Published: 31 August 2026 · Department: Obstetrics & Gynecology
Quick answer: PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is a common hormonal and metabolic condition that can affect menstrual cycles, ovulation, fertility, skin, hair and long-term metabolic health. PCOS treatment depends on the symptoms, age, pregnancy plans and associated health risks of each woman.
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal condition in which abnormal hormone signalling can interfere with regular ovulation and menstrual cycles.
Despite the name, having ovarian cysts is not required to have PCOS. Diagnosis is based on a combination of menstrual or ovulation problems, signs of increased androgen activity and, when appropriate, ovarian appearance on ultrasound. Other conditions that can cause similar symptoms must first be excluded.
Women experiencing irregular periods or other reproductive-health concerns can consult the Obstetrics & Gynecology Department at Westin Hospitals.
PCOS symptoms vary from one person to another. Common signs may include:
Some women may have only one or two noticeable symptoms. Because irregular periods can have several causes, symptoms alone are not enough to confirm PCOS.
The exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood. Factors associated with the condition may include:
Higher androgen activity can interfere with normal ovulation and contribute to acne, excess facial or body hair and changes in menstrual cycles.
Insulin resistance is common in PCOS and can contribute to increased androgen production and metabolic problems.
PCOS tends to run in families. A family history of PCOS or type 2 diabetes may increase risk.
PCOS can affect women of different body sizes and should not be considered a condition caused only by excess weight.
There is no single test that diagnoses PCOS. Doctors usually assess menstrual history, symptoms, physical findings and relevant blood tests.
After excluding other possible causes, diagnosis in adults may involve a combination of:
Doctors may also evaluate blood sugar, cholesterol and other metabolic factors because PCOS can be associated with insulin resistance and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.
Westin Hospitals' Health Packages include general preventive investigations such as blood sugar, lipid profile, thyroid testing and whole-abdomen ultrasound. These do not replace a specific PCOS evaluation by a gynecologist.
There is no single PCOS treatment that is suitable for everyone. Management is individualized according to symptoms, metabolic health and pregnancy plans.
Healthy eating and regular physical activity are important for women with PCOS. When medically appropriate, weight management may improve metabolic health and ovulation.
Women with insulin resistance, diabetes or other metabolic concerns may also require coordinated care through Endocrinology at Westin Hospitals.
Doctors may recommend hormonal treatment in suitable patients to regulate menstrual cycles and protect the uterine lining.
Treatment may be selected to manage increased androgen-related symptoms such as acne or unwanted facial and body hair.
PCOS can interfere with regular ovulation and may make conception more difficult, but having PCOS does not mean pregnancy is impossible. Women trying to conceive may need individualized treatment to improve ovulation and fertility.
PCOS is not limited to periods and fertility. Women with PCOS may have a higher risk of:
PCOS can also affect emotional well-being, so management should consider both physical and psychological health.
Consider a gynecology evaluation if you have:
Early evaluation can help identify PCOS as well as other hormonal or gynecological conditions that may cause similar symptoms.
There is currently no single permanent cure for PCOS, but symptoms, fertility concerns and long-term health risks can often be managed effectively with appropriate treatment and lifestyle measures.
No. A woman can have PCOS without having polycystic ovaries on ultrasound. Ovarian appearance is only one part of the diagnostic assessment.
PCOS can interfere with regular ovulation and is a common cause of fertility difficulties. Many women with PCOS can still become pregnant, with treatment when necessary.
Yes. Although irregular periods are common, doctors consider the complete clinical picture, including ovulation, androgen-related symptoms and relevant investigations.
A gynecologist is usually the appropriate specialist for menstrual, ovulation and fertility concerns related to PCOS. Endocrinology support may also be useful when significant metabolic or hormonal problems are present.
If you are experiencing irregular periods, fertility concerns or other symptoms suggestive of PCOS, consult the Obstetrics & Gynecology Department at Westin Hospitals, Madhapur.
Depending on your symptoms, evaluation may also involve metabolic testing or coordinated care with Endocrinology.
You can Book an Appointment or Contact Westin Hospitals for assistance.