September every year is dedicated to creating awareness of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), a leading cause of female infertility. Conversations are held to highlight the prevalence of PCOS, diverse manifestations, potential health implications, and support for women who are affected to manage the symptoms and avoid complications into other life-threatening diseases.

Women Radio spoke to Dr. Abosede Lewu, chief medical director of ORB Women’s Clinic on RadioDoctor, a programme dedicated to providing free medical consultation on radio.

According to Dr. Lewu, PCOS affects one in ten women and is characterized by multiple cysts in the ovaries that produce various hormones at abnormal levels, resulting in different presentations in individuals. Lewu said symptoms can include irregular periods, difficulty getting pregnant, acne, male-pattern hair growth (facial, chin, navel, chest), sudden weight gain, hair loss, absence or infrequent menstruation. Lewu cautioned against self-diagnosis, urging women to seek proper consultation with specialists for accurate assessment of PCOS and for non-pharmacological approaches weight loss and dietary changes are the initial steps to manage PCOS. On the use of birth control pills in managing PCOS symptoms, Lewu said “the pills address specific symptoms like regulating periods and hair growth patterns and must be used with the prescription and directives of a medical practitioner to avoid drug abuse and further complications”

Lewu highlighted that women with PCOS face increased risks of hypertension, diabetes, heart-related issues, cholesterol disorders, miscarriages, and endometrial hyperplasia, which increases the risk of endometrial cancer as the woman grows older. She emphasised the need for specialist care, regular gynecology and general check-ups for early detection even in the absence of reproductive health-related symptoms of PCOS or concerns about fertility.

RadioDoctor on Women Radio is a free health consultation programme where real doctors advise real people with support from ACT Foundation