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PCOS Awareness Month: 5 Things You Need to Know

September is PCOS Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on one of the most common and often misunderstood conditions affecting people assigned female at birth. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) impacts as many as 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, yet many go years without a diagnosis or clear answers about their health and fertility.

Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed, suspect you may have PCOS, or are simply trying to understand it better, here are the top 5 things you need to know about PCOS:

1. PCOS Is More Than Just “Ovarian Cysts”

Despite the name, PCOS is not simply about having cysts on your ovaries. In fact, many patients with PCOS don’t have cysts at all. PCOS is really a hormonal condition that affects how the ovaries work.

Typical features include:

• Irregular or absent periods due to lack of regular ovulation.

• Higher levels of androgens (male hormones) which can lead to acne, excess hair growth, or hair thinning.

• Polycystic-appearing ovaries seen on ultrasound (many small follicles in the ovaries).

Because symptoms can vary widely from patient to patient, PCOS often goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed.

2. PCOS Can Affect More Than Fertility

Many people think of PCOS as “just” a fertility issue, but it can impact overall health in several ways. Patients with PCOS are at increased risk of:

• Insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes
  

• High cholesterol and heart disease
  

• Endometrial hyperplasia (thickening of the uterine lining due to irregular shedding)

• Depression and anxiety related to both hormonal imbalances and the emotional toll of symptoms
  
  

This is why PCOS should be managed not just for fertility but for long-term health and wellness.

3. PCOS and Fertility: Hopeful Options Exist

One of the most common questions patients ask is: “Can I get pregnant if I have PCOS?” The answer is yes, many people with PCOS are able to have children with the right support and treatment.

• For some, lifestyle changes like weight management, exercise, and nutrition help regulate cycles and restore ovulation.

• Medications such as letrozole or clomiphene citrate are often used to stimulate ovulation.

• If first-line treatments aren’t effective, in vitro fertilization (IVF) or other assisted reproductive technologies are highly successful options.

The key takeaway: a PCOS diagnosis does not mean infertility; it simply means your fertility journey may require personalized care and treatment.

4. Lifestyle and Nutrition Play an Important Role

While PCOS is not caused by lifestyle choices, the way you care for your body can have a big impact on managing symptoms. Because insulin resistance is common in PCOS, many patients benefit from:

• Balanced meals with lean protein, vegetables, fiber, and healthy fats

• Lower-glycemic foods to help manage blood sugar levels

• Regular physical activity to improve insulin sensitivity and support healthy weight management

• Stress reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, or counseling to balance hormonal fluctuations

Even modest lifestyle adjustments can improve cycle regularity, energy levels, and overall health.

5. You Don’t Have to Face PCOS Alone

A PCOS diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone. Millions of women live with PCOS, and there is a growing community of medical professionals, advocacy groups, and patients raising awareness and pushing for better treatments.

If you suspect you have PCOS or are struggling with your symptoms, it’s important to:

• Talk to a reproductive endocrinologist or gynecologist who understands PCOS.

• Ask about personalized treatment plans, there is no one-size-fits-all approach.

• Seek emotional support, from counseling, support groups, or others who share your journey.
  
  

This PCOS Awareness Month, take time to learn, ask questions, and advocate for your health. The more we talk about PCOS, the more we break down stigma and ensure that patients get the care and understanding they deserve.

Final Word of Encouragement

PCOS is a complex condition, but knowledge is power. By understanding the symptoms, health risks, and treatment options, you can take proactive steps toward better health and fertility. Remember: PCOS does not define you. With the right care and support, you can live a healthy, fulfilling life, and build the family you’ve dreamed of.

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