Disease Education Hub
PCOS Health Hub
Understand Polycystic Ovary Syndrome — its symptoms, how it affects weight, fertility and insulin, and the tests that help you take control of your hormonal health.
What is PCOS?
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age. It involves an imbalance of reproductive hormones, which can disrupt the menstrual cycle, raise male hormone (androgen) levels, and cause small fluid-filled sacs (follicles) to develop in the ovaries.
PCOS affects far more than just periods — it is closely linked to insulin resistance, weight gain, fertility challenges and a higher long-term risk of diabetes and heart disease. The encouraging news is that with early diagnosis and the right management, PCOS can be controlled effectively, helping you feel better and protect your future health.
Common Symptoms of PCOS
- ✓Irregular, delayed or missed periods
- ✓Weight gain and difficulty losing weight
- ✓Acne and oily skin
- ✓Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism)
- ✓Hair thinning or hair fall on the scalp
- ✓Dark patches on the neck or skin folds
- ✓Difficulty conceiving
- ✓Mood changes and fatigue
PCOS, Weight, Fertility & Insulin
Weight gain: PCOS makes weight gain easier and weight loss harder, largely because of insulin resistance. Managing insulin levels is often the key to managing weight in PCOS.
Fertility: Because PCOS disrupts ovulation, it is a leading cause of infertility. However, with proper diagnosis and treatment, many women with PCOS conceive successfully.
Insulin resistance: This is a central feature of PCOS, where the body responds poorly to insulin. It worsens hormonal imbalance and raises the risk of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, making insulin and blood sugar testing important.
Recommended PCOS Tests
LH (Luteinising Hormone)
Often elevated in PCOS
FSH
Assesses LH/FSH ratio
AMH
Ovarian reserve marker
Prolactin
Rules out other causes
Testosterone
Androgen level assessment
Fasting Insulin
Detects insulin resistance
HbA1c
Screens for prediabetes
Thyroid Profile
Excludes thyroid causes
Ultrasound Pelvis
Checks ovarian cysts
When to Get Tested
- ✓Your periods are irregular, delayed or absent
- ✓You experience unexplained weight gain
- ✓You have persistent acne or excess facial/body hair
- ✓You are struggling to conceive
- ✓You have a family history of PCOS or diabetes
- ✓You notice dark patches on your skin (a sign of insulin resistance)
How Focus Diagnostics Can Help
Focus Diagnostics offers a comprehensive PCOS profile across its Hyderabad centres, combining hormonal tests (LH, FSH, testosterone, AMH, prolactin), insulin and HbA1c, thyroid testing and pelvic ultrasound — everything needed for an accurate evaluation. With free home sample collection for blood tests, getting assessed is convenient and stress-free.
Get Your PCOS Evaluation
Early diagnosis helps you manage PCOS and protect your fertility and long-term health. Book your PCOS profile at Focus Diagnostics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PCOS?▼
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is a common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age. It involves a hormonal imbalance that can cause irregular periods, excess male hormones (androgens), and small cysts on the ovaries, affecting menstruation, fertility and metabolism.
What are the main symptoms of PCOS?▼
The main symptoms include irregular or missed periods, weight gain, acne, excess facial or body hair, scalp hair thinning, dark skin patches and difficulty conceiving. Symptoms vary from woman to woman.
How is PCOS diagnosed?▼
PCOS is diagnosed using a combination of hormonal blood tests (LH, FSH, testosterone, AMH, prolactin), insulin and blood sugar tests, and a pelvic ultrasound to check the ovaries. Diagnosis is based on symptoms plus test findings.
Can PCOS cause weight gain?▼
Yes. PCOS is closely linked to insulin resistance, which makes it easier to gain weight (especially around the abdomen) and harder to lose it. Managing insulin resistance through diet, exercise and treatment helps with weight control.
Does PCOS affect fertility?▼
PCOS is one of the most common causes of infertility because it disrupts ovulation. However, with proper diagnosis and management — including lifestyle changes and medical treatment — many women with PCOS conceive successfully.
What is insulin resistance and how is it linked to PCOS?▼
Insulin resistance means the body's cells respond poorly to insulin, leading to higher insulin and blood sugar levels. It is a key driver of PCOS, worsening hormonal imbalance and weight gain. Fasting Insulin and HbA1c tests help detect it.
Why is AMH tested in PCOS?▼
AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) reflects the number of follicles in the ovaries and is often elevated in PCOS. It helps assess ovarian reserve and supports the diagnosis alongside other hormonal tests.
Can PCOS be cured?▼
PCOS cannot be permanently cured, but it can be effectively managed. With the right combination of lifestyle changes, diet, exercise and medical treatment, symptoms can be controlled and fertility improved. Regular monitoring is key.
What lifestyle changes help with PCOS?▼
A balanced, low-glycaemic diet, regular exercise, weight management, good sleep and stress reduction all help manage PCOS by improving insulin sensitivity and hormonal balance. Your doctor may also recommend medication.
Where can I get PCOS tests in Hyderabad?▼
Focus Diagnostics offers a complete PCOS profile including hormonal tests, insulin, HbA1c, thyroid and pelvic ultrasound across its Hyderabad centres. Call 91213 77123 or book on WhatsApp.
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