Debunking The Top 6 Myths Around PCOS

PCOS or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome can be defined as a hormonal condition that nearly affects 10% of the women who are in the reproductive age. Women with PCOS have high levels of male producing hormones known as androgens, including high levels of insulin, a hormone that helps in regulating the blood sugar levels in the body. Ever since the problem of PCOS came into existence there has been a plethora of myths surrounding the same. From cysts in ovaries to not getting pregnant, we will try to debunk the most common myths around PCOS thereby giving you a better understanding about the problem and its medical prevalence. 

Top 6 Myths Around PCOS

1. You Have to have Cysts in Ovaries- As the name suggests and often many people easily get confused over the fact that for a woman who is diagnosed with PCOS will have cysts in her ovaries. That is not true! For people it is vital to know that many women can get PCOS who don’t even have cysts in their ovaries. That is the reason why doctors around the world are debating and demanding that PCOS should be changed to ‘reproductive metabolic syndrome’. 

2. A Woman Grows Hair in Places Where She Does Not Want It- The most significant symptom of PCOS is hirsutism which is nothing but abnormal hair growth in women. As already stated above, that women suffering from PCOS have an excess amount of androgens which can lead to the growth of unwanted hair around their body which also includes chin, upper lip, and chest. However not every woman will have the same symptom. 

3. Irregular Periods Mean You Have PCOS- Well, there are an endless number of reasons responsible for irregular periods and one of them is PCOS. A normal and a healthy period cycle usually comes between 21-35 days. However, apart from PCOS various other factors including breastfeeding, over exercising, fibroids, uterine fibroids, thyroid etc. can be responsible for irregular periods. It is always better to get in touch with your gynecologist and take the necessary blood tests to know the reason behind irregular periods. 

4. You Need an Ultrasound for the PCOS Diagnosis- Another misconception that has been around the corner is that you need an ultrasound test to determine whether you are suffering from PCOS or not. You need to know that if you are having multiple follicles or cysts in ovaries your doctor may not do an ultrasound. However, if you are getting treated by an obstetrician gynecologist and not showcasing the symptoms of unwanted hair growth or irregular periods, then you may undergo an ultrasound. 

5. Every Woman With PCOS Should Take Birth-Control Pills- Hormonal birth control pills are one of the most common methods undertaken by the doctors for treating women with PCOS. However, the treatment of PCOS will mainly depend upon your end goal. If you are planning to have kids and start a family, you’ll not opt for this treatment. That is why today doctors lay a lot of emphasis on changing your lifestyle pattern which includes reducing stress, and eating a healthy and a well-balanced diet. 

6. Your Chances of Getting Pregnant are Impossible if You have PCOS- Lastly, one of the most commonly heard myths about PCOS is that you’ll never get pregnant. Well, the hormonal problem can affect the ovaries ability to release an egg which will make you potentially pregnant. Simply because you can still get pregnant naturally, or through fertility treatments such as various follicle-stimulating drugs. 

Wrapping Up

These are the top 6 myths common around PCOS. However, to make things better around you make sure that you start implementing small-small changes to your daily routine. From eating healthy and a nutritional meal to doing physical workout, you can regularize your menstrual cycle by simply making a change to your daily routine. Don’t Stress! Always seek the help from a medical expert!