What Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder in women caused by an imbalance in reproductive hormones. It is characterized by the presence of multiple small cysts in the ovaries; however, these cysts are a result of the hormonal imbalance rather than the main problem itself.PCOS typically manifests with symptoms such as irregular periods, excessive hair growth, acne, weight gain, and difficulty conceiving.
What Causes PCOS?
The exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.The main risk factors include:
Insulin resistance
Elevated androgen (male hormone) levels
Family history of PCOS or diabetes
Obesity
When hormone balance is disrupted, ovulation becomes irregular, affecting both the menstrual cycle and fertility.
Common Symptoms of PCOS
PCOS can vary greatly from woman to woman. The most common symptoms include:
Irregular or absent menstrual periods
Ovulation disorders
Excessive hair growth on the face, chin, or body (hirsutism)
Oily skin and acne
Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
Thinning hair or hair loss
Difficulty conceiving
Increased abdominal fat
If one or more of these symptoms are present, a comprehensive gynecological evaluation is necessary.
How Is PCOS Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a combination of:
Patient history and symptom assessment
Physical examination
Hormonal blood tests
Ultrasound imaging
The presence of multiple small follicles in the ovaries, along with hormonal imbalance, supports the diagnosis.At her clinic in Kartal, Op. Dr. Yeliz Akçelik performs these assessments using a comprehensive and personalized approach.
Treatment Options for PCOS
Treatment for PCOS is individualized based on the patient’s age, weight, reproductive goals, and symptoms.Common treatment options include:
Hormone-regulating medications to restore menstrual balance
Insulin-sensitizing treatments for insulin resistance
Weight management and dietary planning
Cosmetic and dermatological treatments for acne and hair growth
Ovulation induction therapies for women seeking pregnancy
Regular follow-up is essential.If left untreated, PCOS can increase the risk of diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and endometrial cancer.
PCOS Should Not Be Ignored
PCOS is not limited to menstrual irregularities — it can have long-term effects on a woman’s overall health.Early diagnosis and proper management are crucial for preventing complications and maintaining hormonal balance.
Op. Dr. Yeliz Akçelik provides evidence-based, personalized, and result-oriented treatments for PCOS, helping women regain control of their reproductive and metabolic health.
Don’t neglect your health — regular gynecological check-ups are key to maintaining your hormonal balance and ovarian function.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can PCOS be completely cured?No. PCOS is a chronic condition, but its symptoms can be effectively managed.
2. Can women with PCOS get pregnant?Yes. With appropriate treatment and ovulation induction, pregnancy is possible.
3. Does losing weight help with PCOS?Yes. Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight supports hormonal balance and improves symptoms.
4. Does PCOS only affect overweight women?No. PCOS can also occur in women of normal or low weight — obesity is just one of several risk factors.
5. Is increased hair growth a symptom of PCOS?Yes. Elevated androgen levels often cause unwanted hair growth.
6. Are birth control pills used to treat PCOS?Yes. They are commonly prescribed to regulate menstrual cycles and balance hormones.
7. Does PCOS affect sexual life?It can. Some women may experience low libido due to hormonal imbalance.
8. Does having ovarian cysts mean I have PCOS?Not necessarily. The presence of cysts alone is not enough for diagnosis — hormonal and clinical findings must also support it.
9. Can PCOS be diagnosed at a young age?Yes. Symptoms can appear as early as adolescence.
10. Is PCOS a progressive condition?If left unmanaged, it can progress and lead to metabolic complications such as insulin resistance and diabetes.
