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Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder commonly found in women of reproductive age. Misinformation abounds about this syndrome. Let's look into the most common myths and facts about PCOS. 


First, let's learn what the signs of PCOS are. Generally, PCOS has the following symptoms: 

  1. Irregular periods - Infrequent, irregular or prolonged menstrual cycles
  2. Excess androgen - Higher levels of male hormones
  3. Polycystic ovaries - Enlarged ovaries and follicles surrounding the eggs

Myth: You Must Have Polycystic Ovaries

Fact: You can have PCOS and not have polycystic ovaries. You can have polycystic ovaries for some other reason besides PCOS. Contrary to popular belief, these events are not mutually exclusive. 


Myth: If You Have Irregular Periods, Then You Have PCOS

Fact: There are many factors that women's periods and any one of them can cause irregular periods. Things like stress, extreme dieting, overexercising, several diseases, and many more can cause irregular periods. Please get in touch with your OBGN if you are having irregular periods immediately. 


Myth: PCOS Affects Overweight Women Only

Fact: It is true that women with PCOS may be overweight and being overweight worsens your symptoms. But PCOS affects women of all shapes and sizes. Not all overweight women have PCOS. This kind of thinking can lead to misdiagnoses. On the other hand, slender women can be misdiagnosed even if they have PCOS. Blood tests, pelvic exams and ultrasounds can help the doctor correctly diagnose this disorder. 


Myth: You Can't Get Pregnant with PCOS

Fact: PCOS is a manageable fertility issue. Yes getting pregnant with PCOS is difficult but it is not impossible. Your fertility doctor can guide you on your pregnancy journey. If you don't want to be pregnant, make sure you use contraception. 


Myth: Losing Weight Makes PCOS Go Away

Fact: Unfortunately, there is no cure for PCOS but you can manage your symptoms. Eating healthy, weight loss, and regular exercise help in balancing your hormone levels. 


Myth: PCOS is a Rare Condition.

Fact: PCOS is a fairly common condition affecting millions of women throughout the world. So please get correctly diagnosed as soon as possible so that the symptoms can be handled. 


While there is no magic solution for PCOS, there is a way for women to live their lives with PCOS as long as women know which information is fact and which is a myth. 


The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.

 

Here are some additional resources

5 Myths About Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) - University of Pennsylvania Medicine

Myths About Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) - Atlanta Center for Reproductive Medicine

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment - Healthline

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) - Mayo Clinic

12 Common Myths About PCOS — and the Facts Every Woman Should Know - Everyday Health

5 Superfoods To Add To A PCOS Diet - NDTV Food

Diet For PCOD For Indian Women: What to Eat and What to Avoid - MFine

Diet for PCOS - Dr Lal PathLabs

Nutritionists reveal the best diet plan and health tips for PCOD - Times of India

PCOS Diet - OnePoint Nutrition

The Best Diet for Managing PCOS Symptoms - Verywell Health

These Are the Foods to Eat with PCOS (And Some to Avoid!) - The Marion Gluck Clinic