Sources across the web show that one of the most common myths about Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is that it is a rare condition, affecting only overweight women.

However, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), PCOS is a common hormonal condition that affects women of reproductive age (15-49 years old). This condition affects an estimated 6–13 percent of women, globally. Of these cases, up to 70 percent are undiagnosed.

In the Philippines, around 4.5 million Filipinas are living with PCOS, according the UK Research Innovation, indicating that this condition is prevalent among women.

With the increasing number of PCOS cases in the country, an expert from Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital in Manila refuted some of the common myths about PCOS through an awareness seminar conducted in celebration of National Women’s Month, at the DOST-Science and Technology Information Institute (DOST-STII) on March 19, 2025.

Among the common misconceptions associated with PCOS is that it only affects fertility when in fact, it also affects metabolism and is considered a long-term condition, according to an expert.

 “Ano ba ang gamot sa PCOS? No cure. Alam niyo po ba na kapag kayo ay na-diagnose with PCOS, panghabambuhay na sakit na ito? Ibig sabihin, we are just correcting the function and actions of the hormones,” said Medical Specialist III Dr. Leedah Ranola-Nisperos.

“Early diagnosis and proactive management can help individuals with PCOS lead healthy and fulfilling lives”, she added.

While the root cause of PCOS is still unknown, Dr. Nisperos said that it is commonly linked to a combination of genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle factors that contribute to its development.

Dr. Nisperos explained that PCOS often runs in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition. Also, she added that many individuals with this condition have insulin resistance, where the body’s cells do not respond well to insulin. This causes the body to produce more insulin, which can lead to higher levels of androgens.

“Androgens are male hormones that eventually convert into estrogens, which is a female hormone. The more you have androgens, the more you will have estrogens which is a problem because you will have difficulty menstruating and will gain weight”, Dr. Nisperos explained.

She said some of the most common symptoms of PCOS include irregular periods, difficulty getting pregnant, weight gain, thinning of hair, acne, and mood disorders.

If left unaddressed, these symptoms can lead to several complications like infertility, endometrial cancer, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, and depression or anxiety, thus early detection is crucial.

Another misconception about PCOS is that women can only have it with the presence of ovarian cysts. However, Dr. Nisperos explained that not all women with PCOS had ovarian cysts. She added that these visible lumps surrounding the ovaries are actually egg cells that have not developed.

Moreover, since obesity is a common manifestation in people living with PCOS, some may assume that losing weight can cure PCOS. However, Nisperos said that it can only help manage the symptoms, but it does not eliminate the condition.

“Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a complex and common hormonal disorder with a wide range of symptoms and potential complications. While it cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes, medications, and appropriate medical interventions,” Dr. Nisperos said.

Citing an example, Dr. Nisperos said it is important to consider the intake of balanced low-glycemic foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Regular exercise and adequate sleep also help with weight management and improvement of hormone balance respectively.

Recognizing the importance of raising awareness of certain diseases like PCOS, this seminar aimed to empower women and provide them with the knowledge and support they will need in order to help themselves and also the people around them.  (By Claire Bernadette A. Mondares, DOST-STII)

Lady Shayne Morales, Nurse I of the DOST-STII (left), and Arlene E. Centeno, Chief of the Financial and Administrative Division of the DOST-STII (right), present a plaque of appreciation to Dr. Leedah Ranola-Nisperos (center) for serving as the resource person for the seminar titled “Understanding and Managing PCOS and Endometriosis Awareness Seminar”, held on March 19, 2025, at DOST-STII. (Photo by Xyrus Ivan de Gracia, DOST-STII)