Dr. Shatha Amjad Al-Shahir, an obstetrics and gynecology specialist at Al-Funun Surgical Hospital, said polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is increasingly being described as a “polycystic endocrine and metabolic syndrome,” a term she said more accurately reflects the nature of the condition.
According to Al-Shahir, the newer terminology highlights that the disorder goes beyond the presence of cysts in the ovaries, as the traditional name may suggest. Instead, PCOS is a chronic hormonal and metabolic disorder that can affect multiple systems throughout the body.
The condition involves the ovaries and pituitary gland and is frequently associated with weight gain and insulin resistance. It can also have a direct impact on fertility and a woman’s overall quality of life.
What Causes Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
Al-Shahir explained that PCOS does not have a single underlying cause. Rather, it develops through a combination of interacting factors, including genetic predisposition, hormonal disturbances, weight gain, genetic abnormalities and lifestyle-related factors.
The most common symptoms include irregular menstrual cycles and elevated levels of male hormones, either detected through laboratory tests or manifested clinically.
Higher androgen levels may lead to symptoms such as excessive hair growth, acne and hair loss, all of which can vary in severity from one woman to another.
Is an Ultrasound Enough to Diagnose PCOS?
Some women with PCOS may show a characteristic ovarian appearance on an ultrasound examination, with numerous small follicles arranged around the outer edge of the ovary.
However, Al-Shahir stressed that an ultrasound alone is not sufficient to confirm the diagnosis.
Diagnosis is generally based on the presence of at least two of three established diagnostic criteria, meaning that the characteristic ultrasound appearance is not necessarily present in every woman with the syndrome.
Treatment Requires Lifestyle Changes
Al-Shahir emphasized that managing PCOS requires a comprehensive approach combining medical treatment with lifestyle modifications.
Medications can help regulate hormones and alleviate certain symptoms, but medication alone is not sufficient to manage the condition in the long term.
She described a healthy lifestyle as the cornerstone of treatment, including maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, reducing stress and anxiety, and getting sufficient sleep.
These measures can contribute to improving metabolic health and controlling symptoms associated with the syndrome.
Why Should PCOS Not Be Ignored?
Al-Shahir urged women not to fear a diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome, while emphasizing that the condition should not be underestimated.
She stressed that obtaining an accurate diagnosis is essential because PCOS can produce symptoms that overlap with those of other medical conditions.
Many women discover they have PCOS only after experiencing difficulties becoming pregnant. However, the condition often begins relatively soon after the first menstrual period, sometimes around the ages of 11 or 12, although its symptoms may become more apparent during a woman’s 20s or 30s.
Early recognition and appropriate management can therefore play an important role in controlling symptoms, addressing associated metabolic problems and supporting reproductive health.
