5 Myths about PCOS that are actually false

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a sex hormone disorder that is common in women of childbearing age. Women with this condition have higher levels of androgens (male hormones). This condition can also increase insulin levels, which is a hormone that regulates blood sugar. Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation circulating about PCOS. What are the myths about PCOS?

Various PCOS disease myths circulating in the community

1. Women with PCOS have cysts on the ovaries

Although the name of the disease refers to the presence of cysts on the ovaries, not all women with PCOS have cysts on their ovaries. Likewise, women who have cysts on their ovaries are not necessarily affected by PCOS.

PCOS occurs due to an imbalance of sex hormones. This can make it difficult for the follicle to release an egg. This disease leads to metabolic disorders that affect reproduction.

2. PCOS women cannot get pregnant

Even though PCOS is one of the main causes of infertility, it does not mean that women with this condition cannot get pregnant and have children. Sex hormone problems do affect the ability of the ovaries to release eggs. Well, this condition can be monitored with a doctor's care.

If you are friends, family, or you are a PCOS patient yourself, don't be discouraged. You can still get pregnant and have children by increasing fertility. The key is to change your diet and lifestyle to be healthier, increase physical activity to maintain weight, and follow the drug therapy prescribed by your doctor.

3. Irregular menstrual cycle, which means you have PCOS

There are many factors that cause menstrual cycles to be irregular. Not only because you have higher male sex hormones, for example taking certain drugs, stress, or other diseases.

If you have a menstrual cycle that is not smooth, you should consult a doctor. You may need to undergo medical tests to get a precise diagnosis of your bad menstrual cycle. Do not assume that this condition is caused by PCOS.

4. Women with PCOS cannot lose weight

Obesity is indeed a sign and symptom of PCOS. However, you need to remember that not all women experience the same symptoms. This means that not all obese women have PCOS.

Well, many PCOS patients who have symptoms of obesity also say they can't lose weight. This is not true. PCOS patients can lose weight with more effort. This is because the excess body weight is affected by a disturbed body metabolism.

The combination of physical activity with diet can help patients to lose weight. Consider working with your doctor to make a weight loss program work.

5. Irregular menstrual cycles due to PCOS can only be treated with birth control pills

Source: LA Times

Birth control pills can indeed treat irregular menstruation. However, this certainly goes against PCOS women who are planning a pregnancy, right? Moreover, long-term use of birth control pills can increase the risk of blood clots, increase cholesterol, and interfere with the absorption of vitamin B12.

Apart from medication, overcoming irregular menstrual cycles can be done by reducing stress, increasing physical activity, and adopting an anti-inflammatory diet.