PCOD/PCOS
PCOS (Polycystic ovarian syndrome) formerly called PCOD is a common condition seen in 20-30% of the reproductive aged women. It is no more considered a disease. It is a syndrome – a collection of signs often seen together.
How is the diagnosis of PCOS made?
The diagnosis of PCOS is based on the presence of 2 of the following 3 symptoms
- Anovulation or irregular cycles
- Signs of hyperandrogenism – increased testosterone in the the body characterized by increased hair on the face and body(hirsuitism), acne, weight gain, alopecia.
- Polycystic ovaries on scan
Can I get pregnant with a diagnosis of PCOS?
Yes, it is possible to get pregnant with PCOS although these women take longer to conceive and have higher rates of miscarriage. Following a healthy lifestyle and maintaining optimum weight makes it easier for these women to conceive. If the couple is finding it difficult to conceive naturally, medications can help these women conceive.
What are the complications of PCOS?
The complications associated with PCOS include:
- Anovulation - causing irregular cycles, infertility
- Hormonal disturbances
- Increased risk of Pregnancy complications
- Increased risk of Diabetes mellitus
- Psychological disturbances
Can PCOS be treated?
It is possible to take care of the symptoms of PCOS. Regular exercise and healthy diet can improve the hormonal disturbance in women with PCOS. Weight loss in obese women with PCOS improves pregnancy rates. Women need to be counselled regarding the disease and its effects on various aspects of life. Women who understand PCOS better can take better care of their health and overcome its symptoms.
What are the treatment options for PCOS related infertility?
If the woman is unable to conceive, the following options are available:
- Ovulation induction
- Intrauterine insemination(IUI)
- IVF/ICSI
- Laparoscopic ovarian drilling may be advised in some women.
What are the complications of fertility treatment in women with PCOS?
Ovulation induction/ Stimulation for the process of IVF/ICSI must be carried out in a controlled way with adequate supervision as there is a risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in these women.
The miscarriage rates in the first 12 weeks in women with PCOS is higher as compared to other women.
Which doctor is best for PCOD /PCOS treatment?
Dr Sneha J is a Gynecologist and best fertility specialist. She has completed MD OBG from the top university AIIMS , Delhi and University fellowship in Fertility/ Reproductive medicine. She had further training in dealing with these conditions, as a visiting fellow at high output centres in Madrid, Spain and Chicago,USA. A gynaecologist with training in Reproductive Medicine is best for PCOD/PCOS treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
PCOD and PCOS are often used interchangeably, but they are not always described in exactly the same way. PCOS is a hormonal and metabolic syndrome that can involve irregular ovulation, increased androgen activity, and polycystic-appearing ovaries. A proper PCOS diagnosis should be based on the patient's symptoms, medical history, examination, and appropriate investigations.
Yes. The absence of polycystic-appearing ovaries on an ultrasound does not automatically rule out PCOS. Diagnosis can involve other features such as irregular ovulation or signs of increased androgen activity, so PCOS evaluation should consider the complete clinical picture rather than an ultrasound alone.
Yes. PCOS can affect ovulation and may lead to irregular or infrequent menstrual cycles even when pregnancy is not currently a goal. Appropriate PCOS management can help address menstrual irregularity and other symptoms while also supporting long-term reproductive and metabolic health.
Excess weight can worsen some hormonal and metabolic features associated with PCOS. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and achieving a healthy weight where appropriate may improve hormonal function and reproductive outcomes, making PCOS weight management an important part of overall care.
Yes. Women with PCOS may have a higher risk of certain pregnancy complications, including miscarriage and some metabolic or pregnancy-related problems. Once pregnancy occurs, appropriate PCOS pregnancy care can help monitor the mother and baby according to individual risk factors.
Women with PCOS can be more susceptible to ovarian hyperstimulation during ovulation induction or IVF stimulation. Careful medication selection, dose adjustment, monitoring of ovarian response, and an individualized treatment plan can help reduce the risk of OHSS prevention during fertility treatment.
Laparoscopic ovarian drilling is not required for every woman with PCOS. It may be considered in selected women with difficulty ovulating when other appropriate fertility approaches have not been successful or when the specialist believes the procedure may be beneficial. Laparoscopic ovarian drilling should therefore be considered only after individual assessment.
PCOS does not necessarily disappear simply because a woman becomes pregnant. Some underlying hormonal or metabolic features may continue to require attention, although management during pregnancy differs from pre-pregnancy treatment. Continued PCOS monitoring should be guided by the treating obstetrician.
Yes. PCOS can involve more than reproductive symptoms and may be associated with hormonal, metabolic, psychological, and pregnancy-related concerns. Regular medical follow-up and appropriate PCOS health screening can help identify issues that may need attention beyond conception.
A consultation is worthwhile when irregular periods persist, particularly if they are accompanied by excess facial or body hair, acne, unexplained weight changes, hair thinning, or difficulty conceiving. A PCOS specialist can determine whether the symptoms are related to PCOS or another hormonal or gynaecological condition.
