Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal condition often marked by missed or irregular cycles, can cause serious health issues if undiagnosed.
But Assoc. Prof. Maria Teresa Luna, chair of the UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, noted that PCOS signs are sometimes mistaken for other illnesses, resulting in “overdiagnosis.”
The condition typically presents as irregular menstruation persisting for at least six months, defined by cycles shorter than 24 days or longer than 35.
Cases also show symptoms of hyperandrogenism such as acne and excessive hair growth, and ultrasound scans often show small follicular cysts associated with anovulation, or the failure to ovulate.
“Two of those three should be present in a patient,” Luna told the Varsitarian.
PCOS interferes with the release of eggs during the menstrual cycle.
Often referred to as a “silent disorder,” it has symptoms that overlap with other conditions.
Luna pointed to thyroid dysfunction as the most common mimic, since it also impacts hormones and menstruation. Without proper assessment, women risk being misdiagnosed or untreated.
Globally, PCOS affects an estimated 6-13% of women, yet about 70% remain undiagnosed.
In the Philippines, UK Research Innovation estimates that 4.5 million Filipinas have the condition, though no national prevalence study has been conducted. Many women receive diagnoses only in their 20s, often when they begin trying to conceive.
Misconceptions further blur awareness. Some women attribute irregular cycles to stress from school or work, while others assume not menstruating lets the body “rest” or spares them from monthly discomfort and costs.
“Because there is no pain, they think that they can live with it and it will just pass, and they will have regular menstruation again. I think those are the very reasons why they would not want to consult,” Luna said.
Another misconception is that PCOS only affects overweight women.
“The common thinking then was that it was exclusively found in obese patients. Polycystic ovarian syndrome can be seen both in the obese and lean patients.”
Despite its effects, many women delay gynecological consultations, citing financial concerns, unease with pelvic exams, or the fear that doctors might suspect pregnancy, particularly among younger patients.
While PCOS has no permanent cure, its symptoms can be managed with treatment and lifestyle adjustments.
To regulate periods, improve acne, and limit hair growth, doctors may prescribe contraceptive pills that combine estrogen and progesterone. But Luna cautioned that not all pills work alike.
“There would be just a particular progesterone component of it that can be used for the treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome,” she said.
Healthy habits such as maintaining proper weight, balanced nutrition, and regular exercise are equally important. For women seeking to conceive, ovulation-inducing medications may also be prescribed.
The obstetrician-gynecologist underscored that early consultation is vital to prevent complications such as infertility, insulin resistance, and even endometrial cancer.
September is observed as PCOS Awareness Month. Mary Dawn S. Santos
