(AP / Jul 21) : According to a study, 25% of women suffer from PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), making it a highly prevalent disorder, especially amongst women of reproductive age. 
The cause of PCOS isn’t well understood, but there is a connection between PCOS and fast-paced urban life, defined by erratic eating habits, irregular sleep cycles, lack of work-life balance and higher stress levels with little or no physical activity. This tends to cause hormonal imbalances which has led to many women developing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted lifestyles even further and has increased the chances of more women struggling with PCOS in the near future. 
“Women tend to discover that they have PCOS in their 20s and 30s when they have trouble getting pregnant and visit their doctor. But PCOS has other symptoms like irregular periods, abnormal hair growth and acne which tend to get overlooked. So I advise getting screened regularly and working with a care team of a nutritionist, fitness coach and doctor to get on a personalized treatment plan”, said Dr Poonam Sharma, Resident Physician, HealthifyMe.
If you are someone who has been diagnosed with this condition, it’s important to first understand what it really means and then be aware of ways you can overturn this into an opportunity to build a fitter and healthier life. 
So, what causes PCOS? 
In layman’s terms, affected women have multiple cysts that cause the ovaries to become enlarged. These cysts are caused because the ovaries develop numerous small collections of follicles and fail to release eggs regularly. It leads to infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods or excess male hormone (androgen) levels. 
The result is being faced with acne, extra facial and body hair, irregular periods, mood swings and fertility issues etc. Early diagnosis of PCOS is crucial as it has also been linked to increased health risks like developing heart diseases, weight gain, hormonal infertility, cholesterol problems, high blood pressure, insulin resistance and even diabetes. In worst cases, it can also increase the risk of developing endometrial cancer. However, the silver lining is that PCOS can be managed/controlled easily by following a strictly healthy lifestyle. 
We asked Dr Poonam to educate us on some of the common myths about PCOS. Here’s what she had to say. 
What are some of the myths associated with PCOS? 
1. Irregular periods means that you have PCOS
No, there could be several reasons for irregular periods, one of them being PCOS. If your cycle is less than 22 days or greater than 34 days long frequently, it is the right step to consult a gynaecologist instead of speculating and self-diagnosing. 
2. Only obese women get PCOS
This is a misconception based on stereotypes, that only overweight women are susceptible to this problem. Research says that PCOS can occur both in obese and non-obese women. 
3. PCOS affects pregnancy
If you have PCOS and want to start a family, do not get discouraged. Working with a gynaecologist and fertility expert can help you get on the right track. 
4. Birth control pills can control PCOS
Every woman with this condition has a different impact on her body. For some, it could be facial hair growth, for others, it could be hair fall or acne. This also means not every woman who has PCOS needs a birth control pill to control this. For instance, if you are looking to have a baby, birth control pills are not the way to tackle PCOS. 
However, according to international studies and research over the years, one treatment that applies to all women undergoing PCOS is to address their hormonal health more holistically with lifestyle measures. For instance, practising a healthy routine with adequate physical activity, the right nutrition, balanced diet, meditation/yoga, and following a healthy sleep pattern are some ways you can rise above this problem. 
But often, these steps are easier said than done. If you need an overview and help on your PCOS journey, HealthifyMe’s PCOS plan with coach and doctor support is what you should consider. It can help you manage this condition successfully, reduce the symptoms you face and even minimize the need for medication under proper care and attention. 
“Chronic inflammation in the body triggers ovaries to produce more testosterone. Make changes to your diet to reduce inflammatory foods (such as sugar and processed foods) and incorporate more anti-inflammatory foods, such as foods high in Omega-3s (salmon, walnuts, flaxseeds), and 8-10 servings a day of fresh fruits and vegetables. To control PCOS symptoms, work with a qualified nutrition expert who can make specific recommendations based on your daily routine and preferences,” says Alpa Momaya, Senior Nutritionist,

19-year-old Navyashree’s story is an inspiring one. Getting diagnosed with PCOS at the age of 14 came as shocking news to her. “My first period went on for 24 days. By the time I was diagnosed with PCOS, I had gained several kilos that dented my self-esteem. I also started developing anxiety issues. But, my life changed the day I saw an ad on YouTube and learnt about HealthifyMe,” she shares. 

“Fed up of trying things myself, I took HealthifyMe’s PCOD Plus plan for three months and I am proud to say it was the best decision I have ever made. Coaches at HealthifyMe heard me out, they guided me with utmost compassion, encouraged me to adopt healthier food habits and motivated me even on my worst days! Their scientific plans have today helped me lose 18 kgs and up to 5 inches from my belly!” she exclaims. Navyashree does not have heavy menstruation and is happy with reduced skin and hair issues. “The best part is even my anxiety is better. I still have my days, but they are far fewer than before.” 
So, while medical science may not have found any cure for PCOS yet, with the right care and attention, like Navyashree, it’s possible for you too to bring your PCOS under control. All you need to do is take your first steps towards living a happier, healthier and fitter life with PCOS under the guidance of HealthifyMe’s coaches and doctors.