PCOS: irregular periods, weight gain and excess hair

Noticed your cycle getting more irregular? Or weight creeping up even though you watch what you eat? Perhaps hair growing on your face or chest, or you've been trying to conceive without success. You may be dealing with PCOS, and you are not alone.

What is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition in women of reproductive age. An estimated 12.6% of Malaysian women have PCOS, and up to 70% of them don't know it. Many only find out after seeing a doctor about fertility or period problems.

PCOS happens when the ovaries make too much androgen. This disrupts ovulation and causes a range of other symptoms.

Signs of PCOS

• Irregular or infrequent periods
• Weight gain that is hard to lose
• Severe acne or oily skin
• Excess hair on the face or body (hirsutism)
• Thinning or falling hair
• Difficulty getting pregnant

The risk is higher if a relative has PCOS, or if you are overweight or have diabetes or insulin resistance.

How PCOS is diagnosed

• A blood test for testosterone levels
• A pelvic scan to look for small cysts on the ovaries

Long-term risks

• Fertility problems from disrupted ovulation
• Endometrial cancer
• Type 2 diabetes from insulin resistance
• Heart disease

Treating and managing PCOS

There is no cure for PCOS, but it can be managed. Healthy eating and regular exercise help with weight, blood sugar and bringing periods back to normal. A doctor may prescribe the pill to regulate periods, Metformin for insulin resistance, or fertility medicine to stimulate ovulation if you are trying to conceive.

PCOS is challenging, but it is not the end of hoping for good health or motherhood. The earlier it is found, the easier it is to treat.