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September is marked as the PCOS Awareness Month.
According to World Health Organization (WHO) , Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects women of reproductive age. It usually starts during adolescence, but symptoms may fluctuate over time. 1
MedBound Times connected with a few experts to discuss the physical, psychological, and social implications of PCOS on women’s health.
Dr. Sudipta Banerjee Oberoi, MRCOG DNB, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, NHS, UK. explains the major symptoms that gynecologists look to confirm positive diagnosis for PCOS.
Dr. Prarthna, MBBS-LHMC, MD Pathology, Senior resident at University College of Medical Science and Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital says:
"As a healthcare professional, I've seen the firsthand distress that PCOS can cause. The symptoms are multifaceted – irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, and ovarian cysts. But it's not just the physical symptoms that are challenging; the emotional toll of PCOS can be just as significant."
She also commented on the implications that women go through beyond irregular periods.
"The impact on reproductive health is profound. Women with PCOS may experience difficulty conceiving, and if they do become pregnant, they're at a higher risk of complications like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia."
Dr. Prarthna, MBBS-LHMC, MD Pathology, Senior resident at UCMS and GTBH
Liza Hazarika, Psychologist (MA Clinical Psychology), spoke to MedBound Times about the body image issues and stigma related to PCOS.
"In our society we hold different kind of beauty standards, right? A clear skin and a certain kind of body shape, hair growth or just hair on body is considered unhygienic which is again not at all, it's completely the different, the opposite actually."
"So, some women with PCOS can have a lot of body image issues because of the physiological changes, because of weight, pimples or excessive hair on their body."
Liza commented that some women with PCOS also consider themselves less confident because of the insecurities related to their bodies.
"They can experience constant mood swings. They may feel sad, low, anxious, nervous, or even hyperactive. So, there are difficulties in their lifestyle, in their mood," she added.
Experts agree that awareness is key. Women need to be educated about the symptoms of PCOS, the risks of untreated hormonal imbalance, and available treatment options.
All the experts stressed about working together as a society, to make a difference in the lives of women with PCOS.
"Let's prioritize the health and well-being of women with PCOS. Let's provide them with the care and support they deserve," Dr. Prarthna added.
Reference
1. World Health Organization. “Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.” Newsroom Fact Sheets, February 7, 2025. Accessed September 8, 2025. WHO.
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/polycystic-ovary-syndrome
Reviewed by Dr Sumbul
