PCOS
Irregular menstruation, acne, weight gain — Managing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
If your period is frequently delayed,
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age. It can cause irregular periods, missed periods for several months, and may be accompanied by acne, hirsutism (excess hair growth), and weight gain.
- If you have fewer than 8 menstrual cycles per year or haven't had a period for more than 3 months, consider seeing a gynecologist.
- Diagnosis is made through ultrasound and hormone blood tests.
- It's easy to be scared by the phrase "many cysts on the ovaries," but these are not tumors; they are small follicles.
Source: 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 · as of 2026-08-13
The key to management is a long-term perspective.
- In cases where weight has increased, even a reduction of only 5-10% can often restore ovulation and menstruation.
- If periods are infrequent for a long time, the uterine lining can thicken, which can cause problems, so treatment to regulate the cycle with birth control pills is commonly performed.
- When pregnancy is desired, ovulation induction therapy is possible.
- It is closely related to insulin resistance, leading to a higher risk of diabetes in the long term – be sure to check your blood sugar regularly.
Frequently asked questions
Is it difficult to get pregnant if you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?
Irregular ovulation can delay natural conception, but pregnancy is often achieved through lifestyle improvements and ovulation induction therapy. Instead of worrying about infertility prematurely, consult with an obstetrician and gynecologist when you are planning to conceive.
Is it okay to take birth control pills for a long time?
In the case of PCOS, birth control pills are not used for contraception but as a treatment to regulate hormone balance and protect the uterine lining. Doctors evaluate factors such as smoking habits and the risk of blood clots before prescribing them, and long-term use is generally possible with proper management.
Sources for this page
· 질병관리청 국가건강정보포털 (as of 2026-08-13)Last checked: 2026년 8월 13일
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