What is PCOS?

August 5, 2026 By Khans Medical

What is PCOS?

By Dr Saleem Khan MBBS,DOWH,MRCOG, Dip -Psy-Sextherapy, FRCOG

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women of reproductive age. It can affect your menstrual cycle, fertility, hormones, metabolism and long-term health.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), PCOS affects approximately 8–13% of women of reproductive age, meaning around 1 in 10 women worldwide have the condition. Alarmingly, studies suggest that up to 70% of women with PCOS remain undiagnosed, often because symptoms vary from person to person.

The good news is that PCOS is treatable, and with early diagnosis and personalised care, most women can successfully manage their symptoms and achieve a healthy pregnancy if they wish.

What Does PCOS Mean?

The name “Polycystic Ovary Syndrome” can be misleading.

Many women with PCOS do not actually have ovarian cysts.

Instead, the ovaries often contain multiple small immature follicles that have not developed enough to release an egg.

PCOS is primarily a disorder involving:

  • Hormonal imbalance
  • Irregular ovulation
  • Insulin resistance
  • Increased androgen (male hormone) levels

These hormonal changes affect many organs throughout the body—not just the ovaries.

How Common is PCOS?

Current international research shows:

  • 8–13% of women of reproductive age have PCOS.
  • Around 1 in every 10 women is affected.
  • Up to 70% remain undiagnosed.
  • PCOS is the most common hormonal disorder affecting women of childbearing age.
  • It is also the leading cause of ovulation-related infertility.

What Causes PCOS?

The exact cause of PCOS remains unknown, but experts believe several factors contribute.

Genetics

PCOS often runs in families.

If your mother or sister has PCOS, your risk is significantly increased.

Insulin Resistance

Research suggests that approximately 35–50% of women with PCOS have insulin resistance, meaning the body’s cells do not respond effectively to insulin.

This causes higher insulin levels, which stimulate the ovaries to produce more male hormones (androgens).

Hormonal Imbalance

Women with PCOS often produce higher levels of androgens.

These hormones interfere with normal egg development and ovulation.

Inflammation

Low-grade chronic inflammation is commonly seen in women with PCOS and may contribute to hormonal imbalance and metabolic complications.

What Are the Symptoms of PCOS?

Every woman experiences PCOS differently.

Common symptoms include:

Irregular or absent periods

Some women may only have a few periods each year.

Difficulty becoming pregnant

Because ovulation is often irregular or absent, PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility.

Excess facial or body hair (Hirsutism)

Higher androgen levels may cause increased hair growth on the face, chest or abdomen.

Acne and oily skin

Hormonal imbalance frequently causes persistent acne, even in adulthood.

Weight gain

Many women with PCOS find it difficult to lose weight, particularly around the abdomen.

Thinning hair

Hair loss or thinning from the scalp can also occur.

Darkened skin

Some women develop darker patches of skin around the neck, underarms or groin due to insulin resistance.

How is PCOS Diagnosed?

PCOS is usually diagnosed using the internationally recognised Rotterdam Criteria.

A diagnosis is made when two out of the following three features are present:

  • Irregular or absent ovulation
  • Clinical or biochemical signs of increased androgens
  • Polycystic appearance of the ovaries on ultrasound

Your consultant may also recommend:

  • Hormone blood tests
  • Blood sugar assessment
  • Cholesterol profile
  • Thyroid function tests
  • Pelvic ultrasound scan

Can PCOS Affect Fertility?

Yes—but it is important to remember that PCOS does not mean you cannot become pregnant.

Approximately 70–80% of women with PCOS experience difficulty conceiving due to irregular ovulation.

However, with appropriate treatment:

  • Lifestyle changes
  • Weight optimisation
  • Ovulation induction medication
  • Fertility monitoring

Around 70–85% of women with PCOS can achieve pregnancy without needing IVF.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Untreated PCOS can increase the risk of:

  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Heart disease
  • Endometrial hyperplasia
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Sleep apnoea

Early diagnosis allows these risks to be reduced through lifestyle changes and personalised medical care.

When Should You See a Specialist?

You should arrange a consultation if you have:

  • Irregular or absent periods
  • Difficulty becoming pregnant
  • Excess facial hair
  • Persistent acne
  • Unexplained weight gain
  • Hair thinning
  • A family history of PCOS
  • Symptoms suggestive of hormonal imbalance

The sooner PCOS is diagnosed, the sooner treatment can begin.

How Can Khans Medical Services Help?

At Khans Medical Services, we offer consultant-led assessment and personalised care for women with suspected or confirmed PCOS.

Our services include:

  • Comprehensive PCOS assessment
  • Hormonal blood testing
  • Pelvic ultrasound referral and interpretation
  • Fertility assessment
  • Menstrual disorder management
  • Weight and lifestyle advice
  • Personalised treatment plans
  • Long-term monitoring
  • Pre-conception counselling

Our aim is not only to relieve symptoms but also to improve your long-term health and fertility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PCOS curable?

There is currently no cure for PCOS, but symptoms can usually be managed very effectively with lifestyle changes and appropriate medical treatment.

Can you have PCOS without ovarian cysts?

Yes. Many women diagnosed with PCOS do not have ovarian cysts. The diagnosis is based on internationally accepted criteria, not ultrasound findings alone.

Is PCOS hereditary?

Yes. PCOS commonly runs in families, suggesting a strong genetic component.

Can women with PCOS become pregnant naturally?

Yes. Many women conceive naturally, while others may benefit from ovulation induction or fertility treatment. Most women with PCOS do not require IVF.

Does losing weight help PCOS?

For women who are overweight, losing just 5–10% of body weight can improve hormone balance, restore ovulation and increase the chances of pregnancy.

Why Choose Khans Medical Services?

  • Consultant-led women’s health clinic
  • More than 30 years of clinical experience
  • Personalised treatment plans
  • Evidence-based care
  • Fertility and hormone expertise
  • Comprehensive diagnostic assessment
  • Compassionate, discreet consultations
  • Convenient appointments in MediaCity, Manchester

Book Your PCOS Assessment

If you’re experiencing irregular periods, hormonal symptoms or difficulty conceiving, don’t ignore the signs.

Early diagnosis and expert care can make a significant difference to your health and fertility.

Book a consultant-led PCOS consultation at Khans Medical Services today and take the first step towards understanding your hormones and improving your wellbeing.

References

This article is based on current evidence and guidance from:

  • World Health Organization (WHO)
  • International Evidence-based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (2023)
  • European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE)
  • American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)
  • National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)