Polycystic Ovary Syndrome affects many Filipina women but often goes undiagnosed. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis, and management strategies for this hormonal condition.
PCOS: The Hidden Hormonal Condition Affecting Filipina Women
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age, yet it remains widely underdiagnosed and misunderstood. Affecting an estimated 5-10% of women globally—potentially over 5 million Filipinas—PCOS is far more than a reproductive issue. It's a metabolic condition that can impact nearly every aspect of a woman's health.
Many women with PCOS spend years struggling with symptoms before receiving a diagnosis. The condition can cause irregular periods, infertility, weight gain, excess hair growth, acne, and significantly increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease. Understanding PCOS is the first step toward taking control of your health.
"PCOS affects every woman differently, which is why it's often missed or misdiagnosed. If you have irregular periods combined with weight issues, acne, or excess hair growth, ask your doctor about PCOS testing. Early diagnosis means earlier treatment and better outcomes." — Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society
What is PCOS?
Despite its name, polycystic ovary syndrome isn't actually about cysts. The "cysts" seen on ultrasound are actually immature follicles—tiny sacs containing eggs that haven't developed properly due to hormonal imbalances.
PCOS involves a complex interplay of hormonal and metabolic abnormalities:
- Elevated androgens: Higher-than-normal levels of "male" hormones like testosterone
- Insulin resistance: The body's cells don't respond well to insulin, leading to higher insulin levels
- Irregular ovulation: Eggs aren't released regularly, causing menstrual irregularities and fertility issues
- Chronic low-grade inflammation: Contributes to various symptoms and long-term health risks
📊 Diagnostic Criteria (Rotterdam Criteria)
PCOS is diagnosed when at least 2 of 3 criteria are present:
- 1. Irregular or absent periods: Fewer than 8 periods per year, or cycles longer than 35 days
- 2. Signs of excess androgens: Either physical signs (hirsutism, acne) or elevated androgen levels in blood tests
- 3. Polycystic ovaries on ultrasound: 12 or more follicles in each ovary, or ovarian volume greater than 10mL
Other conditions with similar symptoms must be ruled out.
Recognizing PCOS Symptoms
PCOS symptoms typically begin around puberty with the first menstrual period, but some women don't develop symptoms until later—often after significant weight gain.
Menstrual and Reproductive Symptoms
- Irregular periods: Infrequent, unpredictable, or absent menstruation
- Heavy bleeding: When periods do occur, they may be heavier than normal
- Difficulty getting pregnant: PCOS is a leading cause of infertility due to irregular ovulation
- Multiple miscarriages: Higher miscarriage risk in some women with PCOS
Androgen-Related Symptoms
- Hirsutism: Excess hair growth on face, chest, back, or buttocks
- Acne: Often severe and persistent, especially along the jawline
- Male-pattern hair loss: Thinning hair on the scalp
- Oily skin
Metabolic Symptoms
- Weight gain: Especially around the midsection (apple-shaped body)
- Difficulty losing weight: Despite diet and exercise efforts
- Acanthosis nigricans: Dark, velvety skin patches on neck, armpits, groin, under breasts
- Skin tags: Small flesh-colored growths
Other Symptoms
- Fatigue: Chronic tiredness
- Mood changes: Depression, anxiety, mood swings
- Sleep problems: Including sleep apnea
- Headaches
Long-Term Health Risks
PCOS isn't just about fertility—it significantly increases the risk of several serious health conditions:
- Type 2 diabetes: More than 50% of women with PCOS develop diabetes or pre-diabetes by age 40
- Cardiovascular disease: Higher risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and abnormal cholesterol
- Endometrial cancer: Irregular periods mean the uterine lining builds up, increasing cancer risk
- Gestational diabetes and pregnancy complications: Higher risk during pregnancy
- Sleep apnea: Especially in overweight women with PCOS
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- Mental health conditions: Higher rates of depression and anxiety
⚠️ Don't Ignore Irregular Periods
Many women dismiss irregular periods as "just their body." But consistently irregular periods deserve medical evaluation. Beyond PCOS, irregular periods can signal thyroid problems, premature ovarian failure, or other hormonal issues—all of which are treatable.
Getting Diagnosed
Tests Your Doctor May Order
- Blood tests: Hormone levels (testosterone, LH, FSH, estrogen), glucose, insulin, lipid panel, thyroid function
- Pelvic ultrasound: To visualize ovaries and check for polycystic appearance
- Physical examination: Checking for signs of excess androgen, acanthosis nigricans, weight distribution
Managing PCOS: A Comprehensive Approach
While PCOS can't be cured, it can be effectively managed through lifestyle modifications and, when needed, medications.
Lifestyle Changes: The Foundation of Treatment
✅ Lifestyle Strategies That Work
- Weight management: Even 5-10% weight loss can restore regular periods and improve symptoms
- Low-glycemic diet: Focus on whole grains, vegetables, lean protein; limit refined carbs and sugar
- Regular exercise: 150+ minutes per week of moderate activity; improves insulin sensitivity
- Strength training: Builds muscle, which helps with insulin resistance
- Adequate sleep: 7-9 hours; poor sleep worsens insulin resistance
- Stress management: High cortisol worsens hormonal imbalance
Medical Treatments
- Combined oral contraceptives: Regulate periods, reduce androgen levels, improve acne and hirsutism
- Metformin: Improves insulin sensitivity; may help with weight loss and restore ovulation
- Anti-androgens: Spironolactone for excess hair growth and acne
- Fertility treatments: Clomiphene, letrozole, or gonadotropins to induce ovulation
- Progestins: To induce regular periods and prevent endometrial buildup
Cosmetic Treatments for Symptoms
- Laser hair removal: For excess facial and body hair
- Electrolysis: Permanent hair removal
- Acne treatments: Topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, prescription medications
PCOS and Fertility
Many women with PCOS successfully conceive with proper management. Options include:
- Lifestyle modifications (weight loss often restores ovulation)
- Ovulation-inducing medications
- Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
- In vitro fertilization (IVF)
If you're trying to conceive and have PCOS, work with a reproductive endocrinologist or OB-GYN who specializes in infertility.
"PCOS doesn't mean you can't have children. With proper management, most women with PCOS can achieve pregnancy. The key is starting treatment early and working with healthcare providers who understand the condition." — Dr. Lisa Gonzales, OB-Gynecologist
Living Well with PCOS
PCOS is a lifelong condition, but with proper management, you can minimize symptoms, reduce health risks, and live a full, healthy life. Connect with other women with PCOS through support groups—sharing experiences and tips can make a real difference.
Your hormones don't have to control your life. With knowledge, proper treatment, and self-care, you can take charge of your PCOS.
