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PCOS: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment for Women

Dr. Manisha Acharya
Reviewed by Dr. Manisha Acharya ,
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This information has been reviewed and approved by an experienced fertility specialist at Indira IVF to provide accurate and up-to-date guidance for our readers.

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Last updated: November 12, 2025

Synopsis

Affecting many women of reproductive age, PCOS involves complex hormonal imbalances. This article examines the causes, symptoms, and diagnostic techniques, as well as treatment options that range from lifestyle adjustments to advanced fertility therapies. It highlights the importance of personalised care and early intervention to mitigate long-term health risks.

 

Introduction

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that affects women in their reproductive years. Living with PCOS means noticing irregular periods, having enlarged ovaries with multiple small follicles, and having higher levels of androgens (male hormones). PCOS is more than a medical condition. It not only impacts you physically through your weight, fertility, and skin, but also affects your emotional well-being.

Indira IVF Nepal recognises the emotional and physical toll that fertility challenges can have on individuals and couples. Our dedicated specialists focus on understanding your needs and providing accurate diagnosis, personalised treatments, and supportive lifestyle advice. With the right care, you can restore balance, take charge of your health, and move closer to motherhood with confidence.

What is PCOS?

Many women across the world face PCOS, a hormonal disorder that disrupts ovulation and makes fertility a challenge. But the body leaves signals like irregular periods, skin problems, and weight gain. Recognising them early helps women get answers and manage PCOS effectively.

Here are some key facts about PCOS:

  • PCOS stands for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
  • Hormonal imbalances interfere with ovulation
  • Ovaries may develop tiny cyst-like follicles
  • Common effects include irregular periods, acne, weight gain, and fertility challenges

Symptoms of PCOS

Though symptoms of PCOS range from mild to severe, recognising them early ensures you get the right diagnosis, care, and treatment options to manage your health effectively.

Ask yourself:

  • Are your periods irregular?
  • Have you noticed weight gain around your stomach?
  • Is your hair thinning?
  • Do you struggle with acne?
  • Are you finding it hard to conceive?
  • Do mood swings or anxiety affect you often?

These may be signs of PCOS. These symptoms are common. If they sound familiar, rest assured that many women share these experiences, and effective management is available.

PCOS and Fertility

Infertility is a common issue faced by women all over the world, and PCOS is one of the culprits causing this. Since it affects the hormonal imbalance, ovulation either becomes highly irregular or stops completely. So, it is very difficult for the couple to conceive naturally. For many women, this is emotionally draining and can be frustrating to deal with, especially when they have been trying for months and still feel uncertain.

Fortunately, PCOS-related infertility is not the end of the road. Once you have the right medical support, treatment, and lifestyle adjustments, you can also go on to have a healthy pregnancy. Simple steps like maintaining a healthy weight, exercising every day, and improving your diet can make a big difference. You can also make use of modern fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF), ovulation induction, and intrauterine insemination (IUI), which are highly effective. At Indira IVF, we have helped countless women with PCOS achieve their dream of becoming a mother.

Diagnosis of PCOS

The path to managing PCOS begins with an accurate PCOS diagnosis. Doctors use a detailed, careful approach to distinguish PCOS from other conditions with similar symptoms

  • The process usually starts with a detailed medical history and physical exam to understand your cycles, symptoms, and overall health.
  • Because PCOS symptoms overlap with other conditions, doctors recommend comprehensive blood tests for hormones, thyroid, insulin, and prolactin.
  • Many specialists include a pelvic ultrasound in testing, as it gives a clear view of ovarian follicle patterns.
  • Differential diagnosis is crucial; physicians exclude thyroid dysfunction and hyperprolactinemia to establish an accurate basis for treatment.

Treatment Options for PCOS

The path to managing PCOS begins with an accurate PCOS diagnosis. Doctors use a detailed, careful approach to distinguish PCOS from other conditions with similar symptoms

  • Lifestyle Modifications

    In PCOS treatment protocols, lifestyle modification is a primary recommendation. A diet composed of low-glycaemic index carbohydrates, lean proteins, and fibre supports metabolic health. Pairing lifestyle changes with simple physical activities like yoga or walking can improve both hormonal health and energy levels. Even a modest weight loss has been shown to restore ovulation in many women, making a big difference for both health and fertility regarding PCOS management.
  • Medications

    When lifestyle interventions prove inadequate, physicians may recommend medication. Oral contraceptives play a key role in restoring menstrual regularity and lowering androgen activity. With the right treatment, change is possible. Insulin-sensitising medicines can help your body work better with insulin, and ovulation-inducing drugs can open the door to pregnancy.
  • Fertility Treatments

    When natural methods don’t lead to pregnancy, assisted reproductive technologies like Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) or In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) provide highly effective solutions. These therapies bring women with PCOS closer to the joy of family life.
  • Surgical Options

    It can be frustrating when medications don’t work. In such moments, laparoscopic ovarian drilling might be the next step, a procedure that can help restore ovulation and keep the dream of pregnancy alive.

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  • Our team of experienced gynaecologists and fertility specialists use the latest techniques in hormonal testing and imaging to provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
  • Instead of offering a one-size-fits-all solution, we create personalised treatment plans tailored to your unique needs and goals.
  • Beyond medical treatments, we also focus on a holistic approach that includes diet guidance, exercise routines, and stress management strategies.

Thanks to our complete care approach, so many women across Nepal have been able to beat PCOS-related infertility and finally embrace motherhood.

Book a Consultation

  • Getting diagnosed and treated early for PCOS really pays off. It helps prevent future health problems and makes it easier to get pregnant.
  • Acting sooner helps you feel stronger and more balanced. PCOS doesn’t define you. You can still lead a vibrant, confident, healthy life.
  • Take the first step toward better care and brighter possibilities. Book your consultation with Indira IVF Nepal today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can PCOS be cured permanently?

Does PCOS always cause infertility?

Can PCOS lead to other health problems?

What is the best age to treat PCOS?

Can losing weight help with PCOS?