BY ANJALI SINGH

Are you wondering what Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is?  Pesky aunty’s diagnosing you with PCOS out of the blue ? Irregular periods, excessive hair fall , acne or hyperpigmentation making you think of PCOS ?

All we hear is a whole lot of doubts with no definitive answers. But fret not, help is on the way !

What Is PCOS

Medicine.net defines this hormonal imbalance as , “a disorder of chronically abnormal ovarian function and hyperandrogenism (abnormally elevated androgen levels)” . It is the most common disorder in women of reproductive age. However, despite it being common there is a lot of misinformation.

Below are the common myths and misconceptions we’re debunking just for you !

Myth 1 :

You Have Ovarian Cysts If You’re Diagnosed With PCOS

The name itself is controversial. The name Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a misnomer and we mean it. Just because you are diagnosed with PCOS it does not mean your ovaries have cysts. We wonder why they named it this in the first place.

Myth 2 :

Losing Weight Is A Way To Get Rid of PCOS

We all have received this advice at least once in life. Women of color are often told to get in the right shape to stay fit but many are still unaware of the fact that PCOS is not curable. Weight loss will not help you to get rid of PCOS. All it does is help you lower symptoms like PMS and hirsutism ( facial hair growth). This syndrome is all up for management and never ready to leave. Plus reducing only 5 per cent of your current weight is all you need. No brainer you would assume right ?

Myth 3 :

Only Overweight Women Are Prone to PCOS

This is probably the most ridiculous of all myths. But here we are !

Most PCOS AND PCOD cases are indeed witnessed in overweight or obese women.  However, PCOS doesn’t discriminate so it doesn’t matter what shape or size you’ve, PCOS can still knock at your door. All you need to do is get into the habit of eating healthy and exercising.

Myth 4 :

PCOS Won’t Let You Get Pregnant

Lets get straight to the point ! THIS IS SO UNTRUE !

We live in an age where if both your fallopian tubes are closed, there is still a way. That being said, it sure does make your TTC journey a tad bit complicated. But that is as far as it goes. If you are trying to conceive naturally for one year and no luck it’s time to see a specialist. Just contact your fertility specialist near you.

Myth 5 :

PCOS Is Limited To Women Only

Women are not the only ones who experience PCOS. There are many trans, intersex, and non-binary people who deal with PCOS. Having issues relating to gendered diseases without associations to your own identity may cause people to opt-out of seeking medical attention.

Hopefully, once you finished reading this you will feel way better !