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Your PCOS Guide 101: Diagnosis, Causes, and Ways to Treat It

ByTarin Hussain
Updated: 13 Feb 2026, 3:30 pm
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Shobha Gupta, IVF and Infertility Specialist, Mother's Lap IVF Centre

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a frequent hormonal condition that affects many women during their reproductive years. It leads to imbalances in reproductive hormones, often causing irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, and challenges with fertility.

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Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects how your ovaries function and how your body maintains hormonal balance. If you are dealing with irregular periods, sudden weight changes, acne that does not go away, or trouble with ovulation, you have probably already felt how confusing and frustrating it can be.
In this article:

You may have wondered why your body is not behaving the way it should or why things feel so out of control, even when you are trying your best. That is exactly how many women first come face to face with PCOS. The good part is that PCOS is manageable. Once you understand what is happening inside your body and why certain symptoms appear, things start to make sense.

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) occurs when the ovaries produce higher-than-normal levels of androgens. These are male hormones that are typically present in lower concentrations in women. This hormonal imbalance can disrupt the regular release of eggs, leading to irregular periods or even missed cycles.

Small fluid-filled sacs called follicles may form on the ovaries because ovulation does not happen regularly. These follicles are not harmful or painful, and it is important to note that the term “polycystic” does not mean cysts must be present to diagnose the condition.

PCOS often develops after puberty, with most people noticing symptoms in their 20s or 30s, especially when trying to conceive.



What are the Different Types of PCOS

PCOS is not the same for everyone. It can show up in a few different forms based on underlying factors:

  • Insulin-resistant PCOS: The most common type, in which the body struggles to use insulin effectively. Higher insulin levels can increase androgen production, leading to symptoms such as abdominal weight gain.
  • Inflammatory PCOS: In this type, low-grade chronic inflammation plays a role. It can be detected by markers such as elevated C-reactive protein levels and may cause fatigue, headaches, or skin rashes.
  • Adrenal PCOS: In this less common form, stress triggers the adrenal glands to overproduce certain androgens, raising levels of hormones linked to stress responses.

What are the Symptoms of PCOS

The most frequent PCOS symptoms include:

  • Irregular periods: Cycles that are very long, often over 40 days, missed periods, or unusually heavy bleeding when periods occur.
  • Excess hair growth (hirsutism): Unwanted hair on the face, chest, arms, or abdomen, affecting up to 70 per cent of people with PCOS.
  • Persistent acne: On the face, back, or chest that continues beyond the teenage years and resists standard treatments.
  • Weight gain or difficulty losing weight: Obesity is present in 40 to 80 per cent of cases.
  • Darkened skin patches (acanthosis nigricans): Commonly seen in neck folds, armpits, or groin.
  • Thinning hair or hair loss: Hair on the scalp may become thinner, especially around the hairline or crown.
  • Skin tags: Small, harmless growths in areas like the neck or armpits.
  • Fertility challenges: Infrequent or absent ovulation makes PCOS one of the leading causes of female infertility.
Some people may not notice any obvious symptoms until they try to conceive or experience gradual weight changes.

What Are the Main Causes and Risk Factors of PCOS?

The exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood, but several factors are known to play a role. Genetics seem important, as the risk is higher if close biological relatives have the condition. Other contributing factors include:

  • Elevated androgens: Higher levels of male hormones can prevent regular egg release and promote the formation of ovarian follicles.
  • Insulin resistance: The body struggles to process sugar effectively, leading to higher insulin levels that stimulate more androgen production and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.
  • Chronic low-grade inflammation: Ongoing inflammation can trigger the ovaries to produce excess androgens and worsen symptoms.
  • Obesity: Excess body weight can worsen insulin resistance and hormone imbalances, intensifying PCOS symptoms.
Stress can also influence certain forms of PCOS, particularly adrenal-related types.

How Is PCOS Diagnosed?

There is no single test to diagnose PCOS. Doctors generally follow the Rotterdam criteria, which require at least two of the following three features:

  • Irregular or absent periods.
  • Signs of high androgens, either through symptoms like excess hair or acne, or confirmed by blood tests.
  • Ovaries appear enlarged with multiple follicles on ultrasound, though cysts are not essential.
The diagnostic process typically includes:

  • Medical history review: Discussing symptoms, family history, and menstrual patterns.
  • Physical examination: Checking for hair growth, skin changes, or acne.
  • Blood tests: Measuring hormone levels, glucose, cholesterol, and triglycerides.
  • Pelvic ultrasound: Examining the ovaries and uterine lining.

What are the Treatment Options for PCOS

Managing PCOS really depends on what matters most to you, whether it’s regulating periods, reducing unwanted hair, improving skin, managing weight, or supporting fertility. There’s no permanent cure, but symptoms can improve a lot with the right approach. For those not planning pregnancy soon:

  • Hormonal birth control: Options like pills, patches, or IUDs can help keep your cycles regular, lower the effects of excess androgens, and improve acne or hair growth.
  • Medications for insulin resistance: Help your body use insulin better, which can lower androgen levels and support more regular ovulation.
  • Androgen-blocking medicines: Control unwanted hair growth and stubborn acne.
  • Topical treatments: Creams to slow facial hair or standard acne products.
If you are trying to conceive:

  • Oral ovulation-inducing medications: Help stimulate egg release as the first step toward pregnancy.
  • Hormonal injections: Used if oral medicines aren’t enough to trigger ovulation.
  • Assisted reproductive options: Like IVF, if getting pregnant naturally proves difficult.
Living with PCOS can feel overwhelming at times, but understanding your body and knowing your options makes a big difference. Remember, every person’s journey with PCOS is unique, and seeking help early can make navigating it much easier!

You’re not alone in your journey when trying to conceive. Join our supportive community to connect with others, share experiences, and find encouragement every step of the way.

FAQs on Your PCOS Guide 101: Diagnosis, Causes, and Ways to Treat It


  1. Can natural remedies treat PCOS?
    Natural approaches like herbal supplements, acupuncture, or yoga may help with symptoms, but they cannot replace medical treatment.
  2. Does PCOS affect pregnancy outcomes?
    PCOS can slightly increase the risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or miscarriage.

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