Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Frequently Asked Questions

Guest Authors: Queen Uduak Affiang, MBBS               

                 David, Abasifreke Nse, RN, RM, BNSC, ACLS, BLS.

Medical Reviewer: Azuka Chinweokwu Ezeike, MBBS, FWACS, FMCOG, MSc (PH)

Introduction

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition in which the ovaries produce excess androgens, also called male hormones. This can affect ovulation, menstruation, skin, weight, and fertility.

PCOS is a global public health concern. About 1 in 10 women of reproductive age are affected, and up to 70% of cases remain undiagnosed.

PCOS often becomes noticeable when a woman has difficulty getting pregnant, irregular periods, or symptoms related to hormone imbalance. 

Because it is widely misunderstood, this article answers common questions about PCOS.

What Causes PCOS?

The exact cause of PCOS is unknown. It is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including insulin resistance and hormonal imbalance.

How Common is PCOS?

Approximately 1 in 10 women aged 15–45 years have PCOS. If you have PCOS, you are not alone.

What are the Symptoms of PCOS?

PCOS is diagnosed based on a combination of symptoms. These may include:

• Irregular or absent menstruation
  
  
• Excess facial or body hair
  
  
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
  
  
• Acne (pimples) or oily skin
  
  
• Frontal hair thinning or balding
  
  
• Difficulty getting pregnant
  
  
• Acanthosis nigricans, which are dark skin patches on the neck, armpits, or groin
  
  

These symptoms alone do not always confirm PCOS.

How is PCOS Diagnosed?

PCOS is diagnosed using the Rotterdam Criteria. Two of the following three features must be present after excluding other causes:

• Ovulatory dysfunction
   Irregular or absent menstruation.
  
  
• Evidence of excess androgens
   -Clinical signs such as acne, excess hair growth, or hair loss.
   -Laboratory tests showing elevated androgen levels.
  
  
• Polycystic ovary structure on ultrasound
   Many small follicles in the ovary, usually 12 or more per ovary, or increased ovarian volume above 10 ml. These follicles may appear like cysts on ultrasound, which is why the condition is called Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
  
  

Does Having Ovarian Cysts mean I have PCOS?

No. Some women have ovarian cysts without PCOS, and some women with PCOS do not have cysts. Diagnosis must be based on the full clinical criteria.

Does Weight Cause PCOS?

No. PCOS can occur in women of any body size. Some women with PCOS are lean, which shows that excess weight is not the root cause, although weight can influence symptoms.

Can PCOS be Cured?

There is no permanent cure for PCOS at present. However, it can be effectively managed.

How is PCOS Managed?

Treatment depends on a woman’s symptoms and fertility goals.Management may include:

1. Lifestyle changes
    Healthy eating and moderate-intensity exercise for 150–300 minutes per week. This improves insulin response and supports weight control.
   
   
2. Medical treatment
   
   
   • Metformin or similar drugs to improve insulin response
     
     
   • Medications to reduce excess hair growth or acne
     
     
   • Drugs to stimulate ovulation, such as clomiphene citrate
     
     
   • Hormonal therapy to regulate menstruation
     
     
3. Surgery in selected cases
    Procedures such as ovarian drilling may help induce ovulation.
   
   
4. Assisted reproductive techniques
    Options like in vitro fertilization when needed.
   
   
5. Cosmetic treatments
    Laser therapy, waxing, or electrolysis for excess hair.
   

Does Losing Weight help PCOS?

Yes. Even a 5–10% reduction in weight can improve menstrual regularity, ovulation, hormone balance, and insulin sensitivity in women who are overweight.

Can Women with PCOS Get Pregnant?

Yes. Some women with PCOS conceive naturally. Others may need medication or fertility treatments to improve ovulation.

Is PCOS Dangerous?

PCOS is not dangerous. however, if poorly managed, PCOS may increase the risk of:

• Type 2 diabetes
  
  
• High blood pressure
  
  
• Metabolic syndrome
  
  
• Sleep apnea
  
  
• Depression or anxiety
  
  
• Endometrial (womb) hyperplasia or cancer
  
  

Regular medical follow-up and good lifestyle habits can greatly reduce these risks.

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Conclusion

PCOS is common and manageable. It does not define your fertility or your future. With early diagnosis, healthy lifestyle habits, and appropriate medical care, women with PCOS can live healthy and fulfilling lives

Sources:

• Shukla A, Rasquin LI, Anastasopoulou C. Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 [cited 2026 Feb 22]. Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459251/ PubMed PMID: 29083730.
• World Health Organization. Polycystic ovary syndrome [Internet]. [cited 2026 Feb 22]. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/polycystic-ovary-syndrome

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this website is for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Published February 23, 2026