Myths About Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome – PCOS is a common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age. The commonly attributed reason is the high-level male hormones(androgens) in females, preventing ovaries from releasing the eggs. Women with PCOS face issues in conceiving. They experience irregular menstrual cycles. After the first menstrual period, PCOS can be  seen in females as early as at the age of 11 or 12. Let us know the facts and myths about Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

PCOS Myths and Facts

PCOS has become a misery in women in their reproductive age. However, it is not impossible to get treated. There are several myths around PCOS, which lead to confusion and wrong treatments. If the conditions are not well-understood, it can lead to adverse effects. Therefore, as a PCOS patient, it is important to overcome the myths and understand how to live effectively even with PCOS.

# Myth 1: You must have cysts on ovaries to have PCOS – Polycystic ovary syndrome

Having cysts on ovaries does not mean it’s PCOS. The name cystic ovary is misleading. Many women who have PCOS do not have cysts on their ovaries.

Fact:

PCOS is diagnosed with an excess of androgen, irregular menstruation, or multiple follicles.

# Myth 2: You can’t get pregnant if you have PCOS syndrome

A common myth in women leads to depression is that they cannot get pregnant if diagnosed with PCOS.

Fact:

The PCOS affects the ovary’s ability to release fertile eggs to get pregnant. But this is not eh end. There are fertility treatments that can help to get pregnant. Treatments like follicle-stimulating drugs can help patients with PCOS to get pregnant. So, next time someone tells you that you cannot get pregnant with PCOS, do not get disheartened. Consult a fertility specialist and do not believe rumors and trust myths.

Myth 3 #: You have PCOS of your menstrual cycle is irregular

An irregular menstrual cycle is a confirmed symptom of PCOS.

Fact:

Irregular menstrual cycle is just one of the symptoms of PCOS. However, the irregular menstrual cycle can be for various reasons like pelvic inflammation, over-exercising, thyroid, extreme dieting, breastfeeding mothers can experience irregular periods.

Myth 4#: You don’t have to pay attention to PCOS if you have no plans to get pregnant

If you don’t have any plans to conceive and get pregnant, it is okay to live with PCOS without any treatment.

Fact:

PCOS is not just an obstacle to getting pregnant. It impacts the overall wellness of a woman in the log-run. Having PCOS can lead to anxiety depression. This, in turn, can lead to type 2 diabetes. Living with PCOS can also lead to endometrial cancer.

Myth 5#: Everyone with PCOS is overweight or obese

There is a notion that every fat lady/ obese/overweight lady will suffer from PCOS

Fact:

PCOS was diagnosed among lean ladies also. However, doctors advised it to maintain an ideal weight to maintain good health.

Can PCOS Cause Weight Loss?

PCOS by itself may not cause weight gain. PCOS is a syndrome concerned with fertility. However, living with PCOS may lead to other complications like poor metabolism, type 2 diabetes due to anxiety and depression etc. Therefore, maintaining ideal body weight is important.

How to Cure PCOS Permanently?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for PCOS. PCOS can be treated but not cured. Obese ladies, when they lose weight, their metabolism improves and may balance their hormones. The treatment depends on the intensity of the symptoms and the range of symptoms.

What causes PCOS?

PCOS is a fertility disorder in females. The exact cause is unknown and primarily genetic. It may run in some families. Higher levels of androgens (male hormones) cause the prevention of the release of ovaries. Sometimes PCOS develops along with puberty and sometimes at later times. However, some factors may play a predominant role.
  • Excess insulin: Excess insulin may increase androgen production, causing ovulation problems.
  • Low inflammation: Women with PCOS will have a low inflammation which may stimulate the polycystic ovaries to produce androgen.
  • Genetic/ Hereditary: The PCOS may run in some families and be hereditary.
  • Excess androgens: The abnormal androgen level may result in hirsutism and acne.

Are bilateral Polycystic are Dangerous?

The bilateral polycystic ovaries are not dangerous or fatal. However, if not treated can cause more problems.

PCOS with Irregular Periods

PCOS can occur in females with regular periods also. They may have regular menstrual cycles but have a high androgens (male hormone) level. In medical language, this is termed “Hyperandrogenism”. The periods may be regular, but ovulation may not be correct. In such cases, there may not be premenstrual symptoms like menstrual cramps, soreness, tender breasts etc.

Conclusion:

PCOS has to be treated timely manner with a fertility doctor. Knowing the facts and myths about Polycystic Ovary Syndrome will help to reduce anxiety and depression. Hence, myths should be ignored. PCOS can be treated, and women with such hormonal imbalance can also conceive and live a happy life.