Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS/PMOS) is one of the most common hormonal conditions in women of reproductive age — yet it is often misunderstood, and many women live with it undiagnosed for years. This guide explains what PCOS/PMOS is, how it's diagnosed, and how it's managed, so you can recognise the signs and know when to seek help.
Dr. Nasreen Ashfaq
MBBS, DGO · Senior Consultant OB/GYN, Ankura Hospitals
PCOS/PMOS (also called PCOD) is a condition in which the ovaries don't work as they should, linked to an imbalance in reproductive hormones and, often, to insulin resistance. This can disrupt ovulation, which is why irregular periods and difficulty conceiving are such common features. PCOS/PMOS is not curable, but for most women it can be managed well — with symptoms improving and cycles becoming more regular — through the right, personalised care.
The exact cause isn't fully understood, but genetics and insulin resistance both play a role. When the body doesn't respond well to insulin, it produces more of it, which can increase male-type hormones (androgens) and interfere with regular ovulation. This is why lifestyle and metabolic health are such an important part of managing PCOS/PMOS.
PCOS/PMOS looks different in every woman — some have many symptoms, others just one or two. Common signs include:
There's no single test for PCOS/PMOS. Doctors look at the overall picture, usually diagnosing it when at least two of these three are present: irregular ovulation (irregular periods), signs of excess androgens (such as acne or excess hair, or on blood tests), and polycystic ovaries seen on ultrasound. A few blood tests and a scan are usually enough, once other conditions are ruled out.
Management is tailored to your symptoms and goals — whether that's regulating periods, managing skin or hair concerns, or planning a pregnancy. It usually combines a lifestyle foundation (balanced, lower-glycaemic eating, regular activity, and weight management where relevant) with medical support where needed (medication to regulate cycles, address insulin resistance, or support fertility). Small, consistent changes often make a real difference.
Because PCOS/PMOS can affect ovulation, it's a common cause of difficulty conceiving — but many women with PCOS/PMOS go on to have healthy pregnancies. Cycle regulation, lifestyle support and, where needed, ovulation induction or fertility care can all help.
If you have irregular periods, are struggling to conceive, or notice symptoms such as excess hair growth or persistent acne, it's worth getting checked. Early diagnosis makes PCOS/PMOS easier to manage and helps protect your long-term health. Dr. Nasreen Ashfaq offers PCOS/PMOS diagnosis and management in Banjara Hills, Hyderabad — learn more on the PCOS/PMOS treatment page, or book a consultation. PCOS/PMOS is one of several conditions behind hormonal symptoms at other life stages.
Dr. Nasreen's Tip
Even a 5–10% reduction in body weight can restore regular ovulation in many PCOS/PMOS patients. Consistent lifestyle changes often work better than medication alone.
Have concerns? Book a consultation.
Dr. Nasreen Ashfaq · Ankura Hospitals, Banjara Hills · Mon–Sat, 12–5 PM
