PCOS is a lifelong condition.

While theres currently no cure for PCOS, treatments can help people manage symptoms and find relief.

[15]

Theres no single test to diagnose PCOS.

What Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

The rightPCOS treatment methodfor you will depend on your symptoms and whether youre planning to become pregnant.

For many women, infertility is one of the most distressing complications of PCOS.

[18]

If you are overweight or have obesity, losing weight may also help improve your fertility.

Elise-M-Brett-bio

If medications are unsuccessful, a doctor may recommendin vitro fertilization, or IVF.

Surgery

Surgery to treat PCOS is rarely used.

Prevention of PCOS

PCOS cant be prevented, but you might manage your symptoms and prevent complications.

Article image

This can help you maintain or lose weight, balance your blood sugar, and lower inflammation levels.

Physical Activity

Getting more exercise can also improve symptoms of PCOS and help with weight loss.

This can help prevent complications.

Article image

Risks of PCOS-related complications, such as diabetes and heart attacks, can also increase with age.

However, there are ways to treat fertility issues, and many women with PCOS have healthy pregnancies.

[25]

Its important to attend your yearly checkups and undergo any screenings your doctor recommends.

Article image

Research and Statistics: How Common Is PCOS?

PCOS is related to several conditions, especially diabetes and obesity.

Women with obesity and key in 2 diabetes are more likely to develop PCOS, and vice versa.

Article image

you’re free to even find tools for financial resources to help you build your family.

She was previously an assistant editor atPreventionwhere she wrote monthly science-based beauty news items and feature stories.

Jamie Elmer is the editorial projects manager at Everyday Health.

Article image

She has over 10 years of experience as a writer and copy editor.

Health content, especially mental health, is her passion.

She strives to break down stigma and explain complicated health information in plain, accessible ways.

Article image

Jamie has written for Healthline, Psych Central, and Bezzy Depression, among other outlets.

She lives in California with her husband and their dog, Chicken Nugget.

Article image

Article image

Article image

Article image

Article image

Article image

Article image