them is limited.
When to See a Doctor
Get urgent medical help if you have very heavy bleeding that soaks a pad every hour, or sudden severe pelvic pain, especially with dizziness, fainting or vomiting.
Book an appointment with a doctor if:
- Your periods are very irregular, or you have gone 3 months or more without one
- You have noticeable hair growth, hair thinning or acne that is not improving
- You have been trying to become pregnant for 12 months without success, or 6 months if you are over 35
- You have excessive thirst, frequent urination or unexplained tiredness
- You feel very low, anxious or distressed about your symptoms
Frequently Asked Questions
Can PCOS be cured?
There is currently no cure, but symptoms can be managed very well with lifestyle changes and, when needed, medical treatment.
Can I get pregnant if I have PCOS?
Yes, many women with PCOS become pregnant, some naturally and some with treatment. Talk to your doctor if you are planning pregnancy, as early care can help.
Do I need to be overweight to have PCOS?
No. PCOS can affect women of any weight. Weight loss helps those who are overweight, but it is not the cause in every woman.
Does PCOS go away after menopause?
The hormone problem continues, although periods stop at menopause. The risks of diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure remain, so regular check-ups stay important.
Conclusion
PCOS is common and manageable. If you suspect you have it, see a doctor for a proper diagnosis rather than relying on social media advice or unproven remedies. A balanced diet, regular activity, enough sleep, stress management and regular check-ups can make a big difference to how you feel and to your long-term health.
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Last updated: October 2026. This article has not been medically reviewed.