PCOS: What It Is and How to Manage It

What Is PCOS?

PCOS stands for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
It is a hormone problem that affects many women of child-bearing age. The ovaries make extra “male-type” hormones, periods become irregular, and tiny fluid-filled sacs (cysts) can form on the ovaries.

Why Does PCOS Happen?

Doctors do not know one single cause, but three main factors play a big role:

1. Hormone mix-up – higher levels of insulin and androgens (male hormones).
   

2. Family genes – PCOS can run in families.
   

3. Lifestyle links – being overweight, eating lots of sugary foods, and sitting for long hours can make symptoms worse.

Common Symptoms

• Irregular or missed periods
  

• Extra facial or body hair (chin, upper lip, stomach)
  

• Acne or oily skin
  

• Easy weight gain, especially around the belly
  

• Thinning hair on the scalp
  

• Trouble getting pregnant
  

• Tiredness or mood swings
  

If you notice two or more of these signs, talk to a gynecologist for simple blood tests and an ultrasound scan.

Everyday Fixes You Can Start Now

. Eat Smart

• Plate rule: fill half with veggies, one-quarter with protein (dal, egg, fish, chicken), one-quarter with whole grains (brown rice, roti).
  

• Cut sugary drinks and snacks; choose fruit, nuts, or buttermilk instead.
  

  Add good fats like almonds, walnuts, and a spoon of flaxseed to help hormones balance.

. Move More

• Aim for 30 minutes of brisk walking or cycling five days a week.
  

• Add strength exercises (squats, lunges, push-ups) 2–3 times weekly to burn belly fat.
  

Even small steps—using stairs or doing 10-minute dance breaks—help insulin levels.

. Sleep & Stress Check

• 7–8 hours of sleep keeps hormones steady.
  

• Try deep-breathing or yoga to lower stress, which often worsens PCOS acne and cravings.

. Track Your Cycle

Use a period-tracking app or a simple calendar. Irregular dates help your doctor fine-tune treatment and spot improvements.

. Regular Doctor Visits

• Blood tests for sugar, cholesterol, and hormones once a year.
  

• Ultrasound if periods stay irregular longer than three months.
  

• Your doctor may give metformin (to control insulin) or birth-control pills (to regulate hormones) if lifestyle steps are not enough.

When to Seek Help Fast

• No period for three straight months
  

• Positive pregnancy test but irregular cycles
  

• Sudden, heavy acne or rapid hair loss
  

• Mood changes that affect daily life
  

Call Matrutvam’s women-only helpline +91 91202 02120 for a same-day appointment.

The Good News

PCOS is manageable. With steady lifestyle changes and the right medical care, most women see:

• Periods become regular
  

• Skin clears up
  

• Energy levels rise
  

• Better chances of healthy pregnancy
  
  

Need Support?

Visit us at ARK Business Centre, Nagar-Manmad Highway, Savedi, Ahilya Nagar or book online at matrutvamhospitals.com.
Our women team offers PCOS diet counselling, workout plans, and gentle guidance every step of the way.

Small daily choices make a big difference—start today!