“A young girl walks into my clinic. She looks pretty in her yellow chudidar. I compliment her on her dress and she bursts out into tears. She tells me that she cannot walk with her head held up because she has excessive hair over the chin area. She has tried everything but now even the skin over the chin has become dark. I tell her that she may have PCOS – and we run some tests.

Today, after three months of treatments and Laser, she walks into my room again – “I am so happy Doc, look at me” she says. I look at her- yes the transformation is complete. But it is not my Laser which worked its magic, her confidence has transformed her.” – Dr Rasya Dixit

Polycystic ovarian Syndrome, a commonly overlooked condition is becoming more and more common in young women aged 18 to 45. A common condition which can present with irregular cycles, even cycles >35 days, acne, excessive facial hair growth, hair loss and thickening and darkening of skin over the neck and areas around the mouth. PCOS can have one or more of these conditions.

Commonly underreported and not looked for hard enough, because women often present with only one of these symptoms to various specialists like gynaecologists, dermatologists, endocrinologists or diet specialists, this conditions is coming to the forefront due to the changing life styles of women around the world.

The implications of PCOS may affect the long term health and quality of life of women. It is important to treat this condition with good diet and exercise as well as the medications. The syndrome has now gathered the attention of scientific research as well as grabbed public eyeballs by being present in articles in newspapers and other main stream publications.

PCOS is usually treated by a team of physicians – a dermatologist, an endocrinologist, a gynaecologist and diet experts. A healthy lifestyle goes a long way in helping with this condition.

Didn't find what you were looking for? Ask Dr Dixit your question and get answers within a day.

The information provided in Dr. Dixit's answer is for educational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice. The information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultations with a qualified health professional who may be familiar with your individual medical needs.