Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age (age 15 to 44 years). Common symptoms include infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods, excess hair growth, acne and weight gain. Now we will discuss 5 myths about PCOS.

MYTH # 1: You did something that caused it 

While the exact cause of PCOS is not known, it is for sure that you are not to blame and genetics are known to play a role. Women with PCOS produce higher than normal amounts of androgens (male hormones). It is due to this imbalance that you tend to have irregular periods.

Women with family history of type 2 diabetes are also prone to develop PCOS during their teens.

MYTH # 2: Losing weight will help you get rid of PCOS

Unfortunately, there is no cure of PCOS, but losing weight will definitely help you in balancing hormone levels in your body. It will also help in relieving some of the major symptoms of the disease such as irregular periods.

MYTH #3: PCOS is a rare condition

Almost 5 million women globally suffer from PCOS, which makes it one of the most common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age. According to the PCOS Foundation, it is the major cause of infertility in women almost 70% of the time.

Myth #4: You can’t get pregnant, if you have PCOS

This is obviously not true and because you are still intermittently ovulating. Consult your doctor who will prescribe fertility medicines that will further stimulate ovulation. A surgical procedure known as ovarian drilling can also increase your chances of successful ovulation and getting pregnant.

Myth #5: PCOS mainly affects overweight women

PCOS does not discriminate and can affect women of all shapes and sizes. However, obesity can obviously make PCOS symptoms worse. For the same reason healthy eating habits and exercising regularly is recommended as part of the treatment plan.