Understanding the Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

28. Oktober 2025

2 Min. Lesezeit

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Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by a disrupted menstrual cycle, weight gain, increased facial and body hair, acne, and absent or infrequent ovulation.

Wichtigste Erkenntnisse

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by a disrupted menstrual cycle, weight gain, increased facial and body hair, acne, and absent or infrequent ovulation.
Attack on all fronts
Symptoms to look for

Für wen das ist

Für alle, die Gesundheit von Frauen über gynäkologie, Frauengesundheit erkunden.

Warum es wichtig ist

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Artikelautor

Dr. Helen

Gynäkologin/Gynäkologe

Attack on all fronts

PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age, in which numerous follicular cysts (small accumulations of fluid) are formed in the ovaries. This syndrome is impossible to ignore, as it affects the ability to have children and the appearance of a woman. If untreated, it can lead to serious issues such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, endometrial cancer, apnea, and depression.

Symptoms to look for

The first symptoms of PCOS often develop during puberty with the onset of the first menstruation. Sometimes the syndrome manifests itself later — for example, as a result of significant weight gain. Since the problem is related to hormonal imbalance — an excess production of the male hormone androgens — the symptoms of the disease are often seen in the face. PCOS brings out male features, hair appears on the body and face, hair falls out of the head, and skin deteriorates. If you have any of these symptoms, consult your doctor.

The doctor may make a diagnosis based on examination of the patient, complaints, laboratory, and ultrasound diagnostics. Blood tests will be required to find out the total levels of male sex hormones, insulin, glucose, cholesterol, and luteinizing hormone. The doctor will try to rule out hypothyroidism, hyperprolactinemia, hyperandrogenism of adrenal genesis, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, liver disorders, and gallbladder function disorders. Only by excluding these factors can a definitive diagnosis be made.

How can medicine help?

It is impossible to cure PCOS completely, but it is possible to stop its manifestations and let a woman become a mother. Treatment, including medication, is aimed at restoring hormonal balance and menstrual cycle, weight loss, and combatting external symptoms. If treatment does not lead to pregnancy, surgery is sometimes required.

What can you do to fight against PCOS?

Increasing physical activity and following a balanced diet can help fight PCOS. Reduce the intake of sugars, increase the amount of fiber, introduce healthy fats into the diet (avocados, olive oil, nuts, fish), include cruciferous vegetables, and avoid caffeine in the afternoon. It is also important to get enough sleep and manage stress (see a psychologist, do meditation, take time for daily walks).

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