PCOS is a very common health issue among young women in today’s time. Many ignore its early signs-like irregular periods, acne, or unwanted facial hair-thinking it’s all just normal hormonal changes. But do you know how the risks of untreated PCOS go far beyond these symptoms? Long-term, it silently impacts your fertility, heart health, and hormonal balance. According to Dr Parima Dixit, a gynaecologist with extensive experience, even minor delays in diagnosis or treatment can sometimes lead to serious health problems.
Let’s explain in simple terms—what can happen if PCOS is left untreated.
What is PCOS and why does it happen?
PCOS is an endocrine condition wherein the ovaries produce more androgens, or male hormones, than usual.This leads to a situation where ovulation becomes irregular and the body also becomes resistant to insulin.
Result? Periods are irregular, weight is lost, acne occurs and fertility is affected.
But the good news is – if there is timely diagnosis and treatment, it is absolutely possible to manage PCOS.
Major Health Risks of Untreated PCOS
These are the risks of untreated PCOS:
1.Fertility and Ovulation Problems
In patients with PCOS, there is no regular ovulation; hence, getting pregnant becomes difficult.Your menstrual cycle may be unpredictable, and it takes time to conceive.But early diagnosis and proper treatment can vastly improve the chances of pregnancy.
Tips: If your period doesn’t come for 2–3 months, don’t delay—be sure to consult a gynecologist.
2.Type 2 Diabetes and Insulin Resistance
Insulin resistance is very common with PCOS—meaning the body can’t use insulin effectively.
This increases blood sugar and can lead to Type 2 Diabetes in the long term.
3.Heart Disease and Blood Pressure Issues
With PCOS, cholesterol and blood pressure both start to rise.
All of these factors increase the risk of heart disease, even in young women.
It is very important to check your lipid profile and blood pressure periodically.
4.Risk of Endometrial Cancer
If periods are not regular, the lining of the uterus does not shed every month.
This thickening of the lining—endometrial hyperplasia—can increase the risk of endometrial cancer in the future.
Maintaining regular cycles and getting periodic scans is essential for PCOS patients.
5.Weight Gain and Metabolic Syndrome
Weight gain, especially around the tummy area, is common with untreated PCOS.
This condition progresses to metabolic syndrome, which includes diabetes, BP, and high cholesterol.
By making some lifestyle changes, you can easily break this cycle.
6.Sleep Apnea and Tiredness (Fatigue)
Overweight individuals with PCOS may develop sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep.
It causes fatigue, a general lack of energy, and mood swings.
With weight control and regular exercise, this problem comes under control.
7.Stress, Anxiety and Depression
Hormonal imbalance affects not only the body but also the emotions.
Women suffering from PCOS also have to face anxiety, depression, and low confidence.
Supportive environment, counselling, and positive routines are very important for mental health.
How to avoid risks – PCOS management tips
The best way to manage PCOS is an early diagnosis and regular care in terms of lifestyle.
- Balanced diet: Include fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- EXERCISE Regular exercise: daily walk or do yoga for 30 minutes.
- Stress control: Meditation, deep breathing, and maintaining hobby time.
- Hydration: Detox your body with water and herbal drinks.
- Sleep: 7–8 hours of proper sleep daily.
Dr. Parima Dixit makes a personalized PCOS management plan for the patient that also includes medicine, lifestyle, and fertility support.
When should I consult Gynecologist?
If you have these symptoms, do not ignore them: Periods are irregular or missing. Weight keeps on increasing continuously. Acne, oily skin, or hair thinning Problem in conception Complications from PCOS can only be prevented if one consults early.
Expert Suggestion by Dr. Parima Dixit “PCOS is manageable, but complications increase by ignoring it. Early diagnosis and regular treatment can help you regain.
Read More
- Normal Duration of a Menstrual Cycle
- First Trimester Pregnancy Care Tips
- Common Signs of Hormonal Imbalance in Women
What is PCOS?
PCOS or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a hormonal disorder that results in the ovaries producing excessive male hormones, known as androgens. Further, it leads to irregular ovulation, late periods, and symptoms such as acne and unwanted facial hair
Does PCOS make it difficult to get pregnant?
Yes, ovulation is not regular in PCOS, which can make conceiving a little difficult.
But pregnancy is absolutely possible with timely diagnosis and right treatment.
According to Dr. Parima Dixit, individualized treatment and lifestyle management improve the fertility of an individual.
Does untreated PCOS increase the risk of diabetes or heart disease?
Of course. Untreated PCOS can lead to insulin resistance, which can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Therefore, regular check-ups of blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol are very important.
Does PCOS also carry a risk from cancer?
Yes, if periods are not regular, the lining of the uterus (endometrium) is not shed every month.
It tends to thicken, which increases the risk of endometrial cancer.
This risk can be kept under control with regular ultrasound and treatment.
Conclusion
It is essential to understand the possible complications of untreated PCOS as a protective measure for future health. A minor hormonal issue could further complicate one’s reproductive health and weight management issues, sometimes even affecting heart health. The good news is that with timely diagnosis, simple lifestyle modifications, and adequate care by a physician, it is very manageable. So, do not wait until your symptoms worsen but immediately take charge of your health. Consult a gynecologist and make correct choices to move toward a happier and healthier future.
